Fashion & Textile Children's Trust

FTCT funds essential items for children and young people across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Supported items include beds, school uniforms, clothing, mobility equipment, sensory toys, therapies, educational devices, and household appliances. The Trust prioritises applicants who would otherwise have no other trade organisations for financial support. Grants are intended to cover specific needs arising from hardship such as job loss, ill health, or bereavement, supplementing rather than replacing statutory aid. Funding is available for children from birth up to age 18, or up to 21 if they remain in further education.

Only individuals and families can apply; FTCT does not fund organisations. Applicants must have a parent or carer who has worked in the British fashion and textile industry for at least one year within the past nine years. The Trust supports children and young people aged 0-18, or up to 21 in further education. Priority is given to those who have no other trade organisations to turn to for financial support. There are no income thresholds or geographic restrictions within the UK.

FTCT does not fund organisations of any type, including registered charities, community groups, schools, or social enterprises. They also exclude general poverty alleviation programmes, youth projects, and any items that are the responsibility of statutory bodies such as local authorities or the NHS. Grants are not available for costs that are already covered by other funding sources.

FTCT provides grants for essential items, paid directly to families or their suppliers. The Trust accepts unsolicited applications and considers each case on its merits. Funding is intended as a last-resort safety net, supplementing any statutory support the family may receive.