The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT) has launched its 2025 Winter Appeal after survey findings revealed industry families are finding winter increasingly difficult to manage.

As the trade charity for UK fashion and textile families, FTCT provides financial support to parents working in the industry during challenging or unexpected life events such as illness, bereavement or relationship breakdown.

FTCT’s 2025 winter survey, which spoke to parents and carers currently receiving or eligible for FTCT support, revealed 74% of parents in these circumstances said their financial situation has worsened over the past year, with many struggling to balance essential household costs alongside the rising price of heating, food and children’s needs.

Commenting is FTCT’s CEO, Anna Pangbourne

“Our 2025 Winter Survey reflects the impossible choices facing families already dealing with life’s toughest challenges. Many face the agonising reality of being unable to buy winter clothing or bedding for their children because they have to prioritise rent or bills. But when we provide grants for essential items, families can focus on heating and food. One grant really can transform a family’s entire winter.”

The FTCT 2025 Winter Appeal runs throughout December and seeks to raise £10,000 to fund essential everyday items to support children whose parents work in fashion and textiles. Leading fashion and textile companies are already backing the appeal, from fashion retailers NEXT and Boden to textile organisations including UKFT and Interweave.

As a small charity, the Trust sends funding directly to families, and just £10 could provide a warm hat and glove set for children living without. More information about the appeal and how to make a donation is available here.