The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT) is partnering with B2B fashion title Drapers on a Covid-19 appeal to raise £60,000 to support families in the UK fashion and textile industry.

For over 150 years, FTCT has provided financial support to families in the UK fashion and textile industry. From retail, manufacture and design, to distribution, laundry services, textile processing and more; hundreds of parents across the industry rely on FTCT grants to help provide essential items for their children.

FTCT can support those who work across the entire UK fashion and textile sector. This includes retail, but also the design, textile, manufacturing and distribution of childrenswear.

However, FTCT’s grant funds have nearly depleted. Furthermore, it is not eligible for the government support package announced earlier this month. Despite the vital service it provides, the government package is only available to charities offering key services and frontline community support.

In light of this, FTCT has launched a charity appeal in partnership with Drapers magazine. Funds will ensure many more children can have their basic needs met during this challenging time.

In the last three weeks, applications for FTCT grants have tripled, with requests including clothing, bedding and shoes.

For children with additional needs, parents are also requesting sensory items and specialist equipment whilst normal support services are closed.

Commenting on the Covid-19 appeal is Anna Pangbourne, director of FTCT. “Many of the parents we are speaking to simply aren’t eligible for the government schemes available. For families used to living month to month, they can’t afford the shortfall left by furlough pay or the wait for Universal Credit. Our grants can act as a safety net during this unpredictable time.”

For further information and to donate to the Drapers x FTCT Covid-19 Appeal, please click here.