If you are a parent raising a child with a disability or additional needs, an FTCT grant could help with specialist equipment, therapies, sensory toys and more.  

Please read through the information below and on the following pages, to make sure we are the right charity for you.

About our grants

To apply, you must be a parent or carer who works, or has previously worked in the UK fashion and textile industry- for at least one year, within the last nine years. 

Why fashion and textiles? It's because our charity was founded in 1853 by textile merchants, to support the children of UK fashion and textile families who are struggling financially.   

If you are no longer in work, but you or your partner has worked in the fashion and textile industry for more than one year, (within the last 9 years) you can still apply for a grant.

What we mean by fashion and textiles

Fashion and textiles is a broad industry, covering many businesses like those pictured below. To see if you could apply, please check this page for more information about our trade criteria.

Your financial situation

Our grants are here to support families when they are struggling financially and can't afford to buy essential items for all children in the family. 

If you are caring for a child with ill health or additional needs and are unable to afford essential items to support their health or wellbeing, our grants could help.

Our application form does ask for income and expenditure information, which is assessed on a case by case basis. 

What we fund

Our grants can fund mobility equipment, sensory toys, educational support and therapy for children with a disability or additional needs. Read more.

We can also fund essential items for siblings, such a essential clothing, school uniform or essential household items for the whole family.

There are some things we can't fund, such as childcare costs, house repairs and bill repayments.Before making an enquiry, please check the full list of what we can't fund.  

Make an enquiry      

"This trike allows him to have independence, happiness and be able to play with his brother and friends without having someone right there holding him up. The look on his face is just incredible. If you need help, please consider this amazing charity. The application process is easy, the staff are lovely and the outcomes are life changing!." Benji's Mum, Stephanie. Read Benji's story 

Don't work in fashion and textiles, what next?

If you're sure you have never worked in UK fashion or textiles, unfortunately we won't be the right charity for you. Try this list of other charities who might be able to help your family.