A Legacy of craftsmanship and supporting the voluntary sector
The Worshipful Company of Weavers, established in the 12th century, is the oldest recorded livery company in the City of London. The Company’s roots are firmly planted in the ancient craft of weaving, and it continues to support the UK textile industry to this day. Over the course of its almost 900-year history it has of course seen much change and transformation. In more recent times there has been a focus on using its resources to support people in contact with the criminal justice system, particularly young people. The Weavers’ Company Benevolent fund, established in 1973, aims to provide funding to innovative projects which could serve as a model elsewhere.
The Weavers’ Company has provided grants to causes that create meaningful, long-term impacts, with a focus on youth services, criminal justice reform, and community development. The Company ensures that its contributions drive sustainable change by aligning funding with organisations working with specific groups, including women.
Continued support for women in the criminal justice system
The Weavers’ Company has pledged to continue its support of the criminal justice sector up to 2030, to mark its 900-year anniversary. To this end, plans include a focus on women in the criminal justice system:
- Funding a summit focusing on women in the criminal justice system – ‘Justice and Women: A New Direction’, to consider alternatives to women in custody.
- The design phase of a major sector-identified proof-of-concept intervention that will tackle the challenges of women in custody
- Implementation of the proof-of-concept intervention.
Who have The Weavers Supported so far?
The Weavers’ Company has provided many grants over the years to innovative organisations and projects. Below are just some examples.
One of The Weavers’ Company’s standout partnerships has been with Escapeline, a Somerset and Dorset-based organisation tackling the grooming and exploitation of young people by county lines gangs. A £7,500 grant was provided to fund the salary of a youth mentor, who’s lived experience is instrumental in helping divert young adults away from the criminal justice system.
In Leicester, The Weavers’ Company supported New Futures, a therapeutic and recovery centre for women facing abuse and exploitation. A £24,000 grant was awarded to cover the salary of a case worker assisting street-based sex workers involved in the criminal justice system. This support not only helped women access vital counselling and outreach services but also promoted stability and recovery for some of the city’s most vulnerable individuals.
The Weavers’ Company has also contributed to West Steren, a project focused on early intervention for young people at risk of entering the criminal justice system. A £10,000 grant toward core costs enabled the delivery of programmes referred by local services, offering support and guidance to young people in need of positive direction and engagement.
In Scotland, The Weavers’ Company provided support to Positive Changes, who sold high-quality chocolates across the UK and was committed to providing opportunities for women with barriers to personal development through training, mentoring and the provision of access to work experience. A £10,000 award was agreed to support staff costs to extend the mentoring programme.
Collaborative efforts with Clinks
The Weavers’ Company’s partnership with Clinks reflects its commitment to criminal justice reform. The upcoming women’s summit, hosted jointly by The Weavers’ Company and Clinks, focuses on exploring innovative solutions to systemic challenges, fostering collaboration across sectors, and amplifying grassroots initiatives. This event exemplifies the Company’s dedication to addressing complex societal issues with a thoughtful, strategic approach.
As one of London’s oldest institutions, The Weavers’ Company combines centuries of tradition with a forward-thinking mission to support and uplift communities in need. Through projects like the ones listed above and the summit with Clinks, the Company demonstrates the power of collaboration and compassion in shaping a brighter future for individuals and communities across the UK.
You can find out more about Clinks’ work with women here
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The role is for a leader from an organisation focused on racially minoritised people, with expertise in service delivery, policy, advocacy, or related areas in criminal justice. Racial disparities are present at every CJS stage. This role ensures these voices are central in shaping policy to help address and eradicate them. Apply by Mon 18 Nov, 10am. More info: https://www.clinks.org/voluntary-community-sector/vacancies/15566 #CriminalJustice #RR3 #RacialEquity