We're incredibly proud to share the story of our partnership with John Smedley, as recently featured by UKFT. It's a perfect example of how companies can embed charitable support directly into their employee wellbeing strategies.

Within days of stepping into her role as Managing Director of the historic knitwear brand, Jess McGuire Dudley chose to partner with FTCT. Making our partnership such an immediate priority reflects her deep understanding of what truly matters to employees and the industry.

"I first met Anna [Pangbourne, our CEO] two years ago and was immediately struck by her passion and dedication to helping people," Jess explains. "I knew I wanted to partner with her from the moment she described the brilliant work of the FTCT."

As a mother of two young children and an 18-year veteran of the fashion industry, Jess understands the unique challenges facing families in our sector.

Real Impact: Marie's Story

The partnership has already made a tangible difference. When Marie, a John Smedley employee and mother of a 16-year-old, faced health setbacks that left her unable to work, FTCT was there to help. 

Building a Culture of Care

What makes this partnership truly special is how John Smedley has embedded it into their company culture. They've created a 'Culture Club', a council of employees from all levels who act as FTCT ambassadors internally and provide support for colleagues who might need it.

"Our support is multifaceted and goes beyond just a financial contribution to the charity," Jess explains. "We want to build an authentic and long-lasting partnership with the FTCT through donations, fundraising and employee activity."

John Smedley's commitment to employee wellbeing isn't new,  it's woven into their DNA. As the world's oldest manufacturing factory still in operation, they've always been more than just a business.

"Throughout our history we can see that the Smedley family have always valued their employees greatly," Jess notes, referencing how the family wrote to every employee sent to war and sent care packages to their families. "I want to continue this tradition by placing wellbeing and morale at the heart of our business, more than ever our responsibilities as an employer flex beyond the 9 to 5."

A Call to Action for the Industry

Jess's advice to other businesses considering a similar partnership is refreshingly direct: "Do it! The charity is brilliant, and our sector needs time to re-build. Support employees current, historic or future wherever you can."

This partnership represents more than corporate social responsibility – it's about recognizing that supporting families creates stronger, more resilient workplaces. When employees know there's a safety net during life's unexpected challenges, they can focus on what they do best.

As our CEO Anna Pangbourne explains: "By relieving the financial pressures faced by parents at home, working with FTCT can significantly enhance the workplace wellbeing and productivity of your team."

The John Smedley partnership sets a powerful example for the entire industry. It shows that supporting employees holistically – acknowledging that their wellbeing extends far beyond the workplace – isn't just the right thing to do, it's good business.

We're grateful to have partners like Jess and the John Smedley team who understand that when we support families, we strengthen our entire industry. Their leadership is inspiring other companies to step up, and together, we're building a more supportive future for everyone in fashion and textiles.

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