A stitch in time

Looking through some of our old case files always produces some interesting finds. Today, looking at files of those discharged from our Bethesda home in the 1950s, a brochure popped up for The School of Stitchery and Lace in Bookham, Surrey. It is rare that our records detail what became of our care leavers: in most cases they state simply "restored to parent[s]", which leaves us guessing what came next. A few letters and the brochure found in this particular file, however, suggests that one of our care leavers went on to make their way in the world of work and live independently, but with a network in place to support them too. This is something which the Together Trust strives to provide for all its young people to this day. By offering programmes which aim to enhance the employability and independence of its young people, this is achieved through tailored work experience, education, and support. Below is a letter highlighting the Trust’s early commitment to this endeavour written by the General Secretary of the Manchester and Salford Refuges to the Ministry of Labour and National Service, thanking them for their support in securing a place for a young person at the School.

The School of Stitchery and Lace, now the Grange Centre, originally provided training in needlework to nurses who had been injured in the First World War. The charity became well known for its investment in young people with disabilities and the work that its students produced. The quality of the work was such that it attracted the attention of Mary of Teck, Queen Consort to George V, who purchased a number of garments from the School. It is hoped our Bethesda care leaver found success at the School and went on to live a happy and independent life.

Today, the Grange Centre operates a number of services beyond that of needlework training and crafts, including the provision of supported lodgings, residential care and more. To find out more about the Grange Centre’s history and work today visit their website here.