As part of the Worshipful Company of Weavers' flagstone initiatives to celebrate 900 years of history, the Company is extending its long term commitment to support those most at need in our criminal justice sector.

Charles, Jackie, Robert, Spadge and William are riding 380miles from Durham to London over 6 days to visit 10 of the country’s 12 women's prisons. Meeting us at the prisons will be local High Sheriffs, press, sectoral representativies and other national influencers.

We are riding to highlight the impact of imprisoning women and mothers on short prison sentences. Most custodial sentences for women are under 12 months, often for non-violent offences. Yet short sentences destabilise lives without addressing the underlying causes such as coercive relationships and mental health issues. Further, maternal imprisonment creates profound intergenerational harm affecting 15-20,000 children each year who end up in care.

Every donation will fund trusted advocates to guide 216 young girls and women, who have had convictions or suspended sentences but not yet custodial sentences, with the aim of diverting them away from criminality.

Donations of any amount are welcome, with the first £12,500 being match funded by philanthropists.

£10 - buys phone credit so she can reach support when she needs it most.

£20 - pays for travel so she can get to appointments, court or training.

£50 - pays for a phone, SIM and essentials so she can stay safe and connected.

£100 - delivers the support needed to secure safe accommodation or leave a risky situation.

£250 - will cover the cost of training, travel and support to get her ready for work.

£500 - provides specialist support to deal with trauma and rebuild confidence.

£1000 - covers the cost of longer term, consistent support to help her build a safer, stable future. More information about this work and initiatives can be found at: https://www.weavers.org.uk/justice-and-women/

Weavers Benevolent Fund

The Weavers Benevolent Fund supports projects in the criminal justice sector