Young people face growing barriers to employment, especially those without access to practical experience and opportunities to build skills and confidence. At the same time, traditional crafts like silk weaving are at risk as the older generation of craftspeople retire, and fewer people enter the profession. Without action, we risk losing both vital career pathways for young people and an important part of our heritage. In rural Hampshire, limited transport adds to this lack of opportunity.

Whitchurch Silk Mill provides structured work placements where young people gain hands-on experience in silk weaving, with support from skilled staff. They build confidence and practical skills, develop networks and real workplace experience, and gain support to move into employment here or use their transferable skills to progress into new roles. By offering local opportunities, we remove barriers to access while ensuring these rare heritage skills are passed on.