Tom’s story

Tom’s story

Tom has dedicated his life to the furniture industry, beginning his journey as an apprentice cabinet maker and steadily progressing to become the owner of his own successful business. His expertise and commitment to quality earned him a place in the esteemed Guild of Master Craftsmen. As Tom built his business, he also cultivated strong connections within the industry, gaining recognition for his craftsmanship and innovative designs.

Earlier this year, Tom faced an unexpected and challenging setback. After contracting Covid-19, he was unable to work for an extended period, leading to significant disruptions in his business operations. During his recovery, Tom fell behind on the rent for his workshop. With a young family to support and mounting bills, the pressure on Tom grew. The risk of further debt loomed, threatening both his livelihood and his family’s stability.

In this difficult time, Tom turned to The Furniture Makers’ Company for help. Understanding the urgency of the situation, we swiftly arranged for his rent arrears to be paid directly to his landlord. This intervention provided Tom with much-needed relief, allowing him to focus on his recovery and return to what he does best—creating beautiful, innovative furniture.

Tom expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you so much! It’s such a massive help”.

With the support of The Furniture Makers’ Company, Tom was able to stabilise his business and continue his work. His situation soon began to improve significantly. Tom was shortlisted for the prestigious Alan Peters Furniture Award in 2024, a testament to his talent and dedication. Additionally, he has been invited to judge the award in the future and was asked to join the committee of an industry association, further cementing his reputation as a respected craftsman in the industry.

Jo Goga, welfare officer at The Furniture Makers’ Company, said: “We are proud to have been there for Tom during his time of need, helping him to overcome a challenging period and enabling him to continue his craft with renewed focus and energy.”