Therese’s story

Therese's story

Therese came to the UK from Australia in 2008 and trained as an upholsterer in London. Since then, she has worked as a sole trader and over the past three years she has worked as part of Sit Collective, a female led upholstery studio based in London.

On a daily basis, she collaborates with fellow designers and upholsterers to create items such as soft furnishings and bespoke, commissioned pieces.

Despite being a resident of the UK, who works and pays taxes, Therese was unable to claim state welfare benefits when some unforeseen life events impacted her income. Fortunately, Therese found out about our welfare grants and applied for one. A grant was awarded within a few days to help Therese for a few months. 

Therese said: “Asking for help can be embarrassing and difficult but the lovely people at The Furniture Makers’ Company made it easy. After a sudden and unexpected life event and living far from family support, the grant they provided gave me the breathing room I needed to get through a few difficult months and back on track. I am hugely appreciative of their approachable help and support.”