A new eco-fashion project in the North East is giving textile waste a second chance.
Launched by autism charity Daisy Chain, the Neuthread scheme is turning unsellable clothing into high-quality fashion while creating 'life-changing' opportunities for neurodivergent individuals.
Backed by £1.5 million from The National Lottery Community Fund’s Climate Action Fund, the project aims to reduce landfill waste and promote environmental action in a creative, community-focused way.
Johnathon Pickard, director of business development at Daisy Chain, said: "Neuthread offers something tangible in response, a way for people to take action, be creative and feel part of the solution to protect our planet.
"We’re so grateful to National Lottery players for helping us bring this to life.
"This isn’t just a fashion project, it’s the start of a new climate movement rooted in wellbeing, community and purpose."
The project expands on Daisy Chain’s existing charity retail work by transforming unsellable garments into a couture clothing line led by neurodivergent designers.
It also includes a dedicated Skills Academy as part of the Mend It, Don’t Rag It campaign, which teaches upcycling and repair skills to promote sustainable fashion choices.
Melissa Eaglesfield, interim funding strategy, communications and impact director at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: "Daisy Chain is creating something truly innovative and inclusive by turning waste textiles into fashion while putting neurodivergent talent in the spotlight.
"It's climate action that brings multiple benefits – reducing waste, creating skilled jobs and volunteering opportunities, and making sure everyone can play a part in building a greener future.
"That's why we're thrilled to back Neuthread through our Climate Action Fund."
The project is also working in partnership with The PFC Trust and collaborating with six universities to offer student placements and build the next generation of sustainable fashion leaders.
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Neeraj Sharma, CEO of Daisy Chain, said: "This project is transformational for our charity and the community we serve.
"It will create real, lasting opportunities for neurodivergent people in an industry that has historically excluded them."
For more information or to get involved, visit www.daisychainproject.co.uk.
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