On Friday, 27th June 2025, HMP Leicester will open its doors to mark the official launch of Bearing Gifts—a remarkable new initiative weaving together rehabilitation, sustainability, and social impact from behind prison walls.
Developed through the Bars to Business programme, Bearing Gifts empowers prisoners to transform discarded textiles into handcrafted patchwork teddy bears. For every bear sold, a twin bear is donated to a child in need, symbolising empathy and connection between prisoners and the wider community.
The launch event offers a rare opportunity to witness transformation in action. Guests will hear directly from Patrick (Paddy), the prisoner whose creativity and determination sparked the project, and take a guided tour of the Bearing Gifts Stitching Academy, meeting the team and partners who brought this vision to life.
Empowering Through Skills and Purpose
Participants in the programme receive expert training through Fashion-Enter Ltd’s Fashion Technology Academy (FTA), gaining industry-recognised qualifications in stitching and garment production—skills that provide a real stepping stone toward employment or entrepreneurship upon release.
TJ Hussein, Head of Compliance at Fashion-Enter Ltd, commented:
“We’ve ensured that the Stitching Academy at HMP Leicester reflects the same high standards as all our FTA campuses. Every sewing machine is fully compliant and ready for use, and we’ve supplied all the necessary fabrics and trims—more than needed—because we believe in this programme wholeheartedly.”
The studio has been completely refurbished with a fresh layout, new electrics, and a clean, professional environment to support focused, hands-on learning.
A Symbol of Love and Connection
Jenny Holloway, CEO of Fashion-Enter Ltd / FTA, said:
“From the moment I met Paddy and heard his story, I knew we had to make Bearing Gifts a reality. He shared how the traveller community expresses love with the words, ‘I half my heart for you’, and he transformed that sentiment into the idea of twin teddy bears—each holding half a heart, united when reunited.”
Fashion-Enter Ltd has worked closely with HMP Leicester to design and develop the bears, spending dedicated time perfecting their construction. The organisation will also provide training for the prison’s new stitching instructor during the launch.
“Our sincere thanks to Nick Campsie and the Tasso Foundation—this programme wouldn’t exist without their incredible support,” Holloway added.
A Model for Rehabilitation and Change
Nick Campsie, representing the Tasso Foundation, shared:
“Patrick deserves immense credit for this initiative, as do the staff at HMP Leicester. Bearing Gifts is a powerful example of how creativity and compassion can drive real rehabilitation—and change lives both inside and outside prison walls.”
Find Out More
Bearing Gifts isn’t just about teddy bears—it’s about second chances, skills for life, and strengthening communities through connection and care.
To explore the project, buy a bear, or support the initiative, visit:
🔗 www.bearing-gifts.co.uk