Making for Change

Making for Change | Credit: Christopher Woloshak | Graphic design: Lauren Chalmers | London College of Fashion | UAL

Making for Change is the Portal Centre’s award-winning vocational fashion and textiles training and production programme.

Initially established in 2014 for women in prison, the programme has expanded to deliver to the wider community in east London’s Fashion District. From its base at Poplar Works, Making for Change weaves together this thriving community fashion hub, bringing together the training programme and production enterprise with low-cost studios for fashion and creative business start-ups. Making for Change continues its mission to support the life chances of women in prison by increasing employability - which helps to build resilience and reduce re-offending – from its long-term home at HMP Downview women’s prison.

Vocational training

Trainees are taught Level 1 and 2 qualifications in fashion and textiles in combination with professional practice within a supportive working environment. The programme encourages them to ‘learn through doing’, to become proficient with their skills and learn to work as a part of a team. Employment opportunities are available within the production team at Poplar Works on successful completion of qualifications.

Production

Operating from two fully equipped sites, Making for Change offers a unique experimental space to explore and test innovative fashion production. Our highly skilled professional team alongside graduates from our training programme produce garments, accessories and homeware to the highest quality standards. We bring an innovative and circular approach to manufacturing, specialising in up-cycling and re-purposing to create exciting new products.

Partnerships

Making for Change is delivered in partnership with HM Prison Service, London College of Fashion, the Ministry of Justice, Poplar Works, Poplar HARCA and The Trampery.