1930s
Our shop on Charles Street
In the autumn of 1936, we reached an exciting new milestone—our very own shop! It was a dream come true as the building on Charles Street took shape, and the anticipation in our hearts grew with each passing day. Finally, we would have a space to showcase our work, a place where all our efforts could be proudly displayed and sold.
The thought of seeing our creations, made with so much care and dedication, available for others to enjoy, filled us with excitement. As the workers, we couldn’t wait for the day when our Artificial Flowers, Soft Toys, and Leather Goods would be available for sale, bringing a sense of accomplishment and joy to us all.
Throughout the year, we would pour our hearts into crafting these beautiful items, each piece a reflection of our hard work and skill. Our shop became more than just a place to sell—it was a symbol of our collective spirit, a place where every item told a story of craftsmanship, passion, and pride.
The joy of work
The Guild, its shop, and halls are more than a workplace; they’re a sanctuary where we find purpose and belonging. Here, we don’t just work—we share in the joy of contributing to something greater than ourselves, something that the wider world often overlooks.
What makes it even more special is the camaraderie that is found within these walls. As workers, we don’t just come here to make a living; we come to connect. It’s in the smiles exchanged, the conversations shared, and the understanding we have for one another that we find our true strength. Through these daily interactions, we’re able to momentarily forget the struggles and afflictions we face, replacing them with moments of genuine joy and solidarity. This is more than just work—it is a community, a place where we are seen, valued, and able to thrive together.
Mr Leicester looks in
Mr. Leicester’s independent account praised the Guild’s impact.
“Let us consider the Guild and its ramifications – the only word I can find that adequately describes what has been done. Started for the purpose of social gatherings at a common meeting-place, the idea was developed and extended to include holiday jaunts, visits to the incapable and bed-ridden, provision of work-shops and suitable training at various light occupations, and one of the most beautifully-located Holiday Homes I have ever seen, or hope to see.
I will go further. If the object of the Guild had been that of imparting a little pleasure to the drab and cheerless lives of our helpless men and women it would have deserved the support and encouragement of all for this reason alone; but its efforts to regenerate and transform the younger members of this unfortunate class are sufficiently important and successful to warrant notice. When boys and girls found as partly-helpless and sometimes mentally impaired, and are then worked upon and made up into competent wage-earners and useful members of society; here you find the best work of the Guild, and the one in which outside co-operation is both essential and valuable.