When we first opened our Etsy shop back in 2020, our very small team handmade each one of our LGBTQ+ signalling bracelets. As we're growing and expanding, the next logical step for us is to outsource production, which is why we are delighted to announce a new partnership with Watford Workshop, an organisation that supports the work of people with disabilities.
RCREW was founded with the mission to bring positive social change and make the world a better place for everyone, especially for those in the LGBTQ+ community. We are so grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with the Watford Workshop, who have dedicated their practices to provide training and living wages to members of the disabled community here in the UK.
As an organisation, Watford Workshop hires and trains disabled people with skill sets relevant to their work interests, which can range from technical professions to factory trades. Living with a disability can lead to discrimination and barriers in life, especially within the workforce. People with a disability, whether it's developmental or physical, deserve the right to have financial independence and be able to live everyday lives comfortably.
Our signalling bracelets will be produced at their workshop in Watford. Since our bracelets are handmade, these bracelets cost more to make than others on the market, and part of that reason is that we decided not to outsource production overseas. Although manufacturing overseas would have been a cheap and easy choice, it would not have aligned with our values. We, as a company, believe in creating high-quality products while committing to fight for social justice. Both Watford Workshop and RCREW share common goals of empowering and uplifting people while doing something good for society. This is why we, as a brand, are committed to upholding ethical manufacturing practices.
All of our products will continue to be made in the UK, and by partnering with Watford Workshop, a percentage of our sales will go directly to support their cause. So, by buying one of our signalling bracelets, you are actively contributing in helping create jobs for people with a disability. This is a conscious choice. We believe in fair trade and well-paid jobs, and we hope you agree! We are very excited to be working with them while continuing to uphold our mission.
If you'd like to learn more about Watford Workshop and its incredible work in helping the disabled community, you can visit their website here. You can also follow and like them on Twitter and Facebook.