Happy & Proud Project

The ‘Happy and Proud’ project by Calico Homes and Participation Works supported 13 young girls of primary and secondary school age from the South West Burnley area, helping them to boost their self-esteem and teaching them the importance of developing themselves outside of the school environment.

This involved working with heritage partners Gawthorpe Textiles Collection, visiting various museums in the region to learn more about topics such as equality, social justice and democracy. From this, they then created their own bespoke fabrics and textile banners to reflect their own individual personalities, views and values and gave the girls the chance to interview inspirational women from across the town.

The project received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to provide opportunities for young girls to develop their confidence, learn more about important women throughout history, and to learn new skills with a view to instilling a sense of pride in their home town and raising aspirations. The project was a great success and was even recognised with an award at the Northern Housing Awards 2019 ceremony held at Old Trafford.