5,000 signatures reached
To: Any one with an interest in textile art and craft, stitch and embroidery.
Closure of all local Embroiderers’ Guild Branches
Sign the petition to demand that the Trustees unfreeze all local branch bank accounts and allow for a period of consultation. Delay the proposed members meeting to allow for alternative proposals to be put forward.
Why is this important?
The Trustees froze all branch bank accounts with no notice on Friday 19th February 2021. They are asking members to approve a resolution that proposes that all branches will be closed and that all the branch monies will be redeployed to cover HQ debits and the future activities of the main Guild. The proposal is not supported with any financial planning or budgeting documentation. We are concerned that members have not been given the opportunity to understand if the Trustees of this National Charity have correctly carried out their duties and that no provision has been made to allow for members to suggest an alternative solution. If members do not vote for the resolution then all branches will close anyway and their financial assets will be seized. The local branches have existed for many decades and offer a fabulous place for individuals to share their knowledge, exchange ideas and encourage the art of both contemporary and traditional stitching. Many branches are also involved in outreach work in the community, encouraging and teaching textile arts and crafts to both children and adults. All aspects of crafting are currently enjoying significant growth in interest, particularly during the pandemic and the local branches have worked hard to keep their programme of events running. Now, with so many people feeling isolated and with mental health issues, is not the time to force branches to close and redeploy branch funds. For more information see https://embroiderersguild.com/general-meeting-2021/
