Graham started his print career at the age of 17, in the North West of England. He won an industry award and ran his own printing business for 25 years, with many high-profile clients.
He remembers: “I did a lot of work for a well-known art gallery, including producing limited edition prints of artwork from there. I remember being accompanied by security guards from the gallery as I was printing from the original – they would take any prints that were not up to scratch, and shred them, so there was only the exact amount of limited edition copies ever available.”
Unexpectedly facing hardship
However, as technology advanced, things became much more difficult for Graham’s business. “I lost everything,” he explains, “My business and my relationship, and I was basically out on the street. I don’t know how I survived emotionally, things really did get so bad.”
He managed to find work but continued to struggle with debt. Looking for guidance on how to move out of the situation in which he found himself, he visited a charity hub, who provided support on ways to deal with his debt, and introduced him to the Printing Charity.
Support is out there
Graham explains: “From then on, you have helped me. I’m only on a state pension, so every bit of money from the Printing Charity makes a huge difference. Through careful budgeting, I can afford to live and even, occasionally, treat myself. The lack of money does sometimes get me down, but I am also very lucky to have family and friends who are there for me.”
Graham believes that everyone in the print industry and allied trades needs to know that the charity is there for them. He says: “It was only by chance that I learnt about the charity, and I’m so delighted I did, because I am not sure if I would be here without you. I hope that as many people as possible can learn about the work you do, as if they ever find themselves in a situation like mine, they will know where to turn.”
Through having the courage to start a conversation and seek support, Graham learnt about the Printing Charity. We know that everyone’s situation is unique, so please, contact our friendly team on support@theprintingcharity.org.uk or 01293 542 820 to find out how we can be here for you, too.