"I can’t believe it, I’ve never been awarded a certificate before. I’m absolutely choked."

- Paul, Fine Cell Work Stitcher

At Fine Cell Work, we are continually impressed by the achievements of our talented stitchers, and our annual Stitcher Awards is a moment where we can formally acknowledge their accomplishments. 

In 2025, the numbers of Stitcher Awards we gave out reached an all-time high - 233 stitchers received awards, accompanied by personalised letters of recognition. These awards celebrated a wide range of achievements — from volunteering, leadership, exceptional stitching skills and teaching, to progress in overcoming personal challenges and showing long-standing dedication to the Fine Cell Work community. 

Our programme for people in prison to do paid, professional stitching in their cells addresses social isolation and improves mental well-being by giving them a purposeful connection to society. Stitchers gain self-respect and self-discipline as their engagement, skills and productivity grow, and the Stitcher Awards enhances all these impacts.

One volunteer that teaches and supports stitchers in prison tells us how important these awards are to the stitchers:

“They were very pleased and surprised with their awards. One stitcher was visibly emotional, and it transpired he has never been awarded anything for excelling at something. Another said that this was one of the kindest things that has happened to him in prison.”

Our Programmes and Impact Officer, Elinor Gibbs, who oversees the process shared:

"The awards are one of my favourite times of year at Fine Cell Work. Every year I make sure I go to at least one cell group when the volunteers are giving out the awards as it is great to enjoy the moment with the stitchers, where they are being recognised for the hard work they have put in over the year."

The Stitcher Awards are divided into nine categories, and each award holder receives additional financial funds as part of the award in time for the Christmas period. Our 2025 awards were generously supported by The Brothers Trust, The McGrath Trust, The Radcliffe Trust and The Worshipful Company of Broderers. 

Gold Standard Award for our most outstanding stitchers who have shown they can produce complex commissions to deadlines, working quickly and reliably to a very high standard, demonstrating the ability to adapt to new techniques.

Volunteering, Leadership and Teaching Award for stitchers who have shown leadership and commitment in acting as Class Coordinators or Peer Mentors.

McGrath Progress Award for stitchers who have shown real progress in developing new skills and confidence. 

Excellence in Lone Stitching Award given to stitchers who have worked independently of cell groups, with dedication and commitment.

George Gater Award for overcoming personal challenges and showing perseverance.

Outstanding Contribution to Fine Cell Work for stitchers who are champions of Fine Cell Work within their prison and/or stitchers who have worked very competently and quickly to deadlines when something is needed particularly urgently, or to finish pieces for the Commissions Team.

Production Commendation Award to reward stitchers who were not nominated by volunteers, but produced eight or more Fine Cell Work kits over the last year.

Broderers Award for outstanding stitchers who have shown real creativity and initiative and/or stitchers who have mastered a new skill. They will have gone above and beyond what is expected of them and made a substantial contribution to Fine Cell Work's production capabilities. 

Workshop Award for stitchers in our workshops in recognition of their commitment and contributions.

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You can support our work in prisons and post-release by choosing to buy a Fine Cell Work Product, by making a donation or by leaving a legacy to Fine Cell Work.

There are many ways to get involved with Fine Cell Work. Our diverse community is made up of stitchers, post-release apprentices, volunteers, trustees and staff.

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