Printed by Us: Empowering Individuals Through Creativity
At its core, Printed by Us is far more than a business—it’s a lifeline for individuals who have experienced homelessness or long-term unemployment. As part of the Archer Project’s continuum of support, the initiative steps in once individuals are safely housed and ready to take the next step toward rebuilding their lives. Printed by Us offers these individuals a vital opportunity to regain confidence, develop transferable skills, and gain valuable first-hand workplace experience in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Through its screen-printing workshops and retail-focused employment programme, the social enterprise empowers participants to rediscover their potential and prepare for fulfilling, sustainable futures. This holistic approach ensures that the journey doesn’t end with housing but continues toward long-term independence and self-sufficiency.
“Our garments are 100% organic cotton, the inks are water-based, and everything is screen-printed by hand,” Sian shares. “We take pride in creating a product that is not only sustainable but reflects the values of the people who make it.”
But the true impact of Printed by Us goes beyond the garments. The social business model equips individuals with practical skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. “It’s about helping people to feel ready to take that next step in life,” Sian explains.
The Challenges of Compassionate Leadership
Running a social enterprise like Printed by Us comes with unique challenges, from navigating the ebbs and flows of retail to maintaining emotional resilience in a role that requires constant compassion.
“It’s a delicate balance,” Sian reflects. “To support vulnerable adults effectively, you have to be authentic and compassionate, but that can blur professional boundaries. Through the Sheffield Social Enterprise Network’s peer mentoring program, I was able to learn strategies to manage this.”
One significant change inspired by these sessions was introducing reflective practice for the leadership team. “Now, we meet weekly to discuss the emotional and mental toll of the work and support each other in maintaining our well-being.”
Support from SEGA and the Sheffield Social Enterprise Network
Both SSEN and SEGA have played pivotal roles in Printed by Us’s journey. “Being part of the Sheffield Social Enterprise Network has connected us with like-minded people and created a community where we can share experiences and support one another,” Sian notes.
Through SEGA, the enterprise gained access to one-to-one mentoring, a peer support group, and funding that has allowed them to hire a marketing coordinator. “The grant has been instrumental in helping us grow our online presence, which is crucial as retail continues to face challenges post-COVID,” Sian explains.
Looking Ahead: Growth and Challenges
As demand for their services increases, Printed by Us faces the dual challenge of meeting this need while navigating an uncertain retail environment. “We’re at capacity right now,” Sian admits. “To support more people, we need to expand our funding streams, whether through grants, retail sales, or other innovative approaches.”
Despite these challenges, Sian remains optimistic: “The community we’ve built and the support we’ve received from initiatives like SEGA give me hope. Together, we can continue to make a difference.”
