A grassroots campaign has surged across the UK, with over 40,000 people signing a petition demanding that the struggling ceramics industry, led by the iconic Denby Pottery, be included in a key government financial support scheme.
Denby Pottery, a cornerstone of British craftsmanship founded in 1809, entered administration in late March, citing unsustainable rises in energy and labour costs. The move has already resulted in dozens of redundancies at its Derbyshire site.
Former marketing director Hayley Baddiley, who launched the petition, is urging the government to extend its 'British Industry Supercharger' scheme—which currently provides electricity cost relief to sectors like steel and chemicals—to include ceramics.
"This petition calls for a level playing field," Baddiley told reporters. "We face some of the highest industrial costs globally. While it might be too late for Denby, this is about protecting an entire foundation industry that employs over 20,000 people and contributes £2 billion to the economy."
The petition gained 40,000 signatures in just four days and needs 60,000 more to trigger a parliamentary debate. Baddiley described the response as overwhelming, noting it reflects widespread public desire to support the heritage sector.
Amber Valley MP Linsey Farnsworth, who is backing the campaign, stated that inclusion in the support scheme could be a "key factor" in attracting a new investor to rescue Denby Pottery.
"The rapid public support sends a powerful message about how much our community and the country value Denby's heritage and local jobs," Farnsworth said. "I am determined to make conditions for a new investor as favourable as possible."
A government spokesperson acknowledged the challenges facing historic industries like ceramics, confirming ongoing discussions with industry representatives and unions to explore support options.
As administrators continue seeking a buyer for Denby, the petition aims to amplify the sector's voice in national policy, hoping to shield other firms from a similar fate.