WEC Engineering Academy Apprentices in Rotherham supports Hospice Butterfly Appeal
We are proud to announce that our Rotherham apprentices are supporting Rotherham Hospice’s 2026 Butterfly Appeal, a meaningful initiative aimed at raising vital funds for specialist palliative and end of life care across the Rotherham community.
As part of the appeal, apprentices from our MTL division are hand-crafting 2,000 corten steel butterflies, each one carefully produced to form part of a large-scale installation in The Meadow of Memories at Wentworth Woodhouse. Visitors are now able to purchase a butterfly for £40 and add a personalised engraved message, creating a lasting tribute to loved ones who have been supported by the hospice.
The installation will be open to the public from 9am to 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday, between 4th and 19th July 2026. Rotherham Hospice is aiming to raise £100,000 through the appeal, with all proceeds going directly towards delivering compassionate care for patients and their families.
This project builds on the success of previous initiatives, with apprentices from our Rotherham facility helping to raise £94,000 for Rotherham Hospice in 2025 through the Feather Appeal and Star Appeal. The continued support highlights a strong commitment to giving back to the local community and supporting the vital work of the hospice.
Jamie Sharp, Business Manager at MTL Advanced, said:
“The Feather Appeal in 2025 was a truly special project to be part of. The response from the public was genuinely moving, and seeing it gain national recognition while raising so much money for the hospice meant a great deal to everyone at MTL Advanced.
So when Rotherham Hospice came to us about a follow-on project for 2026, we didn't hesitate. Our apprentices have thrown themselves into producing the butterfly sculptures and it's been fantastic to see their skills and pride in the work come through in every piece.
We can't wait to see them installed at Wentworth Woodhouse. The Feather Appeal set a high bar, we are hoping this year's appeal raises it even higher.”
We are proud to support initiatives that not only contribute to important causes but also showcase the talent and dedication of its apprentices.
Our Blackburn apprentices have some exciting projects planned for this year too, check back soon to hear more.