Unwanted saris are to be turned into other clothes and soft furnishings as part of a Bradford project aimed at getting women into employment.

The social enterprise scheme will involve workshops enabling women in the Asian community to make and sell products.

The Millan Centre in Manningham has received £9,800 of Lottery Awards for All funding for the project.

“Changes to the benefits system mean more women are seeking work – many of them are very keen to find work but have no experience of it, having spent a long time in the home looking after a family, and don’t know where to start,” said Surji Car, community development manager at the Millan Centre.

“The idea is for them to learn about things like designing, making, pricing and marketing goods.

“A lot of women have sewing skills – this project makes good use of that and increases their chances of employment.”

Surji is appealing for people to donate saris, traditionally worn by Hindu women, to the ‘Millan Bazaar’ project.

“A sari can be very expensive – I know of people who have paid £400 for one – but in a lot of cases they’re only worn a few times, for special occasions,” said Surji.

“Rather than just have them hanging up we would like to put saris to good use, by using the material to make things like tops, wrap skirts, bags, children’s clothes and interiors like duvet covers and pillow cases.

“We will start with workshops and, if it takes off, we would like to expand to bigger premises and look to secure long-term contracts with stores.”

Women taking part in the scheme will also be given training in areas like IT, health and safety and food hygiene, equipping them with skills for the jobs market.

Anyone who would like to donate a sari, or take part in the project, is asked to contact Surji Cair on (01274) 480691.