Picture: Shana who was helped back into work by Smart Works.
It is so simple because wearing the right clothes changes her whole attitude to herself. She looks in the mirror and says 'Yes I can do this I can do this because I look and feel the part.
Smart Works Patron Betty Jackson CBE
Smart Works would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the Radio 4 listeners who gave generously to our appeal, raising an incredible £9,669 to support unemployed women across the UK to succeed at their job interview and start a new chapter.
Our appeal told the story of Smart Works client Shana, who was determined to get back into work after quitting her nursing diploma to care for her dying grandfather. Shana felt she was letting her children down by failing to get back into work. Smart Works gave Shana the confidence and self-belief she needed to succeed at interview.
Smart Works made me realise that the experience I had looking after my grandfather was a unique selling point, it wasn’t something I should be ashamed of or that I missed out of my chance of doing it before.
The tangible impact that our service has on a woman’s confidence is something we have the privilege to witness every day. The magic begins when she enters the dressing room and is styled into her interview outfit, hers to keep, by trained volunteers. She looks in the mirror and sees a new and impressive version of herself.
This is followed by one-to-one interview coaching, after which 60% of our clients go on to get the job. Since the appeal, we have celebrated supporting over 13,000 clients across the UK; in London, Reading, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle and Edinburgh. 13,000 women have been cared for, styled in clothes that make them feel confident and coached by someone who is passionate about listening to their story.
The support from Radio 4 listeners will allow us to take the Smart Works service to more women across the UK and help them to get the job that will transform their lives. Thank you so much for your support.
Find out more about our charity by visiting our