Helping North East women into employment through interview clothing and coaching.
Smart Works Newcastle supports North East women into employment through interview clothing and coaching.
A two-hour appointment can give a woman the confidence, self-belief and practical tools she needs to succeed at interview and start a new chapter of her life. The service is open to anyone who identifies as female, is unemployed, aged 16 or over, and based in the North East.
The centre is run by a small, close-knit staff team supported by over 40 volunteers and trustees, and works in partnership with almost 300 referral agencies across the North East, including Job Centre Plus, mental health charities and employability schemes. Of the women it sees, 56 per cent have been unemployed for 12 months or more, 45 per cent are single parents and 14 per cent have a disability.
Dona came to Smart Works Newcastle, was given the time and support to try on a range of interview clothing, and was coached through the interview process by one of their volunteer coaches. She went on to secure employment as a Health Improvement Practitioner.
“My experience was amazing. Smart Works Newcastle boosted my confidence to a much higher level. I am very pleased and happy. I would recommend this to my other friends. You all are awesome!”
Dona, supported by Smart Works Newcastle
“For the past two years the Trust's generous grant has enabled us to support 730 women with interview clothing and coaching, with 72 per cent getting the job. We are so grateful for the funding, which will enable us to support a further 1,000 women in the year ahead.”
Helen Boyd, Centre Manager, Smart Works Newcastle
The Trust and Smart Works Newcastle have worked together since 2021. Over that time the Trust's grant has enabled Smart Works to support over 730 women with interview clothing and coaching, with 72 per cent going on to get the job, and helped fund the aim of supporting a further 1,000 women across the North East.
By helping women into work, Smart Works boosts their confidence, helps them become role models to their children, and brings income and active members into their local communities.
We fund grassroots organisations across the North East that help people live healthier, happier lives.