News / Empowering Women
Award-winning women’s employment charity to launch new centre in Bristol
A national charity which has helped over 40,000 women around the country since its inception in 2013, is to open a new centre in Bristol.
Smart Works, which has 11 branches nationwide in cities like London, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Newcastle has welcomed its upcoming opening in Bristol to reach women across the South West.
The upcoming opening of Smart Works in Bristol city centre comes at a crucial time, addressing a pressing need; according to the Office for National Statistics(ONS), over 20,500 women in Bristol are either unemployed or seeking employment.
The charity believes that its services could not be more timely as its initiatives offer a “much-needed pathway” for women striving to re-enter the workforce in the challenging times.
The charity is committed to supporting unemployed women with a confirmed job interview by providing them with the tools, confidence, and resources to succeed
Jess Beider, director of programmes and operations said: “We are delighted to be bringing the Smart Works service to the women of Bristol. We know that there are thousands of unemployed, ready to work women living in this area who need our support, and Smart Works is eager to respond to this need.”
Smart Works summed up its mission as supporting unemployed women with a confirmed job interview by providing them with the tools, confidence, and resources to succeed.
The charity offers each client a high-quality, professional outfit tailored for the interview, free of charge. This garment, hers to keep, helps clients present themselves with confidence and professionalism.
Additionally, women receive an hour-long coaching session with a trained volunteer, who provides personalised advice and guidance on interview techniques, career strategies, and building confidence.
According to the charity’s data base, some 63 per cent of women who utilise Smart Works’ services secure employment within a month of their appointment.
The support does not end there; once clients obtain a job, they are welcomed back for a second dressing. During this session, they are provided with five additional pieces to complete a capsule wardrobe, further ensuring they are prepared for the workplace with a well-rounded, professional appearance.
The operations of the charity are bolstered by the support of the Julia Rausing Trust, whose contribution has allowed Smart Works to expand its transformative services into the South West for the first time.
Smart Works has helped over 40,000 women around the country since its inception in 2013
“This new centre means women in Bristol will be able to access our transformative dressing and coaching service in person for the first time, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to begin our work here,” added Beider.
The centre is scheduled to open in March 2025.
To learn about getting involved in the Bristol centre as a trustee, volunteer or a staff member, visit www.smartworks.org.uk/bristol
All photos: Smart Works
Read next:
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
