Smart Works Leeds received Rachel Reeves, MP for Leeds West and Pudsey and Chancellor of the Exchequer, at their centre.

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Sitting down with Smart Works clients, staff and volunteers, Rachel Reeves, MP and Chancellor, said:

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‘It was fantastic to visit Smart Works’ Leeds office and meet the dedicated volunteers and staff, as well as hear from some incredible beneficiaries and learn about the impact they’re making.’

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During the visit, Smart Works Leeds client Alla shared her story. Alla, from Ukraine, arrived in Leeds in 2022 with her two children, forced to leave her home because of the war in Ukraine. Alla told how she had struggled to find a stable job before being referred to Smart Works Leeds, facing challenges such as a lack of confidence and fear around starting work in a new country. ‘Smart Works felt like entering a very safe place. They don’t just help you find work, they help you to find hope and confidence,” she told Rachel Reeves, MP and Chancellor.

The visit comes a week after the launch of third iteration of the Smart Works Unemployment Index, which revealed that the state of the job market has deteriorated significantly for women seeking work. We are grateful that this visit shines a light on the critical work that Smart Works does, supporting women into employment by building both skills and confidence. In a worsening job market for women, increasing our visibility and extending our reach has never been more important.