The need for our service is clear
For the individual, unemployment is one of the biggest causes of poverty and associated with physical and mental health challenges, high mortality rates and academic underperformance. For the state, one unemployed person costs £6,897pa in benefits and lost tax revenue (Joseph Rowntree Foundation).
The women we support are at greatest risk of economic hardship and discrimination. In the last year, 44% of clients had been unemployed for over a year, 18% had applied for over 50 jobs and 10% had applied for over 100 jobs before coming to Smart Works. In addition, 37% were single mothers, 16% have a disability and 52% were from an ethnic minority.
What our clients gain from their appointment
Financial security
Financial security
“Thank you so much for all your help, with my clothing and my confidence. It’s really good being financially independent again and I have been able to put an offer on a rental flat for my children and me.”
– Susannah
Empowerment
Empowerment
“You helped me find my voice and instilled in me the ability to be confident in all that I do. I’m allowed to be me because of [Smart Works] and I will never forget that.”
– Kate
Self-belief
Self-belief
“It is interesting how much the way we visibly present ourselves can make such a difference. I was able to reconnect with my old self, catching a glimpse of the person I used to be. Thank you for all [the team] do to make the lives of women so much more meaningful. I am living proof that your actions really do matter.”
– Deborah
Economic independence
Economic independence
“The career coaching and interview prep were invaluable and the make-up session was an added bonus. Although I am incredibly nervous about starting (next week!), it is such a relief to have an income again and that is in no small way down to Smart Works.”
– Becky
Hope for the future
Hope for the future
“I remember very clearly how bleak life felt when I visited you 3 years ago, feeling hopeless, like no-one would give me a job because of my depression. The hours I spent with the women there – I will never forget them and have held Smart Works in my heart ever since.”
– Anonymous
Happiness
Happiness
“I never buy myself anything as my children come first and what’s left which isn’t much goes on shopping or essentials. I was so blown away by the outfit, shoes, bag, makeup and coat – it felt like Christmas had come early. I am so grateful for the help your charity gives to people who are desperate to get back into work. The difference you make is incredible.”
– Diane
Trusted and externally validated
The Smart Works service is underpinned by an acclaimed Theory of Change and an external impact evaluation that validated our work at Level 2 in standards of evidence (as set out by Nesta, the Government’s innovation charity). This means we can capture data that shows positive change.
In 2018, Smart Works completed a process evaluation. The research concluded that the Smart Works service brought about a profound change in clients and highlighted the strength and quality of our volunteers.
We were proud to be recognised as Social Action Charity of the year in the 2017 Charity Awards
Learn more about our impact
