A CHARITY that helps women in the greater Reading area get back into work has launched a fundraising campaign to raise £40,000.
Smart Works Reading’s Women Into Work Fund aims to empower more than 750 women to get a new job and, it says, comes at a critical moment for its work, which includes coaching and providing a smart outfit to wear during job interviews.
They say women have been disproportionately impacted by the covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis.
And to ensure it gets off to the best possible start, Smart Works Reading is taking part in The Big Give’s Women and Girls Campaign, which will match fund donations made through its platform between Wednesday, October 11 to Wednesday, October 18.
It also wants Reading-based businesses to offer their support, through partnerships, donations and volunteer days.
The charity launched in 2015, and since then has helped more than 1,800 women, with 69% of clients last year getting a job within a month of their appointment.
Smart Works Reading chair Helen Francis said: “Unemployment takes an enormous emotional and economic toll. Work transforms lives, and we see that first-hand as women regain their confidence through our service.
“The Women Into Work Fund will empower us to support more women than ever on their journey back to employment.”
The fund will expand Smart Works Reading’s capacity to provide its one-to-one interview preparation and dressing services. Donations ensure professional clothing and coaching to help women see their full potential and succeed at interview.
Ms Francis said: “Your gift to the Women Into Work Fund is an investment in the futures of women in need across Reading and Berkshire.
“We encourage everyone to act urgently by donating via The Big Give from October 11-18. Together, we can transform a woman’s life.”
For more details, log on to: www.reading.smartworks.org.uk
