At Headstar, we recently ran a clothing drive in support of our charity partner, Smart Works Leeds. A total of 65 items were donated – including smart work dresses, bags and shoes – to help women prepare for job interviews and feel confident stepping into new opportunities.
Members of our newly launched HerFinance Circle community were quick to get involved, with multiple people donating some lovely clothing items. Hannah Boyle, Fundraising and Partnerships Lead at Smart Works Leeds, joined us at the HerFinance Circle launch event to collect the first round of donations and present to spread the word about all the work the charity is doing. Hannah said: “65 items are amazing! Thank you so much for your support.”
Donations were gathered across the Headstar network, with colleagues, clients and candidates contributing items that reflect the professional image Smart Works helps women achieve. Each piece collected goes directly towards helping someone dress and feel ready for interview success.
About Smart Works Leeds
Smart Works Leeds provides high-quality clothing and one-to-one coaching to unemployed women across Yorkshire who are preparing for job interviews. The charity’s approach combines practical support with confidence-building, offering an interview outfit and a personalised preparation session delivered by volunteer coaches.
The results speak for themselves. Nationally, 63% of clients secure a job within one month of their appointment. In Leeds, that figure rises to 72%, showing the direct impact of the charity’s work.
Smart Works Leeds is part of a UK-wide network of centres that empower women to transform their lives through employment. You can find out more about their work at leeds.smartworks.org.uk.
Continuing the Partnership
This first clothing drive only marks the start of our partnership with Smart Works Leeds. We’re already exploring ways to build on this momentum – from future collections to volunteering opportunities and sharing awareness through our wider network.
A big thank you to everyone who donated and helped make this initiative a success. Together, we’re helping women across Yorkshire take the next step in their careers with confidence.
