Smart Works Bristol
Our objectives
Smart Works Bristol supports unemployed women who are facing significant barriers to work. Many of our clients have experienced long-term unemployment, financial hardship, low confidence, or other challenges that make securing a job difficult. They are referred to us by job centres, charities, and other support organisations.
We provide a transformational service to help women feel confident, prepared, and equipped to succeed in job interviews and move into employment. Our support includes:
- Personal Styling & Workwear – Each client receives a free, high-quality interview outfit, tailored to their needs, helping them make a strong first impression.
- One-to-One Interview Coaching – Our professional volunteer coaches provide guidance and encouragement to help women feel confident and ready to excel in interviews.
- Post-Employment Support – Once a woman secures a job, she can return for a capsule wardrobe of workwear to support her in her new role.
- Career Coaching – For those not yet at the interview stage, we offer career coaching to help them build confidence and take the next steps towards employment.
A job is more than just financial security—it provides independence, self-belief, and a sense of purpose. Our service has a proven impact, with 63% of the women we support securing a job within a month of their appointment. By helping women overcome barriers to employment, we are changing lives and strengthening communities.
Our activities
To achieve our objectives, Smart Works Bristol provides a welcoming, volunteer-led service where women receive personalised support in a safe and uplifting environment. Our activities include:
- Delivering face-to-face styling and interview coaching appointments at our centre, ensuring women leave feeling prepared and confident.
- Recruiting and training volunteers, including stylists, coaches, and admin support, to provide the highest quality experience for our clients.
- Building partnerships with referral organisations, such as job centres, charities, and women’s support groups, to ensure we reach those who need us most.
- Sourcing high-quality clothing donations from brands and individuals to provide women with professional outfits that help them feel their best.
- Fundraising and awareness-raising to sustain and grow our service, ensuring we can support as many women as possible into employment.