Smart Works Leeds, a women’s employability charity based in Yorkshire, is appealing for new supporters as they look to expand their offering.
The charity offers free coaching and interview dressing services, and has supported more than 3,000 women across Yorkshire, with more than two thirds of the people supported by Smart Works in employment within one month of their appointment.
To meet increased demand, and with their current centre lacking sufficient space, the charity is looking to move to larger premises, which would allow them to support up to 100 women a week, with four dressing and coaching rooms.
Yorkshire company High Speed Training, a long term corporate partner of Smart Works Leeds, have become the first cornerstone supporters of the new centre, donating £10,000 to help cement the move. Their donation was matched by Big Give’s Small Charity Week to provide £20,000 to the charity.
High Speed Training, who are based in Ilkley, are a provider of e-learning and online training courses, and since 2023 have supported Smart Works Leeds with delivering Jobs Fairs and fundraising events.
Tracy Fletcher, chair of the board at Smart Works Leeds, said: “For many years, High Speed Training has been one of our core supporters. Previously they have sponsored our jobs fairs, donated volunteering hours and technology and gifted training courses to our clients. We are thrilled that High Speed Training has continued to invest in Smart Works, our mission and the women we support.
“By becoming our first cornerstone supporter, High Speed Training is playing a pivotal role in opening the doors to our new centre. With their support, we will be able to offer our vital service to the thousands of women across Yorkshire that need us.”
Amy Mortimer, head of social impact at High Speed Training, said: “Having supported Smart Works Leeds for a while, we know how they are exceptionally driven to achieve the best outcomes for women who are struggling to find work across Yorkshire.
“When they approached us about helping to fund the new centre, we were delighted to be able to play a part in making their ambition possible. Smart Works Leeds bring energy, compassion, and a service that gets results. High Speed Training are proud to be a part of that and take this wonderful opportunity to have a positive impact on individual’s lives and our local economy.”
Smart Works Leeds are appealing for other local businesses to support the new centre, with varying levels of sponsorship packages starting from £500.
