Celebrating International Women's Day 2024 - Smart Works Newcastle

This Friday is International Women's Day. A global day to celebrate the achievements of women worldwide, and a call to action for the acceleration of equality.

This year's theme is #InspireInclusion, and VONNE is showcasing some of the inspirational work of our member organisations working with women in the North East.

VONNE Silver Members Smart Works Newcastle have supported over 2,000 women in the North East into employment since they opened in 2018.

Giving women the confidence, self-belief and the practical tools they require to succeed at interview and start a new chapter of their life, the charity provides a free interview outfit and 1:1 coaching for clients ahead of interview.

Working in close partnership with almost 300 referral agencies throughout the North East, 56% of the women they have supported have been unemployed for 12+ months, 45% are single parents and 14% have a disability.

Helping women into work can boost their confidence, help them be a role model to their children, bring income into their local economy, and be active members of their community. The positive impact of Smart Works services on their clients, their families and the region cannot be understated.

Every month, the charity supplies 400 items of clothing to support local women on their journey into work, and they rely on clothing donations to enable this. You can find out more about how to make a donation by visiting their website at- Donate Your Clothes - Newcastle Smart Works.

In support of Smart Works Newcastle, Hobbs Metro Centre is demonstrating their commitment to empowering women this International Women’s Day by generously running a clothing collection. People can drop off a pre-loved item in exchange for a raffle ticket, or purchase a raffle ticket to win a Hobbs voucher. All donated items and raffle income will be donated directly to Smart Works Newcastle to support women on their journey into employment.