Smartworks

We help unemployed women to get the coaching, clothing and confidence they need to secure employment and change the trajectory of their lives. We support women regardless of their unemployment circumstances. Whether you are recently unemployed, coming back to work after a long employment gap or looking for your first ever job, the Smart Works team are here to help you on your journey.

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Smartworks

Smartworks - Interview Dressing and Preparation service

Last updated 04/07/25

At the heart of Smart Works sits an Interview Dressing and Preparation service designed to help our clients feel and look their best in their job interview.

Our dedicated, volunteer-powered team is on hand to help clients feel relaxed, confident and ready to put their best foot forward.

How our service works:

• Interview preparation (Styling)- The two-hour Interview Preparation begins with an Interview Styling session. Each client receives a bespoke, hour-long styling consultation with a trained volunteer, to find a high-quality interview outfit that will fill her with confidence. This is free of charge and the clothes are hers to keep.

• Interview preparation (Coaching)- This is followed by a one-to-one 60-minute coaching session with an expert interview coach, where each client receives valuable interview preparation.

• Second dressing- We are proud that 63% of clients secure a job in a month. Once a woman gets the job, she is welcomed back for a Second Dressing and receives a capsule working wardrobe to last until her first pay cheque.

How to access:

Smart Works operates on a referral basis. Our clients are referred to us from Job Centres, mental health charities, women’s refuges, homeless shelters, the prison service, care service and youth organisations.

We offer appointments at our two Greater Manchester centres as well as virtual appointments over Zoom.

Aimed At:
  • Women and female identifying only
Category:
  • Employability
Referral Type:
  • Referral
Tags:
  • Mentoring
Address
Stockport Volunteer Hub, Merseyway Innovation Centre, 21 – 23, Merseyway, SK1 1PN
Website
https://smartworks.org.uk/
Contact Email
greatermanchester@smartworks.org.uk
Contact Phone
0161 974 0669
Contact Phone
020 7288 1770
Service Capacity
Service is operating at normal capacity.
(last updated - 04/07/25)
Availability

Phone Services

Monday to Friday

Hours: 09:00 - 17:00

Eligibility

Immigration Status: All

Minimum Age: 16

Region: Greater Manchester

To refer your client, please make sure they meet the following criteria: Is unemployed or on a zero-hours contract. Has a confirmed job interview coming up or is seeking support in securing a job interview. Smart Works is here to support all women, including transgender women, and non-binary people who feel their gender expression connects with the Smart Works service and wardrobe.

Interpreters

None available