Since 2019, Oxfam's Second Hand September has inspired thousands of us to shop in a way that's kinder to people and planet. By shopping pre-loved, you are saving items from ending up in landfill. Most of the donations that comprise the pre-loved market have plenty of life left in them.
Our charity partner, Smart Works Scotland, actively extends the lifespan of clothing by giving your donations to a woman in need. Our flagship is an official clothing donation point. We invite you to drop off your pre-loved clothes throughout September (and every other month) to support Smart Works Scotland in their mission to give unemployed women the clothes, coaching and confidence to secure employment and change their lives.
Ahead of our second event of the year, we sat down with the team to ask whether clothing is, actually, our superpower.
"When a client visits us for her dressing session, we see an immediate shift in her confidence the moment she walks out of the changing room, knowing that she’s found that perfect interview outfit."
The work you do means that 69% of your clients go on to get a job within one month of their appointment with you. Is clothing our superpower?
At Smart Works Scotland, we believe in fashion as a force for good. When a client visits us for her dressing session, we see an immediate shift in her confidence the moment she walks out of the changing room, knowing that she’s found that perfect interview outfit. We’ve all felt the mood-changing power of a great outfit and the way our wardrobe choices hold such influence over our emotions. We’re lucky enough to see this every day as our clients leave our centre after their appointment with their shoulders back and heads held high, ready to conquer their interview and change their lives.
At the heart of Smart Works Scotland sits a dressing and coaching service designed to help your clients be the best version of themselves at a crucial moment in their lives. What types of clothing do your clients gravitate towards the most?
Thanks to our retail partners and local donations from supporters, our wardrobe is very expansive allowing every client to express their own personal style. Each client feels her best in something different which is the real beauty in our dressing service. The quality of the clothing allows clients to feel and look their best, unlocking their own potential.
Aside from clothing and monetary donations, how can our customers support Smart Works Scotland?
Smart Works Scotland has an incredible community of supporters and there are so many ways to get involved in the important work that we do for unemployed women.
Aside from clothing and monetary donations you can attend our fundraising events including our Fashion Sales and Fashion & Fizz events, apply to be a volunteer, take part in Cycle for Smart Works, our biggest annual fundraising challenge, organise a clothing drive or nominate us to be your Charity Partner of the Year at your workplace.
The best way to keep up-to-date and be the first to hear about our upcoming event is to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Insta
