Step Up, so that other women can step forward
Smart Works has been helping women transform their lives through employment since 2013. By providing high‑quality interview clothing and one‑to‑one coaching, we help women unlock the confidence, self-belief and practical skills they need to succeed at a job interview. More than 10,000 women have walked through our doors, and at least 68% have gone on to secure a job.
But the need is growing. With unemployment rising, women are facing tougher barriers than ever. Many tell us their confidence has taken a sharper hit, and on average they apply for 42 jobs before reaching Smart Works. In this climate, our service isn’t just relevant — it’s essential.
This May, we're asking you to Step Up so that many more women can step out of unemployment and into new beginnings.
How to register
Sign up & recruit your teammates
Create a team or go solo. Are you taking on 10,000, 15,000 or 20,000 steps a day?
If you're taking part as a team, invite your teammates to join you directly as you sign up, or by sharing the link from your page.
Personalise your page
We recommend adding a profile pic as a minimum. Once you've done this, your page is ready to be shared!
Get ready to Step Up!
Make the most of participant resources and the social sharing options on your page.
This is Shantelle's story
“I’ve applied for over 150 jobs in two years. Yet every rejection reminds me the odds are stacked against people like me.”
I live in North Yorkshire. For the past two years, I’ve been searching for work. During that time, I’ve had a few short-term roles, but nothing lasting. It’s been frustrating and exhausting. I’m Black and disabled and navigating the job market often feels impossible.
In trying to find employment, I approached applications methodically. I tracked every role I applied for, stopping only after 150 applications in six months. I’m very meticulous. If I’m applying for a job, I’ll go through the job description line by line, make sure my CV matches, tweak my cover letter, and then submit.
Despite all this effort, responses were inconsistent. Agencies often ghosted me, especially when my applications didn’t generate profit. Feedback was usually generic, even after interviews, positive feedback didn’t translate into offers. You feel good about yourself for a moment, but then there’s nothing actionable. You’re left wondering what went wrong.
"Smart Works helped me understand how to present myself, navigate bias, and gave me the confidence to keep going."
Our impact
“They offered practical advice, but more importantly, they helped me feel prepared. I walked out of that office feeling confident, like myself again.” - TK
“Smart Works didn’t just prepare me for interviews; it helped me find myself again. Once I found my path, I knew I could shape my own future.” - Isabella
“Smart Works made me feel really welcome. They taught me how to tailor my CV, write proper cover letters, and gave me tips for personal statements. They made me feel capable again.”
- Alba
“It’s not just clothes and coaching; it’s guidance and belief.”
“Walking into that interview, I felt prepared and capable, which makes all the difference.”
- Karuna
Can't take part? You can still make a difference with a donation.
Our Fundraisers
Read our FAQs or email stepup@smartworks.org.uk
#stepupforsmartworks
#smartworkscharity
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