All Change! LNER Supports Women On Track For Success
05/08/2025
A charity which works to change women’s lives has received vital funding from the LNER Customer and Community Investment Fund.
Smart Works Leeds provides support for women searching for employment. As well as identifying job opportunities which match their skill set, the team provides coaching for women, and a confidence-boosting interview outfit chosen from its extensive wardrobe of brand new and donated clothing. When Smart Works’ clients are successful in securing a role, it provides a selection of clothing, helping women to feel comfortable in their first month and ease the initial cost of purchasing work clothes.
LNER funding helps the charity to deliver its transformational service, resulting in the majority of Smart Works clients finding employment within a month. The demand is such that the team is preparing to move to bigger premises in Leeds, which will include an LNER-sponsored dressing room, along with spaces sponsored by other local businesses.
Lottie Roberts, Outreach and Communications Manager at Smart Works Leeds, said: “We are thrilled to have the support of LNER, which has invested in our service through its Customer and Community Investment Fund. As a strong supporter of our work, we are excited to continue our partnership over the years to come.”
Rachael Wilson, Community Investment Manager at LNER, said: “The support Smart Works Leeds provides is life changing. The fact that two thirds of the women the team works with go on to secure a job within a month reflects the real value of the service. LNER is incredibly proud to play a part in Smart Works Leeds ever growing success and the difference the team makes to people’s lives.”
LNER has shared a short film which shows the transformational impact of Smart Works Leeds.
