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Motion · S6M-15460 · 13 Nov 2024

Tribute to the Life-changing Work of Smart Works and Smart Works Scotland

Lodged by Russell Findlay (Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party) Standard Motion 25 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament notes the achievements of the charity Smart Works, which was founded in London in 2013, and of its sister charity Smart Works Scotland, which began operating in Edinburgh the following year; pays tribute to Maggie Darling, who was a founding trustee of Smart Works and is now chair of Smart Works Scotland, which opened its Glasgow centre in 2022; acknowledges the role that she and many others have played in the significant expansion of both charities, with 11 centres across the UK; recognises that Smart Works and Smart Works Scotland aim to empower women who are unemployed by providing them with clothing and coaching to prepare them for job interviews, and providing further clothing once employment has been secured; appreciates that Smart Works and Smart Works Scotland have so far supported around 35,000 women; understands that about 40% of women who engage with the charities have been unemployed for over a year and that 12% had unsuccessfully applied for over 100 jobs; further understands that 69% of those supported go on to secure employment; notes that women can be referred to the service through self-referral, state agencies and other charities, including those that provide support for victims of domestic abuse; expresses appreciation to numerous high street retailers that donate clothes to Smart Works and Smart Works Scotland, and pays tribute to the many volunteers who, it believes, are vital to ensuring that both charities can continue to provide their life-changing service.

Supporters (25)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.