For many women trying to turn their lives around—whether they’re facing long-term unemployment, housing insecurity, or rebuilding after a crisis—the first step towards stability is getting into work. That’s where Smart Works Birmingham comes in.
Smart Works is a UK charity with a simple, powerful mission: to help women feel confident and prepared for job interviews by providing high-quality workwear and personalised coaching. But what they offer is far more than just clothes. The experience is designed to boost self-belief, shift mindsets, and support women at a key turning point. In Birmingham and the wider Midlands, this work plays an important role in supporting women on the margins—those who may have faced homelessness, domestic abuse, or financial hardship—and helping them take that crucial step back into the workforce.
This kind of early, tailored support reflects the Positive Pathway model promoted by the West Midlands Combined Authority’s Homelessness Taskforce—a model that focuses on prevention, dignity, and clear routes into stable employment and housing. By offering practical support and encouragement at the point when it’s needed most, Smart Works helps to reduce barriers and open up opportunities, particularly for women who’ve been overlooked or excluded.
And now, they need your help.
|| Smart Works Birmingham is one of those places where something simple—like the right outfit—can make a huge difference. ||
They Need Clothes. Can You Help?
Smart Works Birmingham is urgently calling out for donations of work-appropriate clothing and accessories to meet growing demand. Every item donated helps a woman prepare for an interview or her first days in a new job—feeling capable, confident, and ready.
Here’s what they’re looking for most:
- Women’s clothing in sizes 14 and up
- Smart shoes for interviews and work (all sizes)
- Handbags that suit a professional setting
If you have any gently worn items that are clean, in great condition, and suitable for work, this is a simple and impactful way to support women who are ready to move forward.
How to Donate
To arrange a drop-off or ask questions about what’s needed:
📞 Call: 0121 643 8109
📧 Email: birmingham@smartworks.org.uk
You can also find out more about how to donate on their website
Whether it’s one outfit or a few key pieces, your donation could be the thing that helps someone feel prepared to walk into their interview—and walk out with a job.
We are pleased to have Smart Works Birmingham as part of the Street Support Network and listed on our site, and we are grateful to Lily Clements for keeping it up to date.