This week we said goodbye to Helen Sinclair, the founder and previous Chair of Smart Works Newcastle.
Back in 2018 Helen stumbled across Smart Works on the internet and knew that the organisation would be an asset to the North East. She contacted Smart Works regional manager to ask how a Newcastle centre could be made possible. Helen, and three other founding trustees spent the following months recruiting volunteers, locating an office, sourcing stock, and fundraising to ensure Smart Works Newcastle became a reality.
Almost four years later – 3 of which Helen spent as Chair – we have supported over 900 women with 70% of those securing employment. Our team has grown to 30 volunteers, 5 trustees, 10 staff members and 1 ambassador. And we have raised thousands of pounds through fashion sales and fundraising events.
We want to thank Helen for working tirelessly to put Smart Works Newcastle on the map and wish her all the best with her future ventures.