We’re excited to announce Newcastle Building Society as our newest Gold Partner. Accompanied with a donation of £10,000 the organisation not only have donated to us financially but also donated their time to our services with staff teams from the Society volunteering in our centre, supporting with events and fundraising as well as committed future support with our upcoming office move.

The funding has been provided by the Newcastle Building Society Community Fund at the Community Foundation North East.

Andrew Haigh CEO of Newcastle Building Society shares: We’re so proud to partner with Smart Works Newcastle, a charity whose mission to empower women through employment aligns perfectly with our own purpose of connecting our communities with a better financial future.

“Work and opportunity is a strategic community priority for us, and supporting Smart Works means our members are helping to open doors for women across the North East – whether they’re stepping into the world of work for the first time or returning after time away.

“Along with our new Monument branch in the city centre, the partnership underlines our commitment to the people and communities in the region.

Our Head of Centre, Helen also shares: “Women still face so many barriers to work, so our aim is to break down the barriers of self-confidence and interview clothing to help our clients see their potential and secure employment and financial independence, which we know has a positive impact on children, families and the wider economy. Though based in Newcastle, our service is for women across the North East and our partnership with Newcastle Building Society will help us reach women across the region”.

Though the North East still remains the highest rates for unemployment in the country, Newcastle Building Society's support makes a significant contribution to helping us empower 1000 women a year into employment.

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