An initiative to provide job hunters with smart clothes to wear at interviews is now helping others struggling to afford the right attire for formal occasions.
Wendy Haslam set up Well Suited, a not-for-profit community interest company, inspired by the success of a similar scheme in Birmingham.
It began operating in Carlisle in April and recently held an open day to thank supporters and encourage people to donate clothing and shoes.
Wendy said: “We collect unwanted, gently worn, smart clothing so that we can offer a selection to people who might find this a barrier to employment or attending other formal events.
“For example, we helped a gentleman from a homeless hostel who had nothing to wear at a family funeral.
“We had a man who came in for interview clothes. When he saw himself in the mirror, all dressed up, he said, ‘This is how I used to look’. It boosted his confidence.
“We’re connecting communities, promoting sustainability, and supporting young people. I don’t believe there is anyone else in Cumbria offering this sort of support.”
Clients keep the clothes they receive.
Well Suited works closely with You Sall Go to the Ball, which helps young people who cannot afford an outfit for their school prom.
They share collection points at community centres in Longtown and Brampton and at Botcherby, Currock, Harraby, Morton and Denton Holme in Carlisle. Donors can also leave clothing at Tesco at Warwick Road, The Lookout in Raffles and Well Suited’s first-floor premises at 4 Fisher Street, Carlisle.
Wendy is inviting businesses to host suit drives where employees can donate clothes – she is particularly short of smart shoes and smart women’s clothes.
She said: “We put in a collection hamper and a banner with all the information and leave it there for as long as people want it, usually a couple of weeks.”
She is also keen that businesses that raise money for a nominated charity or good cause consider supporting Well Suited.
The initiative is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, the Francis C Scott Trust and Cumberland Council.
Wendy thanked the funders and supporters that have given products or services for free. These include Studio Walden, Carlisle College, PaintWell Carlisle, The Rebuild Site, Caddick Construction and Lush.
