Smart Works Leeds has raised a record-breaking £25,000 through its International Women’s Day campaign after staging a week of events across Yorkshire.
The charity, which helps unemployed women prepare for work through interview coaching and professional clothing, said the 2026 campaign was its biggest programme of activity yet. Supported by headline sponsor Leeds First Direct Bank Arena, the campaign brought together inspiring stories, community fundraising and business backing to generate vital funds for the organisation’s services. The £25,000 total is the highest amount ever raised through Smart Works Leeds’ annual International Women’s Day campaign and will support its work helping women into employment.
Supporters took part in a packed week of events, including a breakfast panel at Leeds’ First Direct Arena, a charity Abseil at the Cow and Calf rocks in Ilkley, and a fashion sale at Bradford’s Darley Street Market. A Women’s Wealth and Wellbeing day at Grantley Hall, hosted by Proper Financial founder Suz Ferreira, also raised £6,000.
One of the campaign’s standout moments came at the Cow and Calf Abseil challenge, where 60 women descended the iconic Ilkley landmark in support of the charity. Participants included Primed for Life, a collective of four high-profile Yorkshire women promoting the visibility and wellbeing of women of all ages, and former BBC The Apprentice winner Rachel Woolford. They were cheered on by supporters including Coronation Street actress Natalie Anderson.
Alongside the flagship events, a range of partner-led activities helped extend the campaign into workplaces and communities across the region.
Smart Works Leeds chair Tracy Fletcher said:
“We are absolutely thrilled that our first ever week-long International Women’s Day campaign has raised a record £25,000. The level of support from businesses, partners and individuals across Yorkshire has been incredible and we are so grateful to everyone who took part, donated or helped organise events.
“These funds will make a real difference, helping us support even more women into employment giving them the confidence, opportunity and access to support that can transform their lives. Thanks to the generosity of the Yorkshire community, many more women will now receive the coaching, clothing and encouragement they need to succeed in their careers.”
Established in 2019, Smart Works Leeds is part of the wider Smart Works network, a fast-growing UK charity that supports unemployed women into employment. Through interview coaching and high-quality workwear, the charity helps women build confidence, fulfil their potential and improve their chances of finding a job.
Last year, Smart Works supported more than 10,000 women across the UK, with more than 1,000 of those in Leeds. According to the charity, 67 per cent of clients secured a job within one month of their appointment, helping them achieve financial independence and transform their lives.
For more information about Smart Woks, please visit www.leeds.smartworks.org.uk
