Smart Works recognised with King’s Award

A North East charity supporting women into employment has received one of the country’s highest honours for voluntary service.

Smart Works North East has been presented with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service at a ceremony at its new centre on Collingwood Street in Newcastle.

The award recognises the contribution of the charity’s volunteer network in helping women across the region build confidence, gain skills and secure employment.

Presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, the accolade highlights the organisation’s impact since its launch in 2018, during which it has supported more than 3500 women.

Sophie Milliken MBE, chair of Smart Works North East, who earlier this week led a delegation of 50 female founders from across the North East down to Downing Street to showcase regional entrepreneurship and growth, said: “Our volunteers are the driving force helping women in our region to demonstrate the confidence and skills needed to step into the jobs they want. 

“We’re honoured to receive this award and proud to see the hard work of the volunteer team recognised in this way.”

The charity provides coaching, interview preparation and professional clothing to women seeking work, helping to overcome barriers and improve long-term career prospects.

Demand for its services continues to grow as more women look to access support in entering secure employment.

The recognition marks a significant milestone for the organisation, reinforcing its role in supporting social mobility and strengthening communities across the North East through employment opportunities.

Find out more about Smart Works North East and the work they do here.

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.