A Bath charity that helps women who have a job interview but no appropriate outfit to wear to it is celebrating a notable landmark.
1st Impressions has styled more than 200 women since its launch just over two years ago – and is now calling for more volunteers so it can provide its invaluable service to more job hunters.
The charity was founded by staff in the University of Bath’s School of Management who collect high-quality donations of workwear.
They then offer individual styling sessions to help women access a professional outfit – and boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Staff and students across the university and women from the city make up a small, friendly team of volunteers.
The idea was the brainchild of lecturer Dr Jane Ellis-Brush, pictured above, who realised the extensive corporate wardrobe she had built up while in a previous job with a global bank could be put to good use.
Now 1st Impressions’ co-director, she is hoping to welcome new volunteers to join the charity to sustain its achievements.
“We are a tiny charity, run completely by volunteers, making a big difference to the women we support,” said Jane
“We offer a warm and encouraging space for the women we meet, and the transformation when people leave us is quite special.
“It’s not just about the clothes, it’s the confidence and self-belief that it gives women, ahead of a job interview, for starting their job hunt, or for embarking on a new venture.”
The 1st Impressions team has not only welcomed clients to its boutique in Fairfield House, Weston, but have also taken pop-ups to job centres and job fairs in Bath and Bristol and as far afield as Yeovil and Newport.
Bee Harding-Bentley came across the charity through an event hosted at Yate job centre.
Bee, pictured, said: “From the moment I walked in I was made to feel confident and at ease. They really helped me to find the balance of my own style and professional wear, in a fun, helpful way.
“I learned a lot from our session and feel I am now able to walk into an interview feeling confident that I am presenting myself in a way that I am both comfortable with, and that shows I am suited to the job.”
The charity also regularly supports women at HMP Eastwood Park, finding suitable outfits ahead of release, as well as for court appearances.
It has helped survivors of domestic abuse in partnership with Plymouth charity Gifted Women along with Ukrainian and Afghan refugees settled in Bath and Bristol.
1st Impressions needs volunteers to sort through donated clothes, prepare outfit selections for women and to run its pop-up sessions.
There are also opportunities to help promote the charity and undertake administrative tasks.
Jane Ellis-Brush added: “It’s a really rewarding and enjoyable experience to meet women needing our help, from all walks of life, and our volunteers make a great team.
“No experience is needed and we would love to hear from people who think they can spare some time to help us reach more women.”
For more information on 1st Impressions visit https://www.1stimpressions.org.uk/ To discuss volunteering for the charity, contact Jane@1stimpressions.org.uk
