New programmes for women joining the workforce

Many Cantabrians know of the global women’s organisation Dress for Success as a charity which supports women on low or no income, ensuring poor interview presentation does not create a barrier to employment opportunity.

Now a pilot programme, partly funded by Canterbury Community Trust and using knowledge and experience gained from 65 other affiliate offices around the world, sees Dress for Success launching a new job-retention programme in Christchurch, the only branch of the organisation in the South Island.

Under the new programme, clients previously dressed and groomed for interview and entering employment are invited to participate in monthly meetings, with direct access to expert speakers on a range of topics pertinent to women entering the workforce. They will build a network of support in an informal environment, building on knowledge and skills gained from their peers and the experience of the charity’s trained volunteers.

“Our strength is collaboration,” says Caroline Johnson, Executive Manager. “Liaising with 50 registered referral agencies ensures we maximise opportunities to serve the most economically disadvantaged women in our local community. Our programmes help women improve their self-esteem and support their families by getting employment and building their careers.”

Caroline says getting a job can be a challenging and lengthy process and the support of other women can make a world of difference, both during and after the position is gained. “We know many women fall out of employment because of a lack of quite simple intervention and support, so during their transition we aim to improve their ‘stickability’.”

Dress for Success Christchurch fundraises its entire operating cost and relies heavily on public contributions. If you are able to join a new programme for financial (rather than clothing) supporters, gifts of any size will be gratefully received at Dress for Success Christchurch, P.0 Box 13187 Armagh Christchurch. or visit website www.dressforsuccess.org/christchurch.

ENDS

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