Forward With Confidence
The Pitch
Problem statement
Men who have recently been through the criminal justice system are often at rock bottom in their lives. Getting employment is a key factor in helping them to move forward. Re-offending rates are known to be significantly lower amongst those who find a job. However, many do not have suitable clothes for a job interview and also lack the experience and skills to go into one with confidence. They also believe their past will count against them.
Solution
This project focuses on helping ex-offenders including prisoners awaiting release, men in half-way hostels, those on probation and others who may be tempted to re-join gangs as a way to make money. Every man who is referred to us gets about an hour's personal attention from a volunteer professional stylist, who fits them with a suit, shirt, tie and accessories. We can also offer interview training. It's not just about making the client look good; the opportunity is taken to build their confidence, especially important with ex-offenders, so they can go into their job interview feeling good about themselves and able to deliver their best. On average each client costs us about £50.
Why are we best placed to deliver?
Suited & Booted was founded in 2012 by Dr Maria Lenn, who was awarded an MBE last year for her work. We are based close to the City of London, but clients are referred to us by literally hundreds of charities, probation officers, job centres, councils and other agencies in Greater London, and some prisons in the Home Counties. We are the only charity in London dedicated to providing this service to men. Since inception we have helped over 13,000 vulnerable unemployed men, including a significant minority who were ex-offenders. Our volunteers have a good understanding of their paricular challenges.
Focus Areas
Delivery plan
Budget breakdown
| 30 clients at an average cost of £50 each | £1,500 |
Beneficiaries
30 people
Who will benefit
Expected impact
All the clients we see leave us not only looking smart, but with their confidence boosted, so they can go into their job interview with their held high, maximising their chance of success. We also know that by improving their self-esteem, we will equip them better to address the many other challenges they may face in their life.We believe that more than half our clients are successful in getting a job. This benefits not just the individual but also his family, and society generally if he doesn't re-offend and isn't dependent on benefits.
Track record
See above