'Gok Wan-style' fashion makeovers offered for job jobless by Maidstone-based Golding Homes with Job Centre Plus
Published: 00:01, 23 December 2013
Jobseekers are being offered Gok Wan-style makeovers for job interviews.
Maidstone housing association Golding Homes, in partnership with Job Centre Plus, is offering the Dress to Impress service to tenants who have secured interviews.
Those referred to the scheme will be offered a one-to-one consultation with an employment advisor.
They will be able to choose and keep an outfit that suits them and receive tips on how to make a good impression on a potential employer.
The organisation bought a box of brand new clothes from Kind Direct – a group founded by the Prince of Wales that redistributes surplus goods from retailers to UK charities.
The stock includes a range of brands such as Adidas, Sweaty Betty and Helly Hansen.
Nathalie Rajatonirina, who is originally from Madagascar but now lives in Shepway is one of the recent success stories.
Juliet Shand, a Golding Homes' employment advisor said: "Nathalie had moved to the UK with her husband's job, but her poor English skills affected her confidence.
"She came along to our Job Club, where we were able to help her with English, job searches and applications.
"Once she had secured an interview, the Dress to Impress scheme swung into action. She tried on different clothes, but this red dress suited her best and boosted her confidence. It obviously worked because she was offered the job."
Donations of unwanted stock are welcome from other outlets to help expand the project.
For more information about the Dress to Impress scheme, phone Juliet Shand at Golding Homes on 0800 923 2700.
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