James Hall & Co helps create community Workwear Bank

James Hall & Co. Ltd has enhanced its support for Preston’s Community Gateway Association by supporting the creation of a Workwear Bank.

The new initiative has seen several wardrobes worth of good-quality second-hand clothing donated by staff who work at the company’s Bowland View head office and distribution centre.

Launched to support CGA’s residents and tenants, the idea is to help them around dignity and provide those who are struggling to afford smart clothes with a sense of worth at interview, and when at work.

James Hall & Co. Ltd already supports CGA with donations of food to its Purple Pantry store at Moor Nook Community Office in Langden Drive where CGA residents and tenants can access heavily discounted food through a token purchasing scheme.

With the new Workwear Bank, CGA will hold organised drop-in sessions at its head office at Harbour House and will be delivering pop-up job clubs throughout the communities of Preston.

People can come and get help and support from their specialist Employability Team on CV writing, job advice, take part in training, and also access workwear for free.

Emily Bingham, recruitment coordinator at James Hall & Co. Ltd, said: “I’m absolutely delighted that colleagues have really put the effort in to support our clothing drive and create a Workwear Bank.

“The cost-of-living crisis has affected everyone, but especially those who find themselves unemployed and searching for work.

“Having the appropriate clothing for an interview or first few weeks of work can be an added stress to those who are already feeling the stretch and leave them with a sense of worthlessness.

“It’s a great feeling to know that through our efforts, we can help address this issue and encourage people to attend interviews or even their first day.”

Sian Coulton, community engagement manager at Community Gateway Association, said: “We are really pleased to be working in partnership with James Hall & co. Ltd on the Workwear Bank.

“As an organisation we offer support to our tenants and residents across Preston, helping them remove barriers and take that next step.

“We often find people struggle with both interview and workwear attire, so this project will be key to enable them to attend interviews and enter the working world.

“We also understand that with the cost of living rising, those already working may need support to access workwear to help them sustain their employment and, therefore, all Community Gateway tenants and residents will be able to access the Workwear Bank.”

For more information or to access the Workwear Bank, please call 0800 953 0213 or email [email protected].

James Hall & Co. Ltd is SPAR UK’s primary wholesaler and distributor for the North of England. The company serves a network of 600 independent SPAR retailers and company owned SPAR stores six days a week from its base in Preston, Lancashire.

You can find out more about James Hall & Co. Ltd at www.jameshall.co.uk.