Smart Works Yorkshire Get Building Materials Boost

We've announced Smart Works Yorkshire as a runner-up in our 2026 Community Heroes initiative, recognising the charity’s commitment to empowering local women and helping them to secure employment opportunities.

The charity was selected by a panel including celebrity judge and TV tradesperson, Rob Bent. The campaign was relaunched this year, after research found that half of Brits (48%) say community spaces have disappeared in their neighbourhoods.

Smart Works Yorkshire, based in Leeds, supports unemployed women by providing free interviews and coaching, offering career support and even supplying professional clothing. By equipping women with the confidence, skills and practical support they need to succeed, Smart Works helps them to overcome barriers, secure employment and move towards greater financial independence.

Thanks to the Community Heroes win, Smart Works Yorkshire will receive £1,000 credit to spend in their local branch, Selco Leeds Roundhay. The funding will be used to build two permanent coaching rooms in their centre, to ensure they can keep up with demand for their services and support an additional 10 women per day at the centre.

Emily Zadok, Head of Smart Works Yorkshire, said: “It feels fantastic to have been chosen as a Community Heroes runner-up for September, and we’re incredibly grateful to Selco. The support will contribute towards the building costs for our new coaching rooms and, most importantly, will help us to deliver up to 100 additional coaching sessions every week.

“Smart Works Yorkshire helps unemployed women get back into the workforce through confidence building, high-quality coaching sessions and dressing appointments designed to help get them the job, believe in themselves and change the trajectory of their lives.”

Now in its sixth year - and with a bigger prize fund than ever before at £62,000 – the Selco Community Heroes initiative is designed to benefit small community projects that are building brighter futures for their local areas.

David Lennon, Commercial Director at Selco, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Smart Works Yorkshire as they continue to have a lasting impact on women in the local community, helping them build the confidence and skills they need to take the next step in their careers. We hope that our Community Heroes funding will make a meaningful contribution towards their new coaching rooms and help them reach even more women who need their support.”

Local charities and community projects are encouraged to find out more about Community Heroes and apply online.