NOT only does BGT\u2019s Barkly Square have classrooms, offices, and community spaces, it has its own clothing wardrobe.<\/p>\n
Coordinated by Sue Jakob, the space houses Styled for Success, a program catering to those in need of an outfit.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnyone who might be facing some financial challenges that needs corporate work or formal wear can come in for a styling session. There\u2019s no referral process,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey might be starting a new job, going for a job interview, starting volunteering, or going to a formal appointment with a solicitor, but may not have the right good quality outfit to wear, so that\u2019s where we come in.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re open to anybody, whether they\u2019re a student, just left school, an older person coming back into the workforce… Anybody who has a need can make a free appointment.\u201d<\/p>\n
The service has been running for two months, with volunteers aiming to ensure people feel ready to attend meetings and events.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s about helping achieve what they want to. One young lass came in, put on a whole outfit, and it was transformative,\u201d Ms Jakob said.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe walked out with the outfit on. She didn\u2019t want to take it off. When you feel good about yourself, that makes a difference.\u201d<\/p>\n
Volunteer Jen Davidson said clients come in with a level of trust, but their confidence grows.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo see what the initial desire might be, and what they end up with, is a lovely process and journey,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s \u201ca magic\u201d fellow volunteer Beth Jakob feels when an outfit works perfectly.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s so fun to help them with that. It gives them a renewed confidence and puts them in a good headspace walking into an interview or appointment,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n