Fitted for Work gains $30,000 grant to support women to get back into the workforce

Job-readiness support organisation Fitted for Work has been awarded a grant of $30,000 from the William Buckland Foundation, which will aid in the delivery of 12 months of tailored and holistic services supporting women to upskill, build confidence and resilience, and prepare to re-enter employment as the economy turns.

 

Fitted for Work is a not-for-profit group that empowers women and non-binary people experiencing disadvantage with the practical skills, self-esteem and know-how to help them move forward in the workplace.

 

“Over two thirds of Australian women are over-represented in casual and part-time roles and are almost twice as likely to be underemployed, making them vulnerable to financial insecurity and unemployment during times of adversity,” Donna De Zwart, Managing Director of Fitted for Work explained, sharing her gratitude for the “much needed” grant. 

 

Services provided by Fitted for Work project are tailored to meet individual needs and can be accessed in a variety of methods including online, via a dedicated service app, self-paced individual and group training webinars, face to face appointments and over the phone.

 

Dr Jane Gilmour OAM, William Buckland Foundation Chair, shared the reason for the selection of Fitted for Work at this juncture in history. 

 

“The global pandemic has further affected women’s economic security and we recognise that not-for-profit organisations like Fitted for Work are operating in financially challenging times,” Dr Gilmour said. 

 

The funds will be orchestrated in conjunction with co-trustee Equity Trustees, a leading source of philanthropic grants in Australia as manager and trustee of more than 600 charitable trusts.

 

“Right now, as people return to CBD offices in our major cities, it’s important that those who are experiencing disadvantage have the opportunity and support to start again and create their future,” Carol Schwartz AO, Chair of Equity Trustees shared. “Fitted for Work is an incredible organisation doing essential work to support many who have been worst impacted by the pandemic.”

 

The announcement falls ahead of International Women’s Day which is acknowledged on 8 March. In 2022, the International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias which encourages communities around the world to work towards a world free of bias, stereotypes; that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive; and where women’s equality is universal.