Hawksford launches ‘Suit Amnesty’

James Qualtrough | April 23, 2012 | 0 Comments

Local trust company, Hawksford, is calling on islanders to put their old suits to good use with the launch of a new campaign, ‘Suit Amnesty’.

The campaign has been developed to encourage islanders to re-gift outgrown and unwanted suits to disadvantaged and homeless jobseekers, which will in turn help them back into work. Benefitting local charity, The Shelter Trust (www.shelter.org.je), the scheme helps those keen to find work but unable to afford their own professional work wear.

This national campaign ran for the first time in May 2011 and resulted in more than 2,000 unwanted suits being distributed via 22 different charities across the UK. This will be the first year that the scheme has been operated in Jersey.

Peter Murley, chief executive, Hawksford, said: ‘There must be thousands of unwanted suits gathering dust in wardrobes all over Jersey, and many more people without enough money to be able to afford to buy one. Everyone knows how much presentation counts when going for a job interview, and not owning a suit can be a significant barrier when looking for work. The Suit Amnesty ensures clothing that is no longer needed can be put to good use and help people take their first step onto or indeed get back onto the career ladder. Owning a good suit is something most of us take for granted.’

John Hodge, director at The Shelter Trust said: ‘The Suit Amnesty is a fantastic way to recycle unwanted suits to those who can really benefit from them.

‘The suits are perfect for our back to work projects which are all about getting people off the streets and preparing them for working life. Owning a suit makes a massive difference and will help our service users achieve their full potential,’ he added.

The scheme runs throughout May 2012. To donate a suit, please drop it off, making sure you mark on the size and whether it is for a male or female, at Hawksford, 15 Esplanade (opposite the bus station), St Helier, Jersey JE1 1RB between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.