Suitable way to help homeless find work

The Living Room’s Suit Amnesty campaign has been launched to coincide with Poverty and Homelessness Action Week.

Staff are urging people to dig out their unwanted suits and leave them on a rack in the bar, at Oxford Castle.

They will then be professionally dry-cleaned and handed on to charities which help homeless people.

Suits will also be given to school leavers trying to get their first job and unemployed people aiming to get back into work.

Living Room general manager Anna Johnson said: “There must be thousands of unwanted suits gathering dust in wardrobes all over Oxford, but equally many more people without enough money to be able to afford one.

“The idea for the amnesty was born of the thought that those in the fortunate position of working in business could actually make a huge difference to people who are looking for jobs, by donating their suits.

“Very often there are people from less privileged backgrounds who don’t have access to funds and are trying to get into work but want and need some help to get on to the career ladder.”

She said: “Owning a good suit is something most of us take for granted, so to give young and homeless people a step closer towards getting on to the employment ladder is a great gift.”

Among the charities and hostels set to benefit is Oxford Homeless Pathways, which provides accommodation and day services at O’Hanlon House, in Luther Street and Julian Housing, in Cowley Road.

Chief executive Lesley Dewhurst said: “This is a brilliant initiative, which will be of great help to homeless people who are getting back into employment.

“Suits carry a lot of status and can make people feel really good about themselves.

“They’re also a great equaliser, leaving the wearer able to demonstrate their skills on a level playing field, rather than sticking out as someone who might have a different background from other candidates.”

The amnesty runs until March 31. Those who donate suits will get a Living Room food voucher.