Annie Stirk Smartworks Leeds

Smart Works helps women not only prepare for interviews, but also rediscover belief in themselves.

The impact is significant. Last year alone, Smart Works supported over 10,000 women across the UK, with more than 1,000 supported in Leeds.  Within one month of their appointment, 67% of clients secured employment, gaining financial independence and transforming their lives.

Annie’s support for Smart Works Leeds reflects her long-standing commitment to: Age inclusion and pro-age representation Diversity and equality Supporting women into meaningful, sustainable work Through her advocacy and her work with organisations such as Age UK, Annie understands how easily capable women can be overlooked because of age, circumstance, or confidence. Smart Works Leeds directly addresses these barriers—making it a cause Annie genuinely believes in and is proud to champion.

As part of Smart Works Leeds’ biggest-ever programme for International Women’s Day 2026, Annie is taking part in a charity abseil at the Cow and Calf Rocks in Ilkley.  The event takes place on Sunday 8th March 2026. She will be abseiling alongside fellow members of Primed For Life (Christine Talbot, Rachel Peru & Bernadette Gledhill), a collective of women promoting visibility, wellbeing, and opportunity for women of all ages. The abseil is a powerful symbol of: Courage and confidence at every stage of life Women supporting women Stepping forward, even when it feels challenging Funds raised will directly support Smart Works Leeds’ life-changing employment services.

Smart Works Leeds’ International Women’s Day campaign brings together storytelling, sport, community, and action to celebrate women and raise essential funds. For Annie, this partnership is about using her platform to support real change—helping women move forward with confidence, dignity, and opportunity. By supporting Smart Works Leeds, Annie continues her work as a visible role model for age inclusion, diversity, and women supporting women into work.