Smart Works Christmas Carol Concert

Following a successful inaugural concert in 2025, Smart Works Reading brings back its festive fundraiser with a programme of carols, a community gospel choir and a British mezzo-soprano.

Smart Works Reading, the charity that helps unemployed women succeed at job interviews through its free dressing and coaching service, is hosting its Christmas Carol Concert at Reading Minster on Tuesday 8th December 2026.

Following a huge success last year, the evening returns with a programme of music and carols featuring the Reading Community Gospel Choir, the Berkshire Music Trust Children's Choir and British mezzo-soprano Harriet Kirk, alongside inspiring speakers and surprise guests.

“Following such a special evening last year, we couldn’t wait to bring the Carol Concert back. It’s a magical start to the festive season, and it means a great deal to know that everyone in the room is helping local women into work,” says Sim Scavazza, Interim Chair of Smart Works Reading.

Every penny of ticket proceeds goes directly to Smart Works Reading, helping local women facing barriers to employment access the interview clothing, coaching and confidence they need to secure a job.

Smart Works Reading provides clients with an interview-ready outfit to keep, followed by one-to-one coaching with an HR professional. The charity supports women referred from job centres, prisons, refugee organisations, mental health charities and other support services. 69% of women who visit Smart Works Reading go on to secure a job within a month.

Join us for a joyful festive evening with friends and family, enjoy the music and carols, and give back to a local charity making a real difference to women’s lives.