The Military Lodge

Suited & Booted is a charity that helps vulnerable men make the most of their abilities in finding suitable employment. The charity has received £5000 from London Freemasons. Over 1400 men passed through the fitting room doors last year having been referred by over 200 agencies. They come from all walks of life; ex-military chaps finding it difficult to adapt to civilian life, ex-prisoners, recovering alcoholics and some with mental health issues.

Graeme is a 44 year old ex-Royal Marine with 24 years’ service. He explained how through a series of misfortunes, he ended up homeless and on the streets. He was referred to the charity and expressed how his life had been turned around with their support, interview advice, guidance and most of all a smartly fitted suit. With his military and IT experience, Graeme went on to secure a job and now helps the charity when he can.

Appearance and presentation are vital in today’s interview market. 16 year old Reece was referred by his local authority. Once he was fitted out with his Saville Row suit he left with a beaming smile and full of confidence. He was ready to take on the challenge of his interview with a leading sports retailer.

Dr Maria Lenn claimed “We have had an increased demand from the agencies we work with for help dealing with young people and ex-offenders. So we wanted to set up a project targeted at these specific groups, and the funding we have received from the Masonic Charitable Fund will help us do this. The problems facing young persons (i.e. 16 – 24 years) often arise from family poverty or issues with gangs. We shall be working with agencies such as Resurgo Spear, The Prince’s Trust, Key4LIfe and social services, to help these young men get jobs.”

Dr Lenn went on to say “It is difficult to exaggerate how the help we give transforms not just the appearance, but also the morale and self-confidence of the clients we see. From feedback we estimate that nearly three quarters of those we see succeed in getting the job for which they are being interviewed.”