The Parently Group has been a long‑standing and valued Wood Street Hero, with a partnership rooted in shared purpose and community. As they explained, “We have been honoured to work in partnership with Wood Street Mission, over a number of years, to help deliver the brilliant Smart Start initiative.” With their David Luke school uniform business beginning in Gorton in 1982, the connection felt natural: “Our connection to and alignment with Wood Street and their work supporting children across Manchester and Salford was clear.”
Their support throughout 2025 has been both practical and heartfelt. “The Smart Start partnership continued and has enabled school uniform essentials to reach families who need them most.” Their team loves getting involved, especially at events like the “amazing Back to School Quiz,” which “brings out their competitiveness and team spirit for a really fun night.” Fundraising has taken other forms too, with the “Parently Paddlers taking part in a really fun dragon boat racing event,” and many team members “excited to volunteer for the Wood Street Christmas Appeal each year,” a tradition they describe as “a wonderful way to feel the true spirit of the festive period.”
For The Parently Group, the most rewarding part is knowing the impact is immediate. As they put it, “A uniform isn’t just clothing – it’s confidence. Through Smart Start, we’re supporting children walk into school feeling equal and ready to learn.” And seeing their team unite around this purpose makes it even more meaningful: “Seeing our team come together through initiatives like the Parently Paddlers makes doing it for Wood Street even more special.”
Their whole organisation embraces the partnership: “Everyone at The Parently Group sees Wood Street as a key part of how we can all give something to those who need it most.” They describe a strong connection with the charity, sharing that “we have a strong connection to the work done by the brilliant team at Wood Street, and so this helps to get everyone engaged with support.”
When reflecting on the reality that 93,000 children in Manchester and Salford are living in poverty, their message is clear and hopeful: “The statistics are overwhelming, but change starts with action. Whether you donate, fundraise, or raise awareness, every contribution matters. When businesses and communities each do their part, the collective impact is powerful.” And to anyone considering supporting Wood Street Mission, their advice is simple: “Do it. Wood Street Mission delivers practical, dignified support where it’s needed most… you can see the difference your support makes in such a tangible, local way.”
Looking ahead, their commitment remains strong. “We already have team members who have their name down for the Christmas Appeal,” and they shared proudly that “one of the team has put her hand up to participate in a sponsored swim.” Most importantly, they reaffirm their dedication to Smart Start: “We’re so committed to growing the impact of the Smart Start partnership with Wood Street and so this will remain a big feature of our year.”
Congratulations on being a Wood Street Hero 2025 and thank you for your dedicated support to Wood Street Mission!
