PROM-Unity 2025: powered by our community
Last summer, we shared the story of PROM-Unity - our initiative to make sure no young person misses out on their prom because of financial worries.
This year between April and June, we were back with more rails of dresses, many more suits, and some new faces lending a hand. All so that we can help teenagers feel confident, included, and celebrated.
PROM-Unity is not a solo effort.
What stood out most this time wasn’t just the number of outfits or the sparkle in the room (though there was plenty of that). It was the sheer breadth of support we felt around us.
In our second year, more than ever, it felt like the whole community turned up alongside us.
Support from local schools
We couldn't do this without the trusted relationships we’ve built with local schools. Great Baddow High School and Endeavour School were just two who worked closely with us from the planning stage all the way through to the drop in days.
They not only helped identify young people who might benefit but also encouraged them to get involved and reassured families along the way.
We also worked with Chelmsford College and their fashion and textile students. They were available to help anyone who selected a suit or dress with any alterations that might be needed.
Their support is a quiet but vital part of what makes PROM-Unity work so well.
“A huge thank you. Prom can be very expensive and put a lot of pressure on families, but with the help from Kids Inspire several students from the school were kitted out with beautiful dresses and suits that had been donated. ”
A touch of glam and generosity
We were thrilled to be joined by a local beauty academy again this year. Once more, Debut Academy offered their time and talents to make sure everyone felt their best - from hair and makeup tips to full transformations on the day of the Great Baddow High School prom. Their presence added a real buzz to the event and gave young people a chance to feel properly pampered.
And thanks to a generous wave of clothing donations – particularly suits, which we had fewer of last year – we were able to offer more choice to more students. Every hanger represented someone’s kindness. Every outfit helped a young person feel seen.
The magic behind the scenes
Of course, none of this happens without the dedication of our team and volunteers. From sorting and steaming clothes to creating a welcoming space where teenagers could feel at ease, they put in the hours to make the magic happen. Many stayed late or came in early, going that extra mile.
They’re not always in the spotlight, but they’re the reason PROM-Unity runs as smoothly and warmly as it does.
“The friendly staff were amazing and made the experience such a pleasure. It gave us the opportunity to get a lovely dress when we might not have been able to otherwise.”
Together, we made it happen
PROM-Unity isn’t just an event on one day. It’s a reminder of what’s possible when a community rallies around its young people. It’s about lifting each other up and showing teenagers that they matter.
To every school, every donor, every volunteer, and every partner who helped make it happen: thank you. You’ve helped create more than just memories - you’ve helped build confidence and connection that lasts far beyond one evening.
“What you do is absolutely amazing. My daughters are so happy with their dresses and shoes. Thank you to everyone who gave dresses and contributed their time to make this event happen.”
We would love to hear from you if you were one of those who got a dress, suit or outfit from us. Below are a few pictures that some young people and families shared with us from their prom day - all wearing a prom outfit they got from our event.
