Guidance for Employers

There are 484,900 refugees who have sought safety in the UK. Employment is key to refugee integration, yet unemployment among refugees is four times the national average.

Half of all refugees in the UK hold A-Levels or higher qualifications, yet only 43% are employed in roles matching their skills. This deep underemployment is a significant waste of talent and has detrimental impact on people’s mental health. 

Asylum seekers – from engineers, to doctors, to skilled workers – are excluded from working while their claims are processed – a lengthy average of 39 weeks. Surviving on as little as £7 a day or £8.86 a week in full board accommodation, they are unable to contribute their skills and potential to the UK. This prolonged wait can lead to CV gaps and professional deskilling.

Even after gaining refugee status, the pressure to find housing and secure benefits within 28 days often forces people into low-paid, unsuitable work, increasing their risk of labour exploitation.

That’s why we are working with our network to advance refugee employment in the UK. Read more about how your business can employ refugees to rebuild their lives, thrive in the workforce, integrate into society, and contribute to the UK economy.