As they attempt to start again, refugees and asylum seekers in the UK face several obstacles. Many face additional barriers to employment and support after being compelled to abandon their homes, families, and occupations in pursuit of safety.
While many asylum seekers are keen to work and contribute to their new communities, living as a refugee in the United Kingdom offers opportunities and challenges.
Understanding the environment can help refugees create a better future while supporting the UK economy, from gaining access to work and education to overcoming legal and cultural barriers.
Every year, thousands of refugees and asylum seekers in the UK often struggle to find employment in a new nation where they encounter social, linguistic, legal, technical, and financial obstacles.
This post will cover the many opportunities that await you and the challenges of working as a refugee in the UK!
What is the Difference Between an Asylum Seeker and a Refugee?
An asylum seeker has fled their home country due to war or persecution and is seeking international protection (asylum) but whose claim for refugee status has not yet been legally determined.
The critical difference between asylum seekers and refugees is officially recognizing their status. While both have fled dangerous situations in their home countries, refugees have already been granted official status and protection.
In contrast, asylum seekers are still in the process of seeking that recognition. To be considered for asylum, people must prove to authorities that they meet the criteria for refugee protection.
However, this process can be lengthy and complex; not all asylum seekers will be recognized as refugees. It is not illegal to seek asylum in the UK, and the 1951 Refugee Convention, of which the UK is a signatory, states that people can seek asylum in any country they choose.
What are the Challenges of Working as a Refugee in the UK?
The UK job market can be an “unfriendly environment” for refugees, as they may face critical challenges such as technical skills, interview formats, and company expectations. Companies expect a certain mindset and attitude from potential employees.
In addition, the depression and anxiety that many refugees and asylum seekers experience can be an added barrier. Immigration law can also put up roadblocks, especially for asylum seekers who have not yet been granted refugee status by the government, as they are generally not permitted to work during the asylum process.
The asylum process can be lengthy, sometimes taking years. This can mean asylum seeker jobs are not available, and the time spent out of the workforce can be detrimental to future employment.
To get refugee status, the applicant must show that they have a well-founded fear of being persecuted, are outside their country of nationality, and are not a danger to the security of the UK.
Once refugee status is achieved, the refugee has the right to live and work in the UK and the right to access healthcare and education. Even though refugees are often highly educated or experienced, they also face the following barriers:
- Employment gaps on CVs due to the lengthy asylum process
- Lack of British work experience.
- Limited understanding of the UK job market and no professional networks
- Non-recognition of qualifications.
- Language barriers.
- Cultural differences.
- Public misconceptions and discrimination.
What are the Opportunities for Working as a Refugee in the United Kingdom?
Despite all the obvious challenges, there are jobs for refugees and opportunities to succeed in the UK jobs market. Employers are increasingly seeing the value of diversity and inclusion in their workforce, and some may even actively seek to hire refugees and other migrants.
In addition, resources are available to help refugees overcome the challenges they face in the workforce and the job hunt, both from charities and the government. Some of these resources include:
1. Language Courses
Reading, writing, and speaking English can be crucial for employment in the UK and settling into the community. Therefore, the UK government has provided links to several free English language courses nationwide.
- The courses offered by your local council are listed. For further information, visit the gov.UK website; enter your postcode to be directed to your local council’s website.
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses are also available online for free. They include practical lessons with interactive listening lessons, reading exercises, quizzes, and games.
- The Open University also offers a selection of free online English language courses for refugees on its website.
2. Training Programs
- The Refugee Council offers the STEP program (Specialized Training and Employment Program) for refugees in South Yorkshire, Leeds, and York. It provides tailored support and regular coaching, helps create an employment action plan, and further training to help refugees find jobs.
- The Open University also offers other free online courses for refugees, covering topics such as the basics of computers and computer systems and digital skills.
Support and mentoring networks, such as the Refugee Employment Network, represent over 80 refugee integration support organizations across the UK.
They can help to connect job seekers with relevant employers, provide advice and guidance, and find funding and other opportunities to find refugee jobs.
Guidance for Refugees on How to Secure a Job
Working on language skills and taking other courses available is essential to prepare yourself for the UK job market. Still, you can also take specific steps once you feel ready to give yourself the best chance of getting a job.
- Consider your interests and whether you have a skillset or experience in a particular field.
- Think about the area in which you would like to work in.
- Look at the language level, which can be a barrier for those still needing to improve their English. If that is the case, sign up for some English courses.
- Consider your knowledge of the UK jobs market and find a specialist organization to assist you if necessary.
- Conduct some research into the specific sectors that you’re interested in. Find out what’s needed to gain employment in this sector and whether there are any opportunities for networking or volunteering.
- If you don’t have the relevant skills or experience, work out how to gain them.
One crucial thing to do when you have a sector or job targeted is to ensure your refugee resume is as strong as possible.
Five Tips for Building an Effective Resume
- Start with a brief bio, skills, employment history, and then education history. This format is widely used by many.
- Each section in the above point needs to be explained, and the reason for its importance must be given.
- Ensure that font and size are consistent throughout.
- Always check for spelling mistakes before you send.
- Put start and finish dates for your previous jobs.
Conclusion
Refugees and asylum seekers may have to overcome many barriers and challenges to achieve career success in the United Kingdom. Still, as we’ve seen, many opportunities are available to them!
