Blog: Unlocking Hidden Refugee Talent – A Critical Conversation

It was a pleasure to play a small part in this insightful episode by the City & Guilds Foundation as part of their Foundation Friends podcast series. In the episode titled 'Lost Opportunities: Hidden Refugee Talent,' Lauren Roberts from the City & Guilds Foundation sits down with Jessica Ridgewell from Breaking Barriers to discuss the critical topic of integrating refugees into the workforce. This episode delves into the numerous challenges refugees face when seeking employment in the UK and the pivotal role the private sector can play in addressing these barriers.

The Benefits of Integrating Refugee Communities

Jessica Ridgewell begins by outlining the significant economic and business benefits of integrating refugee communities into the workforce. She highlights that many refugees are highly skilled and educated, yet they face disproportionately high unemployment rates due to language barriers, gaps in their CVs, limited knowledge of the UK job market, and employer biases. These challenges often lead to the underemployment of highly skilled individuals, which not only impacts the refugees but also represents a loss of potential talent for businesses.

The Role of the Private Sector

The discussion then moves to the crucial role of the private sector in enhancing refugee employment and integration. Jessica emphasises that businesses can support refugee communities through talent acquisition, diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies, and by providing crucial funding and resources. She cites successful programmes such as workshops hosted by 微软 and LinkedIn , entry-level job placements at 宜家 , and sector-specific roles with companies like Mayer Brown. These initiatives demonstrate how businesses can take actionable steps to recruit and retain refugee talent, ultimately benefiting both the economy and society.

The Importance of Collaboration

One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of collaboration between businesses and charities. Jessica explains that partnerships with organisations like Breaking Barriers are essential for providing the necessary support to refugees. These collaborations can include funding for refugee services, leveraging employee skills and expertise to build refugee confidence, and creating networking opportunities that can help refugees navigate the job market more effectively.

Jessica also highlights the Business Behind Refugees movement, which fosters knowledge sharing and collaboration among corporate partners. This movement includes events aimed at raising awareness, building refugee confidence, and sharing best practices for integrating refugees into the workforce. For example, BNY Mellon hosts events on social mobility, while @Cummins’ Pride Network focuses on intersectionality and the experiences of LGBTQ+ refugees.

Evolving Work Trends

Another important aspect discussed in the episode is the evolving context of the world of work and the trends that businesses should be aware of to support refugees effectively. Jessica notes that digital access and skills are becoming increasingly important, especially with the rise of AI and other technological advancements. She suggests that businesses should invest in training and upskilling refugee candidates to ensure they are not left behind in the job market.

Opportunities in Various Sectors

Jessica also points out the opportunities for refugees in sectors facing skill shortages, such as hospitality and retail. These industries can provide refugees with their first job in the UK, helping them improve their English language skills, build confidence, and gain an understanding of the UK workplace. Additionally, there are opportunities in emerging sectors such as green skills and energy transition, where refugee candidates can contribute to organisations’ goals of achieving net zero.

Practical Advice for Businesses

The episode concludes with practical advice for businesses looking to support refugee communities. Jessica encourages employers to question their own biases and discrimination when hiring refugee candidates, provide support for their integration into the workplace, and celebrate the value that refugees bring to the community and businesses. By sharing the impact and benefits of hiring refugees, businesses can inspire others to get involved and make a lasting difference.

Conclusion

In summary, this episode of the Foundation Friends podcast provides valuable insights into the challenges refugees face in the UK job market and the significant role that businesses can play in overcoming these barriers. Through collaboration, funding, and practical initiatives, the private sector can help unlock the potential of refugee talent, driving economic growth and fostering a more inclusive society. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how your business can contribute to refugee workforce inclusion and make a meaningful impact.

Check out the full episode here: Foundation & Friends Podcast: Unlocking Hidden Refugee Talent with Jessica Ridgewell from Breaking Barriers | City & Guilds Foundation (cityandguildsfoundation.org)

Don’t miss out—tune in to previous episodes here: podcast | City & Guilds Foundation (cityandguildsfoundation.org)

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