In 2021, the University of Reading Careers Service worked with Reading Refugee Support Group (RRSG) to develop online employability skills training resources for local sanctuary seekers.
The project aimed to support refugees and people seeking sanctuary as they explored employment opportunities in the UK. Many individuals face a range of barriers when entering the labour market, including unfamiliar recruitment processes, gaps in employment history, recognition of qualifications, language barriers, limited access to technology and wider personal or financial challenges.
As part of the University's Sanctuary work, Reading Refugee Support Group asked the Careers Service to contribute resources that would help local sanctuary seekers navigate these challenges.
Careers staff developed tailored guidance covering:
- career planning and career choice
- understanding career options
- job searching
- CV writing
- cover letter writing
- interview preparation
- employment-related terminology and careers jargon.
The resources were designed specifically with the needs of refugees and sanctuary seekers in mind and provided practical guidance, signposting and support.
Nick Harborne, Chief Executive of Reading Refugee Support Group, said:
"Employment is a vital aspect of someone's journey, allowing them to benefit from all we have to offer by contributing to Reading and the wider community. Our collaboration with the University of Reading in developing our website so refugees can become job-ready and providing opportunities for volunteering and work experience to assist people on this journey is invaluable. As a small charity supporting refugees, we think this is a tremendous contribution to the services and support we offer."
This collaboration formed part of the University's journey towards becoming a University of Sanctuary. The resources developed through the partnership continue to provide support for sanctuary seekers exploring employment, skills development and career opportunities.
This page highlights previous employability support resources developed through collaboration between the University of Reading Careers Service and local refugee support organisations. For current employability and careers support, please refer to Reading Refugee Support Group and their list of specialist organisations.
Original article by Tania Lyden, Careers Consultant.
