Migration and resettlement: business and employment
For many people, employment provides income as well as helping them get involved in their community, be independent and feel a sense of dignity.
Getting a job can be difficult because of language barriers, recognition of foreign qualifications, and discrimination. But despite this, there are opportunities through targeted support programs and partnerships with businesses committed to embrace diversity. By appreciating the unique experiences and perspectives that migrants bring, society can create a more inclusive workforce that benefits both individuals and the economy.
Find information about:
Employment support
There are local and national organisations that can help with:
- searching for jobs
- writing a CV and cover letters
- interview techniques
- finding work-experience and volunteering opportunities
- finding courses and opportunities to improve your skills
National Careers Service
The National Careers Service can assess your skills and help you find out what job would be the best fit for you. They also provide courses and career advice.
Skills Bootcamps
The Skills for Careers service has a wide range of 'Skills Bootcamps'. The bootcamps are free courses on a wide range of topics, including digital, health care, and business and administration.
They can help you develop new skills that employers are looking for. They're a great opportunity to train in a new industry or progress in your current career.
European Network of Information Centres (ENIC)
The European Network of Information Centres (ENIC) can help you (for free) to translate qualifications and certificates from outside the UK. They can also provide a letter in English explaining what UK qualifications they are equivalent to.
Refugee Employment Programmes by World Jewish Relief (WJR)
World Jewish Relief (WJR) provide specialist training and employment programmes. Refugees can join remotely and free of charge.
Digital Boost
Digital Boost provide free mentoring for small businesses and charities through a network of volunteers from organisations such as Google. You can arrange multiple 60 minute free advice sessions with mentors in areas such as:
- marketing and branding
- business strategy and operations
- e-commerce and payments
Support for women
Smart Works
Smart Works are dedicated to supporting women getting into employment. They provide essential coaching, clothing and confidence to help women get employed and change their lives.
Young Women's Trust
The Young Women's Trust offers free support for women aged 18 to 30 with employment coaching and personalised support with your CV, cover letters and job applications.
Starting your own business and funding
In the UK, most businesses set up as a sole trader, a partnership, or a limited company. Find Support for Businesses at West Berkshire Council and advice on setting up your own business on the government website.
There are organisations that can help individuals start their own business:
The Rebel Business School
The Rebel Business School provide courses to help you start a business without a business plan or money. This is a great platform which provides help for anyone who wants to start up their own business in the UK.
Kick Off in Business
Kick Off in Business have fully funded, short, online business start-up and self-employment courses. Their online programme is designed to help you start your business.
The King's Trust
If you are aged 30 or under, The King's Trust's Enterprise Programme can support you in setting up a business.
Loans and funding
For information on available funding from West Berkshire Council, visit the grants and funding for business webpage.
You can find help and support for your business on the government website. This includes getting advice and financial help from government-backed schemes.
On the government website you can also find:
You can also contact the government's Business Support Helpline (England) for free advice, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm (not on bank holidays).
RefuAid
You may be able to access a RefuAid loan, in partnership with Street UK, if you are struggling to pay for the costs that are associated with completing the licensing or training you need to work in your field in the UK. Find out more about the RefuAid loan here.
Volunteering and work experience
Volunteering can help you to overcome language barriers and get involved with your community. It can give you an opportunity to practice and improve your language skills in real-world situations, as well as increasing your confidence and understanding of local customs and practices.
West Berkshire Heritage
West Berkshire Heritage includes Shaw House and the West Berkshire Museum. They have lots of different roles, from gardening or working in the cafe at Shaw House to helping visitors at the museum. Find museum and Shaw House volunteering opportunities here.
Volunteer Centre West Berkshire
Volunteer Centre West Berkshire is a local organisation that matches local people to local needs. They are always looking for volunteers and have a list of many different opportunities.
Sport In Mind
Sport in Mind is a leading mental health sports charity. They organise physical activity projects in partnership with the NHS to help people's recovery, promote mental wellbeing, and improve physical health. Find Sport In Mind volunteering opportunities here.
NHS volunteering
Many NHS organisations and charities need help from volunteers. This is a great way to support the NHS and get involved in your community. Find NHS volunteering opportunities here.
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