Construction and Refugees
Refugees offer a wealth of experience to the UK construction industry. So how can employers and refugee workers make the most of their skills?
Construction firms can access a range of benefits by welcoming refugees into their workforce. But the building industry also offers rewarding careers to refugee workers themselves, providing the opportunity to learn cutting-edge skills and contribute to major infrastructure projects.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the advantages of placing refugees in construction jobs – and the things employers need to consider…
Understanding refugee status
The term “refugee status” is often misused, potentially making it tricky for businesses to understand what it really means. Simply put, a refugee is a person who has fled their home country because of persecution or severe danger.
They’re given permission to live and work in the UK if they make a successful claim for asylum. As long as a person is officially classed as a refugee, they’re not restricted in the type of work they can do.
Individuals can get refugee status through a successful asylum claim, or they can get refugee status through a resettlement scheme, such as the Syrian, Afghan, Hong Kong BN(O) and Ukrainian schemes.
Employing refugees: key things to check
Refugees are initially granted an initial five years in the UK with permission to work, unlike asylum seekers. This status is now reviewed every 30 months to check earnings, contribution and skills, similar to economic migrants. This makes it increasingly important to invest in refugee skills and training.
When employing a refugee, employers need to check:
- Their eVisa (Digital ID) which proves they've been granted status in the UK, how long they have been granted status for, and their National Insurance Number
- Other relevant documents, such as evidence of past employment
Can I employ refugees?
Yes, unlike asylum seekers, refugees have permission to work in the UK for an initial period of five years. However, it is important that employers check the status of individual refugees.
Are refugees allowed to work in the UK?
Yes, once refugees have refugee status confirmed they are allowed to work in any profession and at any skill level.
How do I recruit refugees?
Businesses just need to check a few essential things about a refugee applicant, such as their eVisa, National Insurance Number and the amount of time they are allowed to remain in the UK. Companies should also ask for evidence of previous employment.
Next Steps
Employers looking to take on refugees should first contact local colleges to see if they can invest into their construction training programmes. Many local college student refugees undertaking ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses, who are looking for opportunities to develop their skills.
Construction firms can also contact the Refugee Council, the Welsh Refugee Council, the Refugee Employment Network, Equality and Human Rights Commission and Transitions, all of which offer job preparation and application support for refugees.
Official Home Office guidance
For further information on hiring refugee workers, the Government's website has helpful information and advice.