hello@futuresadvice.org
Futures
57 Maid Marian Way
Nottingham
NG1 6GE
7th March, 2025
Reading time: Two minutes
As Futures’ Refugee Employability Programme (REP) comes to an end this month, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the incredible impact the initiative has had on participants, from the perspective of the team members who delivered it.
The REP was designed to support refugees in overcoming barriers to employment, integration, and independence. With case managers working closely with each participant, the programme aimed not just at finding jobs but also at helping individuals integrate into the community, gain confidence, and build self-worth. The results speak for themselves: over 90% of participants saw positive outcomes, whether through securing employment, enrolling in educational courses, or achieving better integration in their new lives.
For those delivering the REP, it was a deeply rewarding experience. One case manager shared that they had worked with refugees since 2003, but this particular programme brought new challenges and lessons. The experience was both “amazing” and “full of challenges and rewards,” with a focus on personalised plans to overcome language barriers, lack of work experience, and other integration challenges. The effort paid off as many participants secured employment, improved their English skills, and gained the confidence to build better lives for themselves and their families.
Another staff member reflected on the success of the programme as a collaborative effort, with advisers working closely together and with external stakeholders. “The level of appreciation from service users was really good,” they said, noting that many had previously faced homelessness but were now in secure accommodation and taking their first steps towards employment.
Two significant elements stood out throughout the programme’s duration: the focus on integration and the consistent teamwork among advisers. One participant, who faced numerous barriers when joining REP, benefited from tailored support including housing assistance, ESOL classes, and a volunteering opportunity, eventually securing paid employment. This success story is just one example of how the programme worked to remove barriers and create opportunities for refugees.
Partnerships with local businesses, job centres, training providers, and housing agencies played a vital role in helping participants find sustainable jobs and gain work experience. Several service users, who initially faced homelessness, secured temporary or permanent housing, which allowed them to focus on their future goals.
While the programme saw tremendous success, it wasn’t without its challenges. Language barriers, lack of UK work experience, and the need for housing support were among the key obstacles. However, the team found innovative ways to address these challenges, from using multilingual staff to partnering with housing agencies and collaborating with other support organisations to ensure participants received the comprehensive support they needed.
Advisers also worked hard to engage participants who were initially reluctant to step out of their comfort zones, fostering a positive environment where participants felt empowered and motivated to achieve their goals.
As the programme comes to a close, the long-term impact on participants is clear. Beyond helping them find jobs or training, REP has enabled participants to feel more integrated into their communities and take control of their future. One adviser noted that the programme helped participants recognise their self-worth and inspired them to “strive to secure better sustainable jobs” and become positive contributors to society.
Looking ahead, the advice for future programmes is also clear: supporting refugees requires tailored approaches, strong collaboration with local organisations, and a deep understanding of the unique barriers they face. Future initiatives should focus not just on employment but on holistic support that helps individuals rebuild their lives and become active members of their communities.
While the REP may be coming to an end, the work it has done will continue to resonate with both the participants and those who delivered it.
For the team at Futures, working on this programme was not only a professional success but a personal privilege, making a lasting difference in the lives of those who needed it most.
hello@futuresadvice.org
Futures
57 Maid Marian Way
Nottingham
NG1 6GE