Supporting refugees in London & the North East

Refugees contribute a diverse set of skills and experiences to the workplace. However, they often face significant barriers to securing sustainable employment and fulfilling their potential. These barriers can include language difficulties, discrimination, unfamiliar recruitment processes and challenges in having their qualifications or skills recognised. These are often compounded by additional obstacles such as limited access to transport, childcare responsibilities or health issues.

The Refugee Employability Programme (REP) was commissioned by the Home Office to address key challenges that refugees face in settling and integrating into life in England. In September 2023, Reed in Partnership began delivering the REP as a prime provider in London and the North East of England. Since then, we are proud to have supported over 5,000 refugees through the programme.

With the REP having come to an end on 10 June 2025, this report brings together our insights and learnings from delivering the service. We hope these reflections will help shape and enhance future refugee resettlement provision. The report highlights the achievements of our Service Users and includes real-life examples from both individuals and employers who engaged with the programme.

You can read the full report here.