October 23, 2024 —  A new scheme is set to boost health and care in the North East and North Cumbria by helping refugees to use their skills and experiences caring for people in the region.  

Launched by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) with support from North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), it will offer training and support to help refugees to work for the NHS and social care providers.  

The new initiative will support refugees to gain a deeper understanding of how the health and care system works in England, as well as giving guidance on job applications. 

People taking part will receive one-to-one coaching and help with learning specialised English terms used by UK health and care professionals.   

Oluwatosin, one of the first participants on the programme in Newcastle, said:  

“Joining the course exceeded my expectations - it not only provided me with invaluable skills and knowledge but also opened doors to a supportive people, truly demonstrating the power of compassion in creating lasting change and also creating pathways to self-sufficiency and fostering a profound sense of belonging in my life as a refugee in a new community." 

Genevieve Caston, Director of UK RAI at the IRC, said: 

“Many refugees have valuable experience in health and social care and want to contribute their skills to help others in the UK. This approach not only creates a practical route into work but also enriches the health and social care workforce with motivated, skilled individuals from diverse backgrounds. 

"We can break down barriers to getting a job by helping refugees build specialist language skills and learn about careers with the NHS, so they can contribute to their communities and help the NHS and care providers meet their staffing needs. We hope to see more NHS trusts take similar steps to support refugees into the health and social care sector.” 

David Purdue, chief nurse at North East and North Cumbria ICB, said: 

"With a high level of staff vacancies and the baby boomer generation reaching retirement age, it's vital for the NHS to build a strong, skilled workforce for the future. We want to attract talent from every part of our community, and refugees can be part of keeping the NHS strong.   

"It's also the right thing to do, as we want workplaces where people feel welcomed, listened to and valued. Working in health and care is a great option for anyone with a caring attitude who would like to make a difference." 

The programme builds on the IRC’s offerings in other regions of the UK, where the organisation has supported over 1500 refugees from countries such as Afghanistan, Syria and Ukraine, providing integration, employment, leadership and mentoring courses. 

The Supported Employment Programme is currently accepting applications. For more information, eligibility criteria and to submit an application, please see this webpage.  

ENDS 

Notes to editors:  

Refugees (who have the right to work) in these areas are eligible to apply for this programme: