Breaking Barriers in Birmingham: Practical Skills for Employment

Supporting resettled refugees into work and education 

Since 2015, Birmingham has welcomed refugees through national resettlement schemes. And it‘s now among the top 10 local authorities in Britain for resettled refugees. Each refugee brings unique skills, qualifications and determination to build a new life. But their journey to enter work, education or volunteering can be full of obstacles.  

Language barriers, disrupted careers, digital exclusion, and social isolation often hinder access to opportunities. We believe that every individual should have the chance to fully participate in their community and contribute their skills and talents to the local economy. 

A targeted programme for Birmingham’s refugee community 

Practical Skills for Employment is a 12-month initiative funded through Birmingham City Council’s Resettlement Grants Scheme. It provides tailored support for more than 25 resettled refugees, with at least 75% from Afghan and Syrian backgrounds, to bridge the gap between skills learning and economic independence.  

What the programme offers 

 Our team of specialist staff will facilitate the programme, with every element designed to tackle down barriers to employment: 

• English for Work courses and conversation clubs build confidence in professional communication 

• Digital skills coaching helps our clients navigate job searching, email, LinkedIn and online safety 

• 1-1 career coaching, which includes CV writing and interview preparation 

• Fully funded IELTS and OET courses for those requalifying in regulated professions 

• Workplace readiness sessions that cover contracts, rights and professional culture 

• Connections to volunteering and employer networks across Birmingham 

Who the programme supports 

The programme is open to refugees resettled under the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS), Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP), and UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS), as well as those referred through local partners. 

We place particular focus on those who often face the most significant barriers to opportunity, including women, young people navigating early careers, and skilled professionals needing tailored support to re-enter their professions.  

The impact we aim to make 

Over the next 12 months, we aim to help refugees take tangible steps toward shaping their own futures, guided by the following targets: 

• 36% of participants will secure a job, volunteering role or training opportunity within 12 months 

• Up to 70% will improve their English proficiency, opening doors to the labour market and broader community engagement 

• Clients will benefit from increased confidence, skills and independence, enabling participants to contribute fully to Birmingham’s economy and community life 

A collaborative approach rooted in community 

Our Birmingham team will deliver the programme alongside a network of partners, including: 

• Volunteers, including teachers, language tutors and career coaches 

• Employers and education partners, such as The University of Birmingham 

• Referral organisations, including Refugee Action, Refugee and Migrant Centre (RMC), Jobcentre Plus, and Spring Housing 

This collaborative approach ensures the programme is grounded in Birmingham’s local networks and aligned with the City Council’s strategic goals for resettlement, employability and social inclusion. It also reflects their broader commitment to reducing inequality, strengthening community cohesion and improving outcomes for vulnerable groups. 

Cllr Jamie Tennant, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities at Birmingham City Council, said: “Birmingham is proud to be a city that welcomes everyone, including people seeking safety and the chance to rebuild their lives.  

“This programme reflects our commitment to ensuring resettled refugees have real, meaningful pathways into employment, education and our communities. By working in partnership with Breaking Barriers, we are helping residents overcome the obstacles that stand between them and the opportunities they deserve. Together, we’re building a more inclusive, skilled and prosperous Birmingham for everyone.” 

A shared commitment to integration 

We are proud to work alongside Birmingham City Council to help build an environment where refugees are seen, heard, and able to participate fully. By removing barriers to work and education, we give refugees the agency to shape their own lives and futures. 

To learn more about our work in Birmingham or explore partnership opportunities, contact: Cathy Hill, Senior Philanthropy Manager, [email protected]