Need a Hand?

Report Introduction

Refugees and asylum seekers bring with them to the UK a vast array of skills and qualifications; however, collectively they are among the most vulnerable and socially excluded in British society.

There are many benefits which can spring from volunteering, for the individual, an organisation and for the wider society. However, the significance of volunteering as an opportunity for asylum seekers was heightened by the Home Office decision in 2002 to remove their right to work. Hence, those asylum seekers who are newly arrived must wait for permission to be granted for them to stay in the UK before they can gain formal paid employment.

In this context, volunteering is an important opportunity to gain work experience, keep skills up-to-date, obtain references and rebuild self-esteem. In addition, the provision of volunteering opportunities can promote community cohesion through the forging of links with the wider community.

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