Guidance for new refugees

View the support available to help you find and apply for a job.

When you apply for a job, you will usually need to send:

• an application form
• a list of your qualifications and experience (a C.V. - curriculum vitae)
• a letter with information about yourself

You can get help writing a C.V. or application from:

• Adviza
• Oasis Partnership (Routes to Work)

We can tell you the UK equivalent of your existing qualifications.

Email [email protected]

You can contact the Jobcentre to:

• help you find a job
• prepare you for work
• give you training and guidance
• find work experience or volunteering opportunities
• help you start a business

Find and contact your nearest Jobcentre Plus.

When you are claiming benefits (including Universal Credit) and you are able to work, a work coach will be assigned to help you.

They'll be assigned to you when you apply for Universal Credit.

They will help you by:

• giving you advice on job vacancies
• giving you advice on training
• improving your job searching skills

When you first meet your work coach, you'll discuss your:

• skills
• experience
• career goals

You will then meet with your work coach regularly to discuss your job search.

If you are able to work, you must look for a job - it can reduce your benefits if you are not looking.

Your work coach will manage the process of claiming benefits by:

• reviewing if you're eligible
• ensuring your details are correct
• helping you manage your money

Job recruiting agencies can help you to find a job. Register with any of the following recruiters:

• Indeed
• Reed
• Pertemps
• CV Library
• The Guardian Jobs
• Total Jobs
• Monster

View the following services:

• Find a Job, search for jobs and open an account to apply
• work at the council (view our jobs page)
• NHS jobs page

You can also:

• look in newspapers
• view other websites
• visit local companies as ask about jobs

Employers will check that you are allowed to work in the UK.

You can use your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or your eVisa as evidence of your immigration status.

If you need to prove your status to an employer, view prove your right to work on GOV.UK.

Workers are entitled to employment rights, including:

• a minimum amount you can be paid (National Minimum Wage)
• maximum number of hours you can work
• paid holiday

View all the employment rights.

If you need help understanding your rights, contact the Citizens Advice Office.

View the National Careers Service for advice about careers.

The Job Centre can help with self-employment and setting up a business. You can discuss this with your work coach.

Alternatively, contact Buckinghamshire Business First to discuss setting up a business:

• 01494 927130
• [email protected]