Publish date: 16 June 2025
- An employment scheme kick-started at West London NHS Trust has helped over 100 refugees and asylum seekers into jobs
- People who benefit from the programme are given training in interview techniques, CV writing and support to prepare them for employment
- The success of the scheme has seen it expand into eight other NHS organisations in London.
An employment scheme adopted by West London NHS Trust dedicated to supporting refugees into employment has seen over 100 land jobs in the NHS.
Launched in 2023, the North West London Refugee Employment Programme offers support and training to those looking for a job or volunteer opportunity. It ranges from interview practice, CV writing classes and help to prepare people for employment. The scheme began supporting refugees, but its success has seen its expansion to supporting those seeking asylum.
The impact has been significant; over 100 individuals have joined the workforce, and 76 more people have joined volunteer roles and vacancy rates at the Trust have dropped. Teams have also gained new perspectives and cultural understanding, improving patient care.
The success of the scheme at West London NHS Trust has seen it expand to more hospitals in London.
Hannah Njogu, Health Care Assistant at West London and programme participant said:
"Refugees have gone through a lot in life. They’re good people who can deliver for the community.
“I feel grateful for the support I have received through the programme, and I appreciate what I do. I was feeling that maybe I don’t deserve this, but after so much encouragement and motivation, and now I have my confidence, I just feel I can work anywhere now.”
Anthony Sembatya, who runs the North West London Refugee Employment Programme, said:
“Refugees come to the UK with a range of skills and expertise. What our scheme does is give people the confidence to harness those skills and support them back into the workplace. It has been fantastic to see so many people thrive through the scheme, whether that be through getting a job or through volunteering.”
The programme is being celebrated in a new video. It features voices from the programme leads and participants, including Hannah Njogu, Health Care Assistant, who shares her journey.