We match refugees and asylum seekers with mentors who support them to find a job or work placement that matches their skills.

Our mentors help with things like writing a CV, cover letter, preparing for job interviews and referring to the right company.

A specialist service offering support for refugee engineer, architect, IT, telecoms and business service professionals who are restarting their careers in the UK.

Who we support

We support refugee professionals with at least 2 years’ overseas experience in roles related to architecture, business services, IT, telecoms, project management and civil, electrical and mechanical engineering.

What we offer

We offer information, advice and guidance:

• Paid Returner Placements – we’ll do our best to broker a 3-12 month paid placement in your profession. You’ll be paid at least the National Living Wage.
• Build your profile – we help you create a detailed skills portfolio, a UK standard CV and to network.
• Match your skills to roles – we can’t make promises of jobs but we will guide you in how to spot the right roles.
• Guidance and support to join professional bodies.
• Support to find a long term position after a placement.
• Signposting to other organisations.
• Additional support from our Mentoring Project or for Manchester residents, the Rainbow Haven Work Club

Mentoring is provided by a project manager and volunteer mentor. Mentors have at least 15 years UK work history, with experience in different sectors and a variety of roles.

How is mentoring provided?

• For up to 5 months.
• 5 hours commitment each month.
• Can be face-to-face, by email or video calls, in the day or early evening.
• A regular newsletter with information about local and online opportunities, including training, courses or jobs.
• Optional workshops and social events.

This project is currently offering a reduced service. To find out more email info@refmentors.org.uk

Work It Out is a free service for women aged 18-30, here to help you make the first step towards feeling more confident and ready for work.

You can choose to sign up for coaching, or help with your CV and job applications, or both. There’s nothing to pay, it’s totally free. You can have up to 6 free coaching sessions over the phone, WhatsApp or email at a time that works for  you. A translation service is available for coaching calls.

Trans women and non-binary people are welcomed.