Launched by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) with support from North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), the scheme will offer training and support to help refugees to work for the NHS and social care providers. 

The initiative will support refugees to gain a deeper understanding of how the health and care system works in England, as well as giving guidance on job applications.

Those taking part will receive one-to-one coaching and help with learning specialised English terms used by UK health and care professionals.  

Genevieve Caston, director of UK RAI at the IRC, said: ‘We can break down barriers to getting a job by helping refugees build specialist language skills and learn about careers with the NHS, so they can contribute to their communities and help the NHS and care providers meet their staffing needs.

‘We hope to see more NHS trusts take similar steps to support refugees into the health and social care sector.'

David Purdue, chief nurse at North East and North Cumbria ICB, added: ‘With a high level of staff vacancies and the baby boomer generation reaching retirement age, it's vital for the NHS to build a strong, skilled workforce for the future. We want to attract talent from every part of our community, and refugees can be part of keeping the NHS strong.  

‘It's also the right thing to do, as we want workplaces where people feel welcomed, listened to and valued. Working in health and care is a great option for anyone with a caring attitude who would like to make a difference.'

The Supported Employment Programme is currently accepting applications from refugees, who have the right to work, in: North Cumbria, Northumberland, North Tyneside, Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, South Tyneside, Sunderland, Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough, and Redcar and Cleveland.

The programme builds on the IRC's offerings in other regions of the UK, where the organisation has supported more than 1500 refugees from countries such as Afghanistan, Syria and Ukraine, providing integration, employment, leadership and mentoring courses.