Supporting people into gainful employment

Employment provides financial stability but it also fosters purpose, belonging, and community connection—all key to successful integration into a community.

We have long advocated for the right to work for people seeking protection, and in 2018 this right was granted. They may also now apply for Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP) five months after their protection application. However, barriers remain, which include:

1. Limited knowledge of the Irish labour market
2. Risk of a first-instance negative decision within six months
3. Non-recognition of prior experience or qualifications
4. Limited English skills
5. Institutionalisation from the Direct Provision system
6. Lack of childcare or transport, especially in remote areas

Our Employment Team provides tailored support to address these challenges.

Employment Support

We empower refugees and people seeking protection to access work through:

• Outreach and online information sessions
• CV/resume support and job search strategies
• Interview preparation
• One-to-one career coaching and mentoring

We also provide information on:

• LMAP eligibility, applications, and renewals
• Qualification recognition and professional registration
• Opening bank accounts and registering with Revenue
• Employment rights and entitlements
• Making employment-related complaints
• Understanding Irish workplace culture while maintaining one’s voice

Programmes and Employment Initiatives

Thanks to generous philanthropic support, we have been able to cover essential costs and deliver impactful programmes.

With LinkedIn’s support, we offer tailored employment pathways, including:

• Monthly LinkedIn workshops (online and in-person) on profile creation, job search, and using LinkedIn Premium
• Casework guidance for individual career paths

We aim to help people navigate the Irish labour market, build professional networks, and grow their careers using LinkedIn as a tool for change.

We also deliver a 4-week Online Employment Programme covering:

• Corporate Culture
• Wellness
• Living in Ireland
• Working in Ireland

Additionally, we do outreach, widening access to essential employment information to refugees and people seeking protection living in underserved communities.