More than 1,000 Ukrainian refugees attended a job fair in central London with the hopes of helping them get back on their feet.
The Horseguards Hotel hosted the employment fair in partnership with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and the Department for Work and Pensions.
The job fair attracted a large turnout with more than 40 employers from various sectors from entertainment, hospitality and education.
Employers who attended the fair include Tiktok Academy, NHS, Marks & Spencer, Mackintosh Theatres, Lewisham Hospitality Club and Hilton Hotels.
For many Ukrainian refugees, the inability to speak English has had a significant impact on them finding work.
Nataliia Polizhak, a job seeker from Ukraine, said: “Communications has always been my strength in Ukraine. However, the same skill is now my weakness in the UK.”
Science teacher Polizhak, who arrived in the UK in March, holds a teaching qualification.
The job fair was hoping to help Ukrainians find employment, digital skills and language training.
Alena, 53, a jobseeker from Ukraine said: “I thank the UK government for helping and supporting Ukrainians during such terrible times. I received valuable information through the employers and I look forward to applying to these roles.”
Ukraine Project Manager at London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Igor Bartkiv said: “I, as a Ukrainian working with the London Chamber of Commerce, felt grateful to be able to help my fellow citizens, providing a platform for all Ukrainian nationals to rebuild their lives in London.”
A recent report showed just three per cent of London businesses currently employ refugees, according to a survey produced by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in collaboration with the Refugee Investment Network.
Featured image credit: London Chamber
