In this special collaboration for Refugee Week, Refugee Action is joined by Roula Kheder (Routes to Employment Project Manager) and Wieke Vink (Head of Programmes) of the London-based social enterprise Routes.

The duo from Routes talk about community as a superpower and routes to employment for women from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds.
Have a listen to hear Wieke and Roula in conversation about the meaning of work, barriers and opportunities for accessing employment and what different actors can do to support employability and refugee rights in London and across the UK.

Important update: in the Government Guidance for Apprenticeship Funding Rules for August 2025 to July 2026, it has been outlined that asylum-seekers cannot access apprenticeship funding. This makes campaigns like the Lift the Ban campaign by refugee leadership (organised by Refugee Action and Asylum Matters, and supported by Routes) all the more relevant - for those who are able to work, to have the right to work.

Despite common misconceptions and misinformation, many people seeking asylum in the UK would like to be able to access the labour market and contribute, but they are prevented from doing so. This is counterproductive to everyone involved - and leaves a whole talent pool of people unable to be part of workplaces.

Please note: the Routes to Employment Research Report, that is mentioned in this podcast, was written before the latest update to the Government Guidance. Any recent policy changes regarding apprenticeship funding structures - or wider changes within the UK asylum system - are not reflected in the Routes report or in this podcast. Please be aware that rules and rights are subject to constant change. Because of this, it is always important to get advice on how any of the rules might apply to your individual case.

Routes and Refugee Action stand in solidarity for refugee rights, and access to employment for all.

For more information, please visit https://routescollective.com/routes-to-employment