Refugee mental health and employment
This report explores the relationship between refugee mental health and their employment outcomes in the UK.
Applies to England and Scotland
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Refugees in the UK face a disproportionately high prevalence of mental health issues and are less likely to be in full-time employment compared to the general population. This research aims to understand the relationship between refugees’ ill mental health and employment outcomes.
The research finds that refugee mental health can be impacted traumatic events, the asylum process, variable levels of housing and financial security, the quantity and quality of social connections, as well as feeling undervalued. Barriers to mental health support include lack of culturally sensitive, refugee trauma-informed care, and limited language support. Poor mental health is likely to extend periods of unemployment and, conversely, positive experiences at a workplace can bolster subjective well-being by facilitating financial security, improved self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. Workplace discrimination and prejudice can also undermine and hinder the potential positive impacts of employment.