Refugee work scheme wins NHF praise

A scheme that gives refugee volunteers work experience with housing associations has been praised by David Orr, the chief executive of the National Housing Federation.

Orr presented certificates to 19 of the first volunteers – four of whom have already found work – at a ceremony in London this month.

The scheme, called Reach In, is run by housing charity hact and 30 new volunteers will take up work placements this January with the same number joining the scheme the following October.

Orr said: “To housing associations I say this scheme is good for you, good for your business and good for the places and communities where you work. And because it’s the right thing to do. The business case to get involved in Reach In is obvious: here are skilful, talented people who are available to be your employees.”