National schemes for asylum seekers and refugees
There are various national schemes available to help asylum seekers and refugees who already have professional qualifications. These schemes can help with advice or guidance in a number of areas, such as recognition of previous professional qualifications or re-qualification.
Refugees into Teaching in Scotland (RITeS)
RITeS works with refugees and those seeking refugee status in Scotland who have teaching qualifications. They offer specialised long-term guidance and support for job search (including assessing prior learning), professional re-qualification and entry/re-entry into higher education. They can offer advice on registration with the General Teaching Council for Scotland and help obtain voluntary placements in Scottish schools. They can also provide advice on the education system in Scotland, including curriculum, methodology, resources and classroom management.
Refugee/Asylum Seeking Doctors' Programme
This programme is designed to assist medical professionals (doctors, dentists and pharmacists) arriving in Scotland , either as asylum seekers or refugees, towards work within the National Health Service in Scotland . The programme provides assistance with the recognition of previous professional qualifications, mentoring support to help sit English language exams, professional re-qualification and access to a library for support materials.
Council for Assisting Refugee Academics (CARA)
CARA operates an information and advice service and a small grants programme to assist refugees with an academic background to re-establish their careers in the UK.
Glasgow Overseas Professionals into Practice (GOPiP)
GOPiP is a project set up to adapt the skills of nurses and midwives educated overseas, for work in the National Health Service for Scotland. Run by Glasgow Caledonian University, the GOPiP project provides the academic support and clinical supervision these professionals need to bring them into work for the NHS in Scotland. You can contact the Project Co-ordinator at Glasgow Caledonian University – telephone 0141 3318352 or email GOPiP@gcal.ac.uk.
Scottish Refugee Council (SRC)
The SRC is an independent charity, dedicated to providing advice, information and assistance to asylum seekers and refugees living in Scotland. For further detailed information on specific schemes to assist refugees and asylum seekers, contact the Scottish Refugee Council. Freephone: 0800 0856087.