A new programme, following on from the success of the United for Ukraine scheme, to help recent arrivals from Hong Kong access employment has been launched in the North-west.

The Growth Company’s Jobs for Hongkongers programme aims to support those who have arrived in the North-west from since 2021 under the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa route to access job vacancies and support to overcome linguistic, cultural, or skills barriers.

The scheme is based on the successful United for Ukraine programme, backed by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) that has helped connect Ukrainian refugees with support, training and employment opportunities through a purpose-built bilingual portal.

The newly launched Jobs for Hongkongers website will promote in both English and Cantonese a wide range of job vacancies from employers who have pledged to promote an inclusive working environment.

Since the BNO visa route launched in 2021, over 176,000 people have emigrated from Hong Kong to the UK, with 322,000 estimated to arrive by 2026. This visa route allows people to live, study and work in the UK for up to five years, after which they can apply for permanent residence. While many Hongkongers who have moved to the UK are highly qualified and skilled and learn English in schools from an early age, a recent study by Trafford Hongkongers CIC and eight other community-led organisations revealed that 67.3 percent of those surveyed said language, particularly understanding and communicating in spoken English, was a significant barrier to employment. Others also reported facing challenges in adjusting to UK workplace culture as well as interviews and the job application process.

Jo Li, Marketing Business Partner at The Growth Company, said of his experience coming to the UK two year ago:

“I had to start everything from scratch. Finding a job and then being promoted gave me the confidence to know that I’m moving in the right direction and have an opportunity to develop my career.” 

Michelle Leeson, Managing Director of GC Employment, added:

“Many Hongkongers have moved to the North West over the past few years. In line with our commitment to empower people and make a positive difference, we are determined to ensure that everyone can realise their ambitions and full potential when it comes to work. 

“That is why we have teamed up with a diverse group of public, private, and voluntary sector partners to provide employment support and opportunities for Hong Kong BN(O) residents in the region.   

“The ongoing success of the United for Ukraine programme demonstrates the importance of such initiatives – to individuals, employers, and communities alike.” 

Hong Kong BN(O) nationals in the North-west can learn more about the support services available and browse online vacancies via the Jobs for Hongkongers website.  Businesses and employment support organisations interested in learning more about getting involved in the initiative should contact The Growth Company for further information.