From SFI to work

Since there were major economic problems in Syria in the 80s and 90s, many from there have two or more professional titles. For example, there are people who can be employed as both an economist and a painter. This is worth its weight in gold for a small or medium-sized company.

The purpose was to get more newcomers into work and to help employers in southeastern Skåne recruit new staff. Statistics show that many in Sweden find work through relationships and networks, which newcomers often lack. Therefore, the project aimed to be a trustworthy link between newcomers and employers to facilitate matches that might otherwise never have occurred.

120 newcomers were interviewed and mapped regarding education, language, interests, previous work experiences, and personal goals. All were offered training days on what it is like to work in Sweden: what to consider during a job interview, Swedish labor law, interaction between manager and employee, social codes and cultural differences, communication in a workplace, and so on. Participants also had access to language cafés twice a week where 10-15 volunteers were present to converse, but also to role-play for upcoming job interviews.

In parallel, the project leaders contacted local employers and made about 100 company visits where they talked about the project and potential employees. They also organized larger lunches where entrepreneurs and newcomers could meet.

During matching, the newcomers received support before, and if they wished, also during the job interview. The project leaders helped them go through employment contracts and with contacting the Employment Service in cases where the employer had the opportunity to receive financial support. Upon hiring, regular follow-ups were made with both the employer and the newly hired to minimize the risk of misunderstandings and complications.

During the project period, 69 newcomers found work, of which 17 received permanent employment and the others received recurring seasonal jobs. Many of the positions were preceded by internships, which were also made possible thanks to the project. Three newcomers received support to start their own businesses and 21 chose to begin studying after guiding coaching with the project leaders. They also helped newcomers under 18 years old find summer jobs.

A newcomer who gets a job makes a difference for more than just themselves. The employee's family, friends, and relatives are also positively affected, it gives hope to other newcomers and accelerates integration into society at large. Participants who found work thanks to the project all reported increased joy and self-esteem, as well as satisfaction in being able to support themselves and their families.

Thanks to the project, which could be used as a reference assignment, Hyllie Park Talent Agency signed an agreement with the Employment Service after the project's conclusion to conduct the service Support and Matching. The project's lessons have been developed and today there is an established operation and agreement with the Employment Service in Simrishamn and Malmö.

LAG board's justification for car accident

The project is fully in line with our local development strategy as the initiatives contribute to inclusion, which in turn leads to increased social sustainability in the community and enhanced quality of life for the participants. The project's competence-enhancing measures increase the participants' chances of employment.