Asylum seekers should be given the right to work in the UK starting with jobs in Scotland, a Scottish Minister has said.
Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said that allowing refugees to take up jobs would help them integrate more quickly, and make a positive contribution to the workforce and economy.
Ms Stewart is calling on the UK Government to consider a pilot proposal north of the border in a change in current policy.
The Scottish Right to Work Pilot Proposal proposes a number of moves policy, including enabling the right to work from six months after arrival instead of twelve months, and removing restrictions on the types of work asylum seekers can undertake.
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Additionally, those on the pilot would have access to support around key topics such as employability and language learning.
A report from the Scottish Government’s independent Expert Advisory Group on Migration and Population, published in December 2023, found that granting people who are seeking asylum the right to work at an earlier stage could improve their wellbeing and integration, reduce their risk of exploitation, and have longer-term benefits to our economy and public service delivery.
“We believe that giving people seeking asylum the right to work from an earlier point can have a positive impact on them, their families and our communities.
“This means that following a positive decision they will be better equipped to support themselves and their families.”
She added: “These measures would also enable asylum seekers to integrate more quickly, making a positive contribution to our workforce and economy by reducing the cost and demand on our public services.
“We ask that the Home Office engages with us to take forward this pilot proposal, in collaboration with our partners.”
The Home Office has been approached for comment.
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