Scottish Refugee Council

Who We Are

The Scottish Refugee Council is Scotland's national charity supporting refugees and asylum seekers.

Founded in 1985, we have grown to become a trusted voice and essential service provider for those seeking safety and protection in Scotland. Based in Glasgow, we help thousands of individuals and families rebuild their lives each year, promoting integration and safeguarding their rights. Our work is guided by our core values of respect, dignity, empowerment, and resilience.

What We Do

Our mission is to create a Scotland where all people seeking refugee protection are welcomed, protected, and able to realize their full potential.

Direct Support Services

We offer comprehensive support services including legal advice, housing assistance, and emotional support to help refugees navigate the complex asylum system and settle into their new lives. Our experienced team works directly with individuals and families to address their immediate needs and build pathways to independence.

Advocacy and Policy Influence

We advocate tirelessly for fair and humane asylum policies, working to influence public opinion and government policies at both the Scottish and UK levels. Our policy work is informed by the real experiences of the people we support, ensuring that refugee voices are heard in decision-making spaces.

Community Engagement and Integration

Our efforts extend to community engagement and education, ensuring that refugees can contribute to and integrate into Scottish society effectively. We work to build understanding and solidarity between refugee communities and the wider Scottish population, creating a more welcoming and inclusive society for all.

Working at the Scottish Refugee Council

Working at the Scottish Refugee Council means being part of a dedicated and compassionate team committed to making a real difference in people's lives. We recognize that our staff are our greatest asset, and we prioritize creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive.

We understand the importance of work-life balance, especially in emotionally demanding roles, and offer flexible working arrangements to help balance personal and professional commitments. Our team consists of approximately 80 staff members and over 50 volunteers, all working collaboratively to uphold our values and achieve our mission.

Our Culture

We foster a workplace culture built on mutual respect, open communication, and shared purpose. Professional development is encouraged, and staff wellbeing is taken seriously. We believe that supporting our team enables them to provide the best possible support to the refugees and asylum seekers we serve.

Team Benefits

At the Scottish Refugee Council, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees' wellbeing and professional growth:

• 39 days of annual leave, including public holidays—providing ample time for rest and rejuvenation
• Enhanced pension scheme with a 10% employer contribution to support your financial future
• Flexible working options to help you balance work with personal commitments
• Access to a coaching and counseling service for professional and personal support
• Death in service benefit providing security for your loved ones
• Training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career
• Casual dress code for a comfortable work environment

We're committed to ensuring our team feels valued, supported, and equipped to do their best work in service of refugees and asylum seekers across Scotland.