Rebuilding one’s life in a new country can be very difficult. Finding a job is not always easy, especially when the local work and cultural environment and administrative rules are still unfamiliar. To support this process, we carried out a labour market programme Edge Up, developed in cooperation between the Estonian Refugee Council, the Latvian organisation Shelter “Safe House”, the Estonian Labour Inspectorate, and the Latvian Labour Inspectorate.

The programme, which started in spring 2024 and was carried out in parallel in two countries, has helped two vulnerable age groups – younger and older adults with a refugee background – to adapt to new conditions, improve their skills, and either enter the local labour market or move on to a more suitable position. Altogether, 12 groups have taken part in both Estonia and Latvia.

Participants were very satisfied with both the content and organisational aspects of the training programme. Participation in Edge Up will help them better navigate the local labour market in the future, prepare the necessary documents, apply for desired positions, and, if necessary, make career changes. 

“The training was very motivating and encouraged me to actively look for work.”

Feedback shows that the programme provided participants with support, knowledge, and confidence. “I got answers to many questions, including where to look for work, how to properly prepare documents, and how to prepare for job interviews,” one participant shared.

Participants pointed out that guest speakers enriched the programme with broader topics, including overviews of the Estonian labour market, and the contribution of the psychologist helped many better understand themselves. “Role-plays and situation simulations were especially useful in helping us mentally prepare for important job interviews,” another participant highlighted.

In addition to the content, the organisational support was also considered important – reimbursement of travel expenses, arrangement of accommodation, and the organisers’ availability and willingness to answer all questions.

The labour market programme was funded by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme with the support of the European Regional Development Fund.