Brighton & Hove and Metrobus has launched a partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help Ukrainian refugees to become bus drivers.
The operator, which is part of The GoAhead Group, is inviting Ukrainians to a recruitment open day this month that will highlight jobs available at the company including driving, engineering and customer services, as well as training opportunities and career progression.
A recent change in government legislation has resulted in Ukrainian refugees receiving immediate settlement status and the opportunity to work in the UK straight away.
At the same time, a new company policy and a special training programme in place means the company can support Ukrainian refugees back into work.
Those who attend the open day will have been assessed by the DWP on the basis of having a driver’s licence and a good understanding of English written and verbal communication skills.
The Confederation of Passenger Transport estimates that 9% of bus driver roles are currently vacant across the country.
Ed Wills, Managing Director of Brighton & Hove and Metrobus, said: “We want to help local people live their lives to the full whether that’s driving them to work, school or to meet up with friends and family.
“As a company we also have the ability to offer jobs to people from Ukraine who are here to start a new and more peaceful life. I look forward to having more recruitment events like this in the future.”
