Supporting refugees and internally displaced people

Guidance and training for the hospitality industry, and support for people who are currently displaced and in need of jobs or wishing to re-train for jobs in the industry
Image of people queuing
Throughout history, hotels across world – from global brands to small independent operators – have been opening their doors to support people fleeing conflicts and other crises.

There are many ways hotels can utilise their properties, networks and desire to help people to support those in need. This includes:

  • Providing accommodation to refugees during their journeys
  • Finding employment in alternative properties for existing staff who need to relocate
  • Offering opportunities to displaced people needing new jobs
  • Ensuring colleagues are financially supported where operations are ceased
  • Providing donations to charities to support their efforts

Guidance for the hospitality industry

Free resources and trainings for the industry to enable increased support for refugees and internally displaced people
Providing employment opportunities for refugees
Cover for employment opportunities for refugees guidance note

Providing employment opportunities

Practical tips for the hospitality industry wanting to support refugees and displaced people through employment.

Providing accommodation for refugees
Cover for accommodation opportunities for refugees guidance note

Providing accommodation

Practical tips for the hospitality industry wanting to welcome refugee and internally displaced guests during their transit. 

Ethical recruitment

Hotels should be aware of the increased risk of exploitation and human trafficking caused by displacement. Every hotel should have robust due diligence and protection measures across their operations and supply chains. We welcome you to use the following free resources:

If your hotel is interested in further ethical recruitment training for your staff and properties, please get in touch.

Support for displaced people

Employment opportunities and training for people who are refugees or internally displaced

Employment opportunities

Visit Hospitality Unite, our dedicated hub which hosts hospitality jobs for refugees and displaced people. (Currently available for Ukrainian refugees.)

Alternatively, if you are seeking employment, here is access to hotel employment sites which have opportunities available in cities across the world. 

If you are a hotel and would like to offer job opportunities to refugees through our Hospitality Unite portal, please find out more.

Training opportunities

If you would like to learn new skills to work in hospitality, here is a selection of free trainings to get you started. 

  • Hospitality fundamentals – A fast-track introduction to working in a hotel, including hotel structure, departments and roles. Aimed at anyone who is looking to begin a career in the hospitality industry or switch careers.
  • IHG Skills Academy – Free online trainings based on the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance employability curriculumIncludes training on hospitality fundamentals – including customer care, engaging with guests, delivering effortless service – communication, adaptability, future skills and self care. (Available in English and Ukrainian)

 

Examples from the hospitality industry