Aon launches programme to support displaced talent entering workforce

Aon UK has launched the next phase of its displaced workforce impact programme.

The new initiative is designed to support people displaced by war, violence and conflict in finding professional employment in the UK that is aligned with their skills and expertise.

Delivered in collaboration with charity Refugee Employment Network, the new programme helps individuals build their professional networks, hone their transferable employability skills and navigate the corporate recruitment process.

The launch follows pilot programmes held in October 2025 and January 2026 attended by over 80 people.

Further, feedback from session participants showed an increase in confidence navigating corporate recruitment – with levels up from 28% to 70%.

Katherine Conway, head of inclusion at Aon, said: “Aon is a global business and we are keen that our talent should reflect that.

“By working alongside charities like the Refugee Employment Network, we can successfully translate our commitment to inclusion into real outcomes that are in line with our purpose to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. 

”We’re proud of the success of the pilot programmes – reflected in the doubling of participants in the second iteration of the series. We want to offer our support and expertise to displaced people who face disproportionate unemployment rates.”

Further collaboration

Aon also hosted a panel event in March 2026 to bring together HR and business leaders to support the Refugee Employment Network.

In this event, panels highlighted barriers faced by displaced individuals and showed the business case for supporting skilled professionals in re-entering the workforce and demonstrated the potential for organisations to unlock the value of displaced talent.

Jenny Walton, chief executive at the Refugee Employment Network, said: “Employment plays a vital role in rebuilding a life for those displaced from their home country and the feedback attendees have shared shows how transformative this programme has been.

”Participants have left feeling motivated and welcomed into Aon and the UK workplace – something many are experiencing for the first time. Working alongside Aon on this innovative programme, we have been pleased with the results so far and we look forward to inspiring more organisations to drive change across their workplaces.

”Removing barriers to meaningful work is a win-win for business and the professionals we work with – something which we are proud to facilitate.”