Yulia's Story
Before the war, Yulia and her husband enjoyed their life in Kharkiv. They both had good jobs and planned to have a child. The war has changed everything.
On this page
What is Work Matters?
Work transforms lives. It gives us purpose and critically, it enables us to provide for our families and make decisions about our futures.
Work is even more important in times of crisis. For Ukrainians, that crisis is war and it’s happening right now. Work enables Ukrainians impacted by war to buy life-saving supplies, find a sense of much-needed normality and take control over their own lives.
The future of this war is uncertain. But we do know, regardless of what happens, employment will be critical in helping Ukrainians survive and rebuild their country.
The problem
The unemployment rate across Ukraine has skyrocketed following Russia’s brutal assault. Despite this, Ukrainian companies are experiencing a significant labour shortage, largely due to internal displacement, migration, childcare responsibilities and military service. This results in a workforce with reduced networks, a lack of relevant skills or knowledge to fill the jobs that are available and very poor mental health.
In addition, 6.8 million Ukrainians have been forced to leave everything behind and flee to countries such as Poland, Moldova, and the UK. Arriving as refugees, they face significant challenges: language barriers, a lack of network and an unfamiliarity with the job market. This makes integration incredibly difficult.
1 in 7
Ukrainians are unemployed
1 in 2
internally displaced Ukrainians are unemployed
55%
Ukrainian companies experiencing labour shortage
For Ukrainians, Work Matters more than ever
Since war broke out, we have economically empowered over 10,000 people in Ukraine, achieving an impressive employment rate of over 50% – including for internally displaced people. At the same time, we have supported over 14,000 Ukrainian refugees to find sustainable employment, engage in self-employment or launch a business and start rebuilding lives of self-reliance and dignity. But it isn’t enough.
Stories of impact
Read More
Svetlana's Story
Before the war, 57-year-old Svetlana led a comfortable life, running a small business from the flat that she owned. She was happy and confident in her future. The war changed everything.
Liudmyla's Story
For Liudmyla and her family, life was straight forward before the war. They had a home, a routine, and a future they could plan for. Liudmyla worked as a manicurist - but that all changed.
Oleksandr's Story
A former prize-winning boxer, Oleksandr had built a successful life as a gym owner and government sports director before war forced him and his family to flee Ukraine.
Get involved
To join the Work Matters community, we ask for a £2,500 donation per year. By joining Work Matters, you will become a member of a committed, inspiring and purpose-driven community of professionals and entrepreneurs across the UK. You will:
- Engage in meaningful conversations with other like-minded professionals through our private online Work Matters space.
- Demonstrate your contribution to social impact by highlighting Work Matters on your LinkedIn page.
- Attend exclusive in person and online Work Matters events featuring unique panellists, hosts and speakers and hearing directly from World Jewish Relief partners and clients from around the world.
- Have the opportunity to visit World Jewish Relief’s work in person, both domestically and overseas in Ukraine and Moldova, and see how your support is transforming lives.
- Receive updates and impact reports on relevant Work Jewish Relief Programmes and news.
- Have a private, biannual call or in person meeting with World Jewish Relief Directors and programme experts.
