Becoming Actors of their Lives: A Relational Autonomy Approach to Employment and Education Choices of Refugee Young People in London, UK

Abstract

This paper presents the findings of a qualitative doctoral research study concerning refugee young people in London and their education and employment choices. It applies a relational autonomy and capability approach perspective, exploring how two third-sector organisations support young people to become actors of their lives and supporting autonomous decision-making over their futures. It also pays attention to the practical support necessary to achieve positive employment or education outcomes. In conclusion this paper finds that targeted, individualised and multidimensional support is most successful.