Selfridges has removed all references to its training programme for asylum seekers following a GB News investigation. The initiative, launched in 2025 in collaboration with Care4Calais, aimed to provide migrants with skills in hospitality, including food hygiene certification and CV workshops. Critics argue that such programmes divert opportunities from British youth, especially as youth unemployment in the UK exceeds one million.
The backlash against Selfridges highlights a growing tension around immigration and employment in the UK. Reform UK has condemned the partnership, suggesting it incentivises illegal crossings and undermines local job seekers. This sentiment reflects broader societal concerns about the impact of immigration on job availability, particularly for young people facing high unemployment rates.
Selfridges has since shifted its charitable focus to established partnerships with organisations like Oxfam and Centrepoint, distancing itself from Care4Calais. This move may be an attempt to mitigate reputational damage and align more closely with public sentiment regarding immigration and employment.
The removal of the training scheme signals a potential shift in corporate responsibility strategies, as companies navigate the complexities of social issues and public perception. As the debate continues, the implications for both asylum seekers and local job markets remain significant.
Source: GB News
