In the summer of 2023 Alena’s family were visiting her in Scotland for a somewhat “leisurely stroll” along the West Highland Way. Little did Vitalii (Alena’s Dad) know at the time that this 6 day camping trip was actually a well concealed plan devised to test his endurance, determination and ability to cope with physical challenges. Needless to say, he passed the test with flying colours and at the end of trip was awarded……..a place for 2024 Manchester Marathon, joining Alena on this “wee” adventure!

While speechless and unsure whether to thank Alena or leave Scotland on the next available flight and never come back again, Vitalii decided that such a challenge, if attempted, had to be done with a serious cause in mind. The cause that would have a significant personal meaning to both Alena & Vitalii. So here it goes….

In our world that is now so torn apart by wars and conflicts, so many people are forced to flee their home, leaving their lives, their work, their family behind. They often come to places like Scotland hoping to find safety yet again. It is a moral duty of those who are able to offer that safety to support those in need and help them integrate and find happiness in their new home.

Based on the experience of our friends and colleagues that have recently had to flee their county, we know that learning and speaking the language of the country that welcomes you to its safe shores is one of the most effective ways to integrate, find work and become a part of the local community. However, financial challenges often prevent refugees from learning the language as often don’t have enough money to buy food or pay the bills.

Glasgow ESOL Forum is a brilliant organisation whose vision is for Scotland to a place where non-native English speakers have the language skills and confidence to live fulfilling lives. They provide accessible and relevant English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learning opportunities for adults whilst supporting integration, employability and personal development.

Any contribution, large or small, will make a significant difference for those who’ve come to make Scotland their safe home. Your donation will go directly towards supporting refugees in their efforts to learn English.

£2.5 - could pay for a bus ticket to enable a learner to travel to a class

£ 5 - provides a learner welcome pack with materials

£ 10 - buys a book for our English language book group

£ 30 - could pay an hour of teaching time

£ 40 - could pay for a creche to enable parents to attend an English class

£ 50 - could provide induction training for a volunteer to teach English in the community