Good news stories
Good News Story 1: College of Sanctuary
Introduction
For people recently arrived in the United Kingdom, learning the English language is one of the most important challenges. Now, Stockton Riverside College and Redcar and Cleveland College, both part of the Education Training Collective (Etc.), have been recognised for their efforts in helping people on their English language journey. The colleges are among the first in the North-east to be awarded the College of Sanctuary status.
About the College of Sanctuary status
Part of the City of Sanctuary scheme, the College of Sanctuary status recognises those who encourage inclusivity, compassion and solidarity – all things the colleges pride themselves on. There are lots of resources for colleges on the City of Sanctuary website.
City of Sanctuary UK director of operations, Sara Trewhitt, said: “City of Sanctuary UK is delighted to award both Stockton Riverside College and Redcar and Cleveland College with the College of Sanctuary accreditation; they join a select group of further education institutions recognised for their excellent practice in offering hospitality to refugees and asylum seekers. “Both colleges have demonstrated an incredible commitment to ensuring that learners from backgrounds of forced displacement are warmly welcomed into their colleges and supported to thrive. “Their notable collaboration with key local partners like ARC and One Community Link further showcases how much they contribute to wider community efforts to support sanctuary. We offer our heartfelt congratulations to all of the dedicated staff and learners who have contributed to this important achievement.”
Stockton Riverside College
The current cohort of ESOL learners at Stockton Riverside College alone includes speakers of 31 languages from a host of different backgrounds, from those who were academics in their homeland to those denied the basic right to any education. Dad of two Kawa, 42, started over his life with his wife in Stockton-on-Tees. Now with two young children, his biggest hope for them is for “a normal life”. For him, that means going to school, hopefully moving on to university, and ultimately getting themselves a good job. After being university-educated and holding a well-paid job in Syria, he said starting over has been challenging but at Stockton Riverside College “you can feel the teachers are teaching from the heart. They really do care and not everyone is like that.”
“Refugees and people seeking asylum are a vital part of our college and they bring so much to our community. The staff here work tirelessly with the learners to build their confidence, support integration into the local community, and help them to progress into future opportunities, so it is wonderful to see that work recognised and celebrated with this award.”
English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) curriculum manager, Niki Crabb.
Stockton Riverside College’s executive principal, Lesley Graham, said: “Being a College of Sanctuary is about more than one department, it is about our whole ethos. We want our colleges to be a safe space for all our students. A diverse community brings value to all our learners, raising their awareness of the world and it encourages tolerance, acceptance and respect.”
Redcar and Cleveland College
Redcar and Cleveland College works in partnership with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council who have provision for supporting asylum seekers and refugees.
Executive principal, Jason Faulkner, said: “Redcar and Cleveland College is proud to be recognised with College of Sanctuary status. This is recognition that we are an ambassador for equality and diversity, helping those most in need in our communities.”
Good News Story 2
Introduction
In 2019, a resilient refugee family comprising a young girl, her parents, and a teenage brother arrived in the UK. The family’s arrival marked the beginning of a transformative journey, where they faced significant challenges including language barriers, mental health struggles, and past traumas.
Through the dedicated support of the Resettlement Scheme and their unwavering determination, this family has not only overcome adversity but has also begun to thrive in their new environment.
Background
Upon their arrival, neither the children nor their parents were proficient in English, having received their education in their mother tongue language. The resettlement team facilitated the enrolment of the teenage children in Middlesbrough College, recognising the importance of education in their integration process.
Challenges Faced
- Mental health struggles: the mother and father both battled with mental health issues exacerbated by the weight of their past traumas.
- The mother, in particular, faced significant challenges due to her weight upon arrival.
Support and Interventions
The family received invaluable support from the Resettlement Scheme. The father engaged in counselling sessions, leading to a remarkable improvement in his mental wellbeing. Furthermore, he gained a sense of control over his medical condition, and his proficiency in English has steadily improved.
Over the past two years, the mother’s health has witnessed a dramatic improvement. Regular walks, attendance at local women’s groups, and participation in resettlement-organised trips have been instrumental in her progress. She has also lost a substantial amount of weight, experiencing an evident boost in her overall happiness and wellbeing.
Educational Pursuits
The young refugee girl harboured a dream of studying law at the university level. With the unwavering support of the Resettlement Scheme, she enrolled in an Access Course in Law at college. Successfully securing a student loan, she received an offer from Newcastle University and commenced her first year in September 2023. Efforts are underway to secure suitable student accommodation in Newcastle.
The teenage brother, on the other hand, is pursuing his passion for technology and carpentry. He is currently engaged in Level 2 studies in Computer Science and GCSE English, and recently transitioned into a carpentry course at Middlesbrough College.
Conclusion
This case study serves as a testament to the resilience of refugees and the impact of dedicated support systems. Through the collaboration of the Resettlement Scheme and the family’s unyielding determination, they have not only triumphed over adversity but have also begun to thrive and contribute positively to their local community. Their journey exemplifies the potential for transformation when refugees are provided with the necessary resources and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
