When I lived in the UK I trained as a volunteer with the CAB (Citizens’ Advice Bureau). The training was very intensive as the problems people brought to us covered a multitude of issues. I was living in a town that was considered wealthy & had no idea there was so much poverty, homelessness, debt, family issues & international relationships breakdowns where children were often whisked off by mothers leaving fathers bereft. Poverty & unemployment can make people feel very powerless. It was hugely rewarding.
In the 90s many migrants moved to my town in the UK, I set up a school in my local Church & recruited volunteers to teach English (I’m a modern language teacher). It was hugely enjoyable working in a team of genuine people who, albeit not qualified teachers, wanted to give. I met the most delightful people who, in turn, were eager to help us. I’ve been to weddings, christenings etc & made lifelong friends. A joyful period.
On retiring, I moved to Greystones in 2022. For the first time in my life, I knew nobody. So, I signed up with Wicklow Volunteer Centre – & found myself back teaching English – this time to Ukrainians. First in Greystones & added Bray in the summer. From the first class, I felt right at home. We were all in the same boat.
Some of the older people have no English at all & find it a real struggle. The 20/30 something year olds have studied English at school & tell of harrowing traumatic situations they endured before escaping. They now come bouncing in with expressions they’ve heard on the bus eager to find out what was really going on. There is a lot of laughter.
Many have already settled in Ireland, their children are now at school here so the odd bit of GAEILGE creeps in.
Others keep it all inside. We never pry but try to make them feel welcome keeping things as light-hearted as possible.