English Lessons
Are you a qualified ESOL (English as a Second Language) teacher looking for a way to help those most in need of effective language support? We’re always on the lookout for trained teachers to help us to keep our extensive ESOL programme of classes running.
Maybe you aren’t a trained teacher but would be able to offer classroom support or one to one conversation practice? We are equally interested to hear from you – there are so many ways to get involved in supporting our ESOL programme.
If you have some time to spare and want to find out more about our ESOL volunteering opportunities, send us an email on [email protected]
We also welcome any financial donations to fund stationery, dictionaries or access to tech to support learning. Donations to support our ESOL project can be made on the ‘supporting City of Sanctuary’ page.
Befriending
We welcome local people to come along on a one-off or regular basis to social events or to Global Link’s drop-in at the YMCA 12-2pm every Tuesday to simply offer friendship and support to local refugees – this can make such a positive difference to the lives of people who have been through very difficult times. Email Gisela Reynolds at Global Link for more information. We appreciate offers of help to prepare food, wash up or clear up on a one-off or regular basis.
If you have an event or activity you may be able to support or set up i.e. sport, music, food, walks, etc., You can also email City of Sanctuary if you would like to discuss more ways to be involved.
Translating
We are always looking for Arabic, Kurdish Sorani and Farsi speakers. Please email City of Sanctuary who will then be able to help identify how you can be most helpful.
Bicycles and cycling equipment
Equipment such as locks, bicycle pumps, lights and helmets are extremely useful as travel costs often stop people seeking asylum and refugees accessing activities. If you would like to BORROW a bike, or DONATE a bike, or HELP FIX bikes, please contact Sue Holden who runs the Bikes for Lancaster project on [email protected]
Household equipment, furniture and utensils
We currently do not need any household donations as asylum seekers are placed in houses that have everything they need provided. However, as individuals are given leave to remain they then find themselves needing to build a whole new life. As and when this happens we will put a call out for such donations through our facebook page.
Clothing
The majority of individuals currently arriving into accommodation in Lancaster and Morecambe area are young men and it is often difficult to find donations of good quality clothing for this age group. If you are having a clear out, we are always looking for donations of mens clothing in good condition, especially warm winter clothing, coats and shoes or boots. Also any walking boots or sports equipment are much appreciated!
We are also always on the lookout for football boots as we have many keen footballers with unsuitable footwear.If you can help with donations, please email us on [email protected]
Food
Global Link deliver a fantastic drop in every Tuesday afternoon. Each week they provide a warm and delicious traditional meal from different corner of the globe for anyone who attends. This is always cooked by talented volunteer chefs from the community. They are always happy to receive donations of fresh or frozen food, tinned tomatoes, oil, dried pulses and spices. Email Gisela Reynolds to arrange.
Fundraising
Do you have skills and experience in writing funding bids or organising fundraising events and activities? We welcome assistance on a one-off or regular basis. To volunteer please email us at City of Sanctuary.
Photo by Margarida Afonso on Unsplash