Glasgow Refugees Gain Vital Language Skills with £500K Scottish Government Support
In a landmark move to support refugees, asylum seekers, and forced migrants in Glasgow, the Scottish Government has committed £500,000 to fund English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes. This initiative will support over 800 learners to develop essential language skills, opening doors to greater social inclusion, employment opportunities, and personal growth.
The programme is a crucial part of Scotland's ongoing effort to support "New Scots", the term used to refer to refugees, asylum seekers, and those forced to migrate due to conflict, persecution, or environmental disaster. For many of these individuals, navigating a new country, culture, and language can be overwhelming. With this funding, the Scottish Government aims to make the journey easier and more dignified.
This approach is not only humane but also practical. Stronger language skills help refugees contribute to their new communities, enter the workforce, and lead independent, fulfilling lives.
For refugees and asylum seekers, learning English is more than just a tool for communication. It represents independence, dignity, and the ability to participate fully in society. Without it, even simple daily tasks like shopping, banking, or accessing healthcare can become daunting challenges.
As Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart stated:
“As a refugee or a person seeking asylum whose first language is not English, having the opportunity to learn English opens up a world of possibilities – from being able to interact confidently with people, to taking part in community events and making new friends.”
These ESOL classes aren’t just about teaching vocabulary and grammar. They provide a safe, welcoming space where students can build social connections, make friends, and feel part of a community.
Many students who take part in ESOL classes report a boost in self-confidence and a greater sense of empowerment. Their testimonials highlight the profound impact of learning English on their personal and professional development.
Behind the headlines are the personal stories of people whose lives have been changed through this initiative.
Karzan Mahmood, from Iraq, recalls how, before joining the ESOL classes, he couldn’t write a single word in English. Starting as a complete beginner, he steadily progressed through different learning stages. Today, he can write formal emails and paragraphs, a significant achievement that he credits to the "brilliant, helpful" teachers. His goal now is to move up to the next level and pursue a career in IT or accounting.
Sohail Siraj, from Pakistan, described his experience as “amazing,” and praised his teacher's patience and encouragement. He said that attending classes lifted his spirits and motivated him to achieve more. For Sohail, the classes are not just a chance to improve his language skills but a source of emotional well-being.
Nataliia Yanishevska, from Ukraine, explained how learning English had improved her confidence in both volunteering and everyday life. As a volunteer, being able to communicate effectively has helped her lead workshops and engage with diverse groups. She also noted that her skills had improved her ability to handle daily interactions, giving her a sense of independence.
These stories showcase the human impact of ESOL classes. Each individual has gained not just language skills, but also hope, self-reliance, and opportunity.
The £500,000 of Scottish Government funding will be distributed via the Glasgow ESOL Partnership, which includes institutions such as:
Glasgow Clyde College
Glasgow Kelvin College
City of Glasgow College
Glasgow Life
ESOL Scotland
The Workers' Educational Association (WEA)
These institutions work collaboratively to address the growing demand for ESOL services in Glasgow, a city that has become a major hub for refugee resettlement in Scotland.
The funding will ensure:
Access to classes for 800 learners over the coming months.
Opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers to improve their employment prospects.
A community-focused approach to support people in rebuilding their lives.
Through the partnership, students receive access to more than just language classes. They benefit from wraparound services that support them in accessing employment opportunities, building life skills, and improving their mental well-being.
This policy is part of the wider effort by the Scottish Government to support refugees under the "New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy", which focuses on helping displaced individuals integrate successfully into Scottish society.
Unlike some other countries that focus on short-term relief, Scotland’s approach is rooted in long-term support. This commitment is evident in its support for housing, healthcare, and education for refugees and asylum seekers.
Scotland's ethos of "welcoming New Scots" is a direct response to the ongoing global refugee crisis. Conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and, more recently, Ukraine have led to large numbers of people seeking refuge. The ESOL funding is a proactive measure to ensure these new arrivals receive the support they need to thrive.
At a time when many Western nations are adopting stricter immigration policies, Scotland’s approach stands in stark contrast. Empathy and opportunity are at the heart of its refugee strategy.
Why This Policy Deserves Praise
Long-term investment: Teaching refugees English doesn’t just help them get through the day, it builds independence, confidence, and employability for years to come.
Empowerment: Many refugees arrive with professional qualifications, but without English, they can’t use those skills. Learning the language enables them to work in healthcare, education, and technical sectors, where skills shortages exist.
Social inclusion: Language can be a barrier that isolates people from their new communities. ESOL classes break down that barrier, encouraging greater social interaction and reducing loneliness.
Economic benefits: Helping people into work reduces reliance on state support, increases tax revenue, and fills labour market gaps. It’s a win-win for everyone.
While the policy is a clear step in the right direction, critics might argue that £500,000 for 800 learners is a relatively small investment. Demand for ESOL classes is often higher than available places, with waiting lists reported in some areas.
Additionally, offering only two classes per week, as noted by Sohail Siraj, may not be enough for some learners to achieve fluency. Increasing the frequency of lessons could enable students to learn faster and enter the workforce more quickly.
There’s also a case for expanding ESOL provision beyond Glasgow, as other areas of Scotland have seen growing numbers of refugees, particularly in Edinburgh, Dundee, and Aberdeen.
By funding English classes for refugees, the Scottish Government is delivering a policy that is both compassionate and pragmatic. These classes support people at their most vulnerable while encouraging them to become active participants in Scottish society.
The stories of people like Karzan, Sohail, and Nataliia highlight the profound impact of these classes. From learning to send an email to leading workshops, the personal growth is undeniable.
Yes, the funding could be larger, and yes, more classes could be offered. But this policy is a lifeline for refugees, a chance for them to regain their independence and make a lasting contribution to Scotland.
At a time when so much of the world is turning away from displaced people, Scotland is choosing to welcome, educate, and empower them. That choice deserves praise.
