Testimonials | Welcome to the UK

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TESTIMONIALS

Olena,
Ukrainian Hub member

The Ukrainian Hub has been a lifeline for me and my family. We’ve met friends, learned English, and finally feel like we belong here. The support we've received has made all the difference, whether it's through helping us navigate daily challenges or simply offering a place where we can share our experiences. Welcome to the UK it's a safe space where we can express ourselves without fear of judgment. Thanks to them, we now have a deeper sense of hope and stability for the future.

Ahmed,
volunteer & class participant

I came to improve my English but ended up improving my whole life; finding work, friends, and a community that supports me. The resources here have helped me gain confidence in speaking and navigating daily life. I never expected to feel so welcome and encouraged in a new place. The people I’ve met along the way have made all the difference, and I now feel more hopeful about the future.

Susana: ESOL student & volunteer

I came to Welcome to the UK and wanted to take part in both the English classes and the friendship group. All of the staff and volunteers are very helpful and friendly and the friendship group is fun because there are many different nationalities and languages. I have made new friends, learnt about different cultures and I get to practice my English skills. I have become less shy and a more open person.

Aizhana: ESOL student & volunteer

I joined Welcome to the UK in January 2019. Ilda, the Founder & Coordinator, has supported me and my family through both the good times and the bad. If my family ever has problems, I know that I can depend on Welcome to the UK to help. By coming to the English classes and the friendship group, both my written and spoken English has greatly improved and I am so happy now.

Tetiana,
ESOL student & volunteer

When I first came to the UK, I didn’t speak English. Thanks to Welcome to the UK, I joined classes and made friends. Now I work part-time and my children are happy in school. The classes were not just about learning the language, but also about understanding the culture and getting to know others in similar situations. It feels like we’ve found a second home here, and I’m so grateful for the opportunities and support we’ve received.

N.

ESOL learner

Coming here has given me confidence I never thought I’d have. I can now talk to my children’s teachers and help them with homework. I also feel more comfortable when I go shopping or visit the doctor. It’s amazing how much my life has changed in such a short time. The help I’ve received has made me feel stronger and more independent, and I’m proud of everything I’ve learned and achieved.

Hanife,
Friendship Group Attendance

I’m from Albania, and I have two kids, a girl and a boy. I’ve lived in the UK for three years. At first, it was hard because we didn’t speak English. Then I met Ilda, who helped with everything, from GP appointments to school meetings and interpreting. She introduced me to the Welcome to the UK groups, where I met wonderful friends. These groups helped my English and built my confidence. I’m so thankful to Ilda and Welcome to the UK!

Noemi,
ESOL student

I’m from Romania. I’ve lived in the UK for nearly 3 years, but the first year was very difficult for me. I didn’t speak English, I didn’t have any friends, and I just stayed at home looking after my son. I felt very upset and lonely. Then I started an English course at SACC, and my life changed completely. There, I found out about Welcome to the UK. The groups feel like a second family, and we understand each other’s struggles. It’s a lovely, friendly community."

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