Since joining RMC’s ESOL classes, Hatim has gained the language skills and confidence to participate fully in daily life and work toward his personal and professional goals.
Arrival into the UK
When Hatim arrived in the UK in 2018, he could not speak or understand English. At 62, living alone in Walsall while his family remained in Sudan, he faced isolation and limited opportunities. Though fluent in Arabic and Italian, he found himself unable to access even the most basic opportunities in the UK, including understanding pricing in shops and reading directions on signs. A former lorry driver in Italy, he now hoped to support himself by finding warehouse work but without English speaking skills, this goal felt out of reach.
A turning point
In February 2024, Hatim joined the Refugee and Migrant Centre’s (RMC) ESOL classes. Twice a week, he attended lessons at RMC in the morning and later began to advance his studies at Walsall College in the afternoons. RMC classes focus not on grading but on practical daily life skills, such as reading a bus timetable and preparing for employment through interview practice. Speaking in class was challenging at first, but over six months, he began writing in English with confidence and gradually built the skills and self-belief to communicate more frequently.
Hatim has developed basic English skills that allow him to manage daily tasks, connect with others, and prepare for employment. He describes learning “new words which helped me do more actions”, a shift that makes him feel less isolated and more in control of his life.
A doorway to independence
For Hatim, English is not just a language; it is a doorway to independence. He reflects, “English language is an important language to master to communicate, with it you can communicate with all over the world.” For him, English is not just a language; it is a doorway to independence. Attending ESOL classes has increased his confidence, reduced his loneliness, and created a foundation for future employment. Most importantly, Hatim feels hopeful that he can support his family in Sudan, something that once seemed impossible.
More than just language lessons
RMC’s free ESOL classes offered Hatim more than language lessons. The supportive environment, respect, and encouragement gave him a sense of belonging and helped him persevere despite challenges. Without RMC, he would have remained excluded from opportunities to study, work, and integrate into his community.
Hatim’s journey shows the value of investing in language support, creating opportunities for independence and enabling individuals to contribute to society. Every class, workbook, and hour of tutoring funded by our supporters helps people like Hatim gain skills, hope, and the chance to actively participate in their communities.
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