Many young people come to the Lake District to find work in busy hotels and restaurants.

Their experience is not always happy. They may struggle with the language and acute home sickness, as well as the long hours and very different culture.

Ambleside Parish Centre and Ambleside Methodist Church became aware of this situation and joined forces with Learning Plus (a local education provider) to meet these needs.

Two years on the project, known initially as Migrants Women’s Project (now Migrant Workers’ project as men wanted to come too), has worked with people ranging in age from 22 to 58 and from Colombia, Brazil, Hong Kong and Bolivia as well as from many European countries.

One of the members writes: “Not only have the classes given me an opportunity to improve my English but they have gone further ….The volunteers and teachers involved have understood the importance of strong pastoral care…his has created a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere where people felt they were not only improving their English but also spending time with new found friends with a common goal… I found the group to be practical and useful and also something to look forward to as a gratifying highlight of the week.”

The project leader is supported in her work by a number of dedicated volunteers, who enjoy the opportunity to meet and help other people.

  • Margaret Burford, Ambleside Methodist Church