Ukrainian refugees are adapting well to life in Bradford

Around 35 to 40 refugees from Ukraine are collectively attending three classes which have been set up in Bradford to help them learn the language, as well as employment skills.

One man who has been working closely with the refugees since they first arrived in the district is Wahid Rashid, who is a refugee engagement coordinator at Bradford Council.

Mr Rashid set up the English classes in partnership with Duncan Burnett, the head of adult learning at Bradford College, and the Ukrainian Club on Legrams Lane.

“I’ve never come across a refugee who doesn’t want to work. These people want to fit in and don’t want to be a burden,” he said.

Ewhen Chymera, the director of Bradford Ukrainian Club (left) and Wahid Rashid (right)

“A lot of the people in our classes now have jobs. They are working in the day and are still attending classes in the evening, to help improve their English even further.

“They are making a difference to Bradford by working here. They are active citizens who are helping to improve the local economy.”

Ukrainian refugees learning English and employment skills

Mr Rashid explained that he worked closely with the already well-established Ukrainian community in Bradford to help paint a picture of what newly-arrived refugees from the country may be in need of.

“Every group of people has different needs,” he said.

“I spoke with Ewhen Chymera, the director of Bradford Ukrainian Club, who said the biggest problem for Ukrainian refugees would be the language barrier.

“He asked if we could help with that, and that’s how we set up the classes, which are held at the Ukrainian Club.

“People will naturally feel more comfortable in an environment where people speak the same language and are from the same culture, especially having left a war-torn country, and having left their family and friends behind.

“The demand has been very high and it’s been a success.”

Mr Rashid said that other programmes are also training refugees from Ukraine in various fields, including health and social care and hospitality.

“We also have projects like the Welcome Café, where refugees from around the world are making fresh food and selling it to the public, while gaining qualifications, skills and experience at the same time,” he added.

Refugees who have helped to contribute to the success of the Welcome Cafe in Bradford

“Bradford has been the first to lead on projects like this this. We are a City of Sanctuary, and we are making a difference.”