Gabriela is living proof ESOL works

Gabriela Jencova is a perfect example of just how useful and successful free ESOL courses can be.

Born in the Czech Republic, Gabriela, 25, moved to the UK two years ago and started work for Littlewoods Shop Direct Home Shopping Group at the Raven Mill site in Chadderton, Greater Manchester.

"My ESOL classes have helped me settle down very well in Manchester and in my job," she said. "I was taught some English at school back home in the Czech Republic but only enough to get by. When I first came to England, I would listen and try to speak but it wasn't easy.

"My union Learning Rep Terry Dean told me about the ESOL classes running in the on-site Learning Pad and he encouraged me to enrol.

"The two-hour classes ran for 13 weeks and my English improved a great deal. I also met new people from other countries who were in the same situation.

"If I could give advice I would recommend members whose first language isn't English to speak to their learning rep and find out what courses are being run by the union for you."

What you can do to help

The Government proposes to end its financial support for ESOL in September so Usdaw is urging its reps to write to their MP and ask them to sign the Early Day Motion (EDM No.383).

Model letters and an in-depth briefing are available from the education department (0161 224 2804) or are available online.

"ESOL is all about promoting mutual respect and understanding inside and outside of work. It's also about tackling racism and social division," said John Hannett.

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