Supporting Language Skills
One of Sandwell’s strengths is it’s diversity. Our vibrant local community includes people from all over the world who have chosen to make Sandwell their home.
One way we can make people feel welcome is to support their English language skills. Research shows that if we are are confident in English we have better life opportunities, better community relationships and even better health.
So, in line with our Stronger Sandwell principle that “nobody is left behind” – we’ve made supporting language skills a key priority!
The Sandwell Language Network (SLN)
The Sandwell Language Network is a new project funded by the Governments ‘Controlling Migration Fund’. It’s led by a partnership of local organisations that include Sandwell Consortium, Sandwell College, Sandwell Public Health and SCVO.
It aims to increase the availability of English language support in the borough (including English for Speakers of Other Languages – ESOL), improve the quality of provision and support language learners towards employability.
There’s so much amazing local work to build on. For example, our partner Brushstrokes have some powerful examples of how language support has changed the lives of Sandwell people. You can read them here.
The Sandwell Language Network was launched on 30th January at an event opened by Dr Lisa McNally – Sandwell’s Director of Public Health (see below).
Contact us for more information on the Sandwell Language Network.
