More than words

More Than Just Words: Empowering Women Through Community ESOL

For many women in Glasgow, learning English isn’t just about mastering a new language; it’s about unlocking a new life. Imagine trying to understand your child’s school report in a new language, or navigating a medical appointment when every word feels like a hurdle.  ESOL or English for Speakers of Other Languages offer a lifeline and a way for non native speakers to integrate, connect and reach their potential in their new adopted city. A STV report from February 2025 highlights that Glasgow has the highest demand of English lessons in Scotland. At that time there were around 6,000 people on waiting lists for spaces in ESOL classes. The list is probably longer now.

At The Well, we’re proud to offer a community-led ESOL approach where our curriculum is shaped by the real-life needs of our learners. So how does the community-led approach work? From understanding education and healthcare to navigating shopping, travel, and the benefits system, our students have told us the language skills they need most. This is why we’ve covered things like understanding school communications, or learning how to book appointments at the GP and how to communicate symptoms. Learning English gives women confidence in everyday interactions. Things that native speakers often take for granted such as asking for directions, understanding food labels, and asking for help. The benefits are not just linguistic. It empowers these women to feel and actually be more independent, it helps with things like managing finances, it reduces feelings of isolation and has positive benefits on well-being.

We try to create a supportive and welcoming environment where women learn together. The women come to class for a variety of reasons with a big range in fluency and literacy skills. Their individual goals for learning English are equally diverse. Some seek essential everyday language skills, while others aspire to advance their English to college level.  Our women’s only class works to bring the ladies up to a level where they could progress to higher learning if the opportunity arises. Despite their hard work and dedication, there can be obstacles slowing down their learning journey. In addition to long waiting lists across the city, another common barrier to  learning is childcare.

The impact of these classes is best illustrated by the voices of the women themselves. One women shared this at the beginning of the term, “I can’t speak English outside. Everyone speaks quickly and I can’t understand. You speak slowly and clearly. I am confident speaking English here. ” So we’ve been working on building up her confidence inside class so she feels able to practice her skills outside the classroom. Another student was so proud when she told us she had made her an appointment with the GP for the first time by herself. She radiated delight when sharing her accomplishment.

For others, the class has been a place where they begin to build friendships and support networks. As one recently told us “It is good to come here. I enjoy Tuesdays.” and “‘ I have no friends, only the people at English Class.”  We notice that many stay after class for the community lunch held in Govanhill Free Church where they continue to practice their English and also grow their friendships.

This is what people mean when they say that ESOL classes are a lifeline. By learning English language skills, they are not only advancing themselves, they are also making friends, increasing resilience, and strengthening the fabric of our community. These community ESOL classes are empowering women to thrive in their new lives in Glasgow.