One year on - breaking down barriers at the Language Café

The volunteer-run Orkney-Ukraine Language Café celebrated its first-year milestone at the weekend – and those who have benefited from its existence say they are keen for the project to continue. 

Although run by a group of volunteers, the Language Café was set up by the Resettlement Team at Orkney Islands Council as part of the Resettlement Schemes project for resettled Ukrainians who are looking to improve their English language skills. 

During the 40th anniversary of Volunteers’ Week (3-9 June 2024), the Language Café, based within the Youth Café, is a shining example of how valuable volunteering is within communities. 

The Language Café’s one-year anniversary was marked by volunteers and Ukrainians on Saturday 25 May, and those attending indicated a strong desire to continue the good work. 

The first meeting was held on 20 May 2023 and attended by three volunteers and five Ukrainians. Now we have a group of eight volunteers, with at least two of them running the meeting on a weekly basis. The number of Ukrainian attendees fluctuates due to their work and personal commitments, but generally the sessions are well attended, with an average of 6–8 Ukrainians present. Out of 20 Ukrainian adults residing in Orkney, more than 50% attend the Language Café meetings regularly and in all, 18 Ukrainians have benefitted over the past year. 

Gratitude was also expressed to the Orkney Youth Café for providing the premises. 

In celebrating and recognising volunteers, Nataliia Kuzmina, the Council’s Project Manager (Resettlement Schemes), said, “On behalf of Orkney Islands Council and Ukrainians in Orkney, I would like to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the Language Café volunteers. The work and support you provide to displaced Ukrainians is invaluable. 

“You create a safe and welcoming space where the refugees not only improve their English language skills but also heal their wounds and regain confidence. You made this initiative a success. Thank you for your continuous support.”