What We Do

Our Aims

Mission: to provide a positive, safe and stimulating environment for young parents and young people, predominantly asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants not engaged in education, employment or training. To enjoy their learning, achieve their potential, and successfully integrate, become independent and part of the local community.

Vision: Bringing all communities together in Barnsley through English, with the core value of life-long learning for those in need.

Our Charity Objectives

Our charity objectives at ELSH are crafted with a sincere commitment to fostering social inclusion and empowerment for those marginalized due to social and economic disparities. Through our programs, we offer a welcoming environment where individuals can access essential support to enhance their functional skills and confidence.

Education and Training:

We extend a warm invitation to design our curriculum by listening and involving our cohorts during our meetings to foster their journey of learning and growth. Through active listening and meaningful engagement with our cohorts during our meetings, we ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are met. By actively involving our community in the design process, we foster a sense of ownership and commitment to their learning journey.

Furthermore, we are dedicated to crafting innovative projects that directly address the feedback and aspirations shared by our students. Enabling us to tailor our initiatives to meet the specific needs and aspirations of our community, unlocking new avenues of opportunity and empowering individuals to realise their full potential, where every contribution plays a crucial role in making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Together, we are creating a brighter future for all.

Social and Recreational Engagement:

Together, we are creating a vibrant social and recreational facilities and events that bring together the local community. Their support is enabling us to foster connections, build relationships, and strengthen the framework of our society. ELSH plays a pivotal role in fostering positive change and making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Working together to build a more inclusive and vibrant community for all.

ELSH’s Unique Approach Involves:

Comprehensive Early Intervention:

Our programs provide crucial early-stage English learning, enabling students to reach the required language proficiency to access further educational opportunities. This targeted intervention helps bridge the gap for those who might otherwise be excluded from mainstream education due to language barriers.

Community Integration:

By collaborating with various agencies, we assist refugees, asylum seekers, and E.U migrants in understanding British culture and knowing their rights and responsibilities. Our weekly Drop-In Hub offers support and advice on legal issues, housing, volunteering, education, employment, health, and more.

Student Placements and Research:

We offer invaluable placement opportunities from British young people students and international students some of them are from Barnsley College, Northern College, Huddersfield University, Sheffield University, and Sheffield Hallam University. These placements provide students with practical experience and insights into working with the BAME community, while also contributing to ongoing research and development of our programs.

Volunteer-Led Teaching:

Our dedicated volunteers, many of whom have previously benefited from ELSH’s services, create an empathetic and supportive learning environment. This peer-driven approach enhances the learning experience and fosters a unique sense of understanding and solidarity.

Innovative Language Education:

Despite the financial constraints of formal ESOL certification, ELSH has developed an innovative and flexible approach to language education. Our curriculum, while not formally accredited, follows ESOL guidelines and equips students with practical language skills. Our attendance certificates serve as a valuable alternative, empowering students to navigate crucial aspects of daily life.

Future Goals:

• Financial Sustainability: Enhancing our fundraising skills with support from SYFAB, Barnsley Council, and Barnsley CVS.
• Board Strengthening: Reviewing skills, sourcing necessary training, and recruiting new members.
• Expansion Opportunities: Exploring additional spaces for delivering projects, including hiring venues or utilizing other organisations’ spaces.
• Volunteer and Staff Development: Offering training and progression opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Partnership Development: Strengthening existing relationships and forming new ones to benefit our diverse communities.

We are profoundly grateful for the support from our funders and donations organisations, whose contributions enable us to continue our vital work. Your support helps us to further develop our organisation, partnerships, volunteers, staff, and students, ensuring that ELSH remains a cornerstone of empowerment and integration for our community.

To our educational partners—Barnsley College, Northern College, Huddersfield University, Sheffield University, and Sheffield Hallam University—thank you for your collaboration. By providing your students with placement opportunities at ELSH, you are enhancing their educational experience and contributing to the betterment of our community. Together, we are making a significant and positive impact on the lives of those we serve.