A survey of foreign nationals living in Spalding has revealed some disturbing welfare instances – but the overall feeling was one of appreciation of the much better lifestyle and improved standard of living.
It comes after completion of the first phase of Community Connectors, a project spearheaded by the Rev John Bennett, vicar of St Mary and St Nicolas Church, to explore improved cohesion.
More than 180 Polish, Latvian and Lithuanian people were surveyed about their experience of moving to England and settling in Spalding. Just six of the 182 said they would like to return.
The report uncovered instances of exploitation and prejudice/racism.
Exploitation of employees included working six weeks without a day off and accepting not receiving back pay they were due so they could keep their job.
Examples of landlords’ exploitation included renting a room only to a whole family, charging £600 per month for a double room and two instances of sex demands to enable the individual to remain in accommodation.
The biggest need identified in the project funded by the Bishop of Lincoln’s Social Justice Fund was help with learning English.
Mr Bennett said with a little patience and understanding from people whose mother tongue was English, it would be pleasing to see “our neighbours making progress as we chat with them and get to know them better”.
He added: “I hope that employers, schools, churches and voluntary organisations in Spalding can all commit to helping everyone to speak English.
“I would like to encourage English at all times in the workplace and even for children to ask their parents to talk to them in English at home.”
The report summarised: “The majority of those completing the questionnaires appreciate the benefits of living in this country especially as they are more financially stable, have a much better lifestyle and an improved standard of living for themselves and their families.
“With only six out of the total of 182 saying they wish to return ‘home’ it is obvious the benefits and future prospects are such that they intend to remain in this country permanently.
“With improved communication skills a lot of the issues raised could be addressed and avoided. It would also provide a better awareness of the rights and responsibilities when living in the UK.
“Being able to understand English (spoken and written) would facilitate social connection with the local community and with official organisations, improve career progression and help with self-esteem.”
