Creative English was featured in a case study for Healthwatch Barking and Dagenham, which highlights the impact of community and connection on mental health and wellbeing.
The Creative English team run sessions for people with little or no English to build their confidence and language skills for everyday situations like talking to neighbours, doctors, teachers, shop assistants and landlords. The isolation which can occur when you move away from familiar support networks, combined with the feelings of disempowerment when you can’t do the things you need to look after yourself and your family can have a very negative effect on mental health, especially if it is long term, and many Creative English participants have been referred to the programme because of the positive impact it has on well-being. Being part of a fun, friendly community while building your skills makes a huge difference.