A thought-provoking and moving presentation this afternoon at Woodhill House on the Aberdeenshire New Scots’ Resettlement Programme.
Since February last year 103 Syrian and Iraqi people fleeing the conflict in their own countries have settled in central Aberdeenshire, helped by the council. The majority of them spoke no English, which is a challenge in settling down here, as much as the totally different culture. They have all the things we take for granted to cope with such as form-filling, accessing public services including health services, and so on.
The thought of being moved to another country where I don’t understand the language or the way of life is daunting.
Not only that, they have come from a war environment. One boy, we were told, is so frightened by helicopters flying overhead that he runs away. Remember the barrel bombs we saw on the TV news? It was reality for him.
Councillors heard how the local communities have been very supportive, and there have been no reports of any race hate issues.
The families are entitled to work, but the barrier is speaking English. The youngsters are fitting in and learning the language (with Scots accents), but for the adults it is more difficult. They come from a variety of backgrounds, including tailor, chef, farmer, factory owner and travel agent. Four babies have been born here.
There are more families due to come to Aberdeenshire, from camps in Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan or Iraq.
I would hope any families who were to come to the Portlethen or Stonehaven areas would also be given a warm welcome.
It is all funded by the Home Office, by the way, including the team of five council staff who co-ordinate the programme.
Truthfully – no joke. If they can be encouraged to go to Thainstone Carboot Sales on a Sunday they might meet there own kind and obviously get language help, maybe pick up some bargains?? and even a touch of Doric There are plenty carbooters of different backgrounds and cultures. Obviously not allow themselves to be conned.