A new display in East Sussex libraries is highlighting the positive experiences of Ukrainian guests as they reflect on their lives in East Sussex.
Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, many Ukrainians now call East Sussex home – whether that’s for the long or short-term. Thanks to the support from the Homes for Ukraine scheme, many of our guests have settled into local communities and rebuilt their lives here.
To shine a spotlight on the positive experiences guests have had integrating into local communities, our libraries have created a display of posters called ‘Voices of Ukraine’.
Library volunteers Veronica Clark and Ken Read sat down with Ukrainian guests who attend the English conversation group at Eastbourne library. These groups are relaxed, drop-in sessions and aim to help international adults improve their spoken English.
During this session, the conversation covered everything from attending school, working, gardening, as well as the guests’ hopes for one day returning to their lives in Ukraine.
Natalia
Voices of Ukraine
Vilii, from Chernihiv, said: “We like having English lessons in the library in Eastbourne. It is very welcoming. There is a friendly atmosphere.”
Of course, there are other places in the community where learning English has been provided. Margarita, from Dnipro, said: “My son likes Bourne School. He has special English lessons.”
Natalia, from Zaporizhzhia, further highlights how her local community in East Sussex has supported her to learn English: “The people at St John’s Church are welcoming. We learn English there.”
Willii
It’s clear that thoughts of home are never far away for guests. “I worry very much about my mother who lives in Ukraine”, shared one participant, “we read the news about the war every morning, early, and late evening. We feel very, very sad, nervous and very, very worried.”
With hopes of one day returning to a peaceful Ukraine, the group are grateful to be in a safe and welcoming place.
“When I wake up I am happy because it is so peaceful”, said Valentyna, from Dnipro, “My host lets me work in her garden. I love that.”
You can see the Voices of Ukraine exhibition at Eastbourne Library from October to January. A selection of the posters will also be on display at Hastings, Newhaven, Rye, Lewes, Newhaven and Crowborough libraries during this period.
Margarita
Support and resources
East Sussex libraries provide welcoming, safe spaces and in recognition have been awarded Sanctuary Status. We offer conversation and language courses as well as free internet access, child and baby rhyme and storytimes and advice on where to find to other supportive services. Anyone who would like to improve their English and connect with other international adults is welcome to drop by to a free English conversation group anytime.
Discover reads that celebrate the Ukrainian community and heritage, learn about special Reading Friends Groups and more about learning English in libraries: Voices of Ukraine homepage.
Valentyna
