jonbeech

This article is part of an occasional series sharing not just what LASSN does, but why it matters. Every one of our projects has grown over many years, shaped by the experiences, insights, and creativity of staff, volunteers, and the people we support. By reflecting on the “why” behind our work, we hope to show how deeply it is rooted in our values—and how, thanks to our volunteers, funders and supporters, LASSN continues to practise a quietly radical approach: bringing together the strengths and priorities of everyone involved to create lasting change. Looking at notes English at Home Why a Classroom Isn’t Always the Answer Traditional ESOL often means attending classes in a community centre or college, where the times are fixed and it’s easy to fall behind if you miss a lesson. For many parents juggling childcare, people with disabilities or past trauma, and new arrivals navigating official systems, those models just don’t work. Without practical English, everyday life in Leeds—from booking a GP to joining a playgroup—can feel out of reach, and that impacts whole families. Bringing ESOL to People’s Doorstep Our solution is simple: we train volunteers to visit learners at home for one‑to‑one, relationship‑based sessions. By removing barriers like transport, childcare or Wi‑Fi, people can easily access ESOL in their homes and learn key life skills. Power in the Learner’s Hands There’s no set curriculum; learners choose their topics—whether that’s booking a GP appointment, reading a letter from school, visiting local shops or filling in a form. Volunteers listen, clarify language and learn alongside them. It’s real‑life English in real settings, with the learner empowered to focus on what matters most. As confidence grows, learners use these skills in everyday life—booking health appointments, joining community groups and attending college when the time is right. Everyday Kindness as Mutual Aid Swapping stories over a biscuit, sharing where to buy the best falafel in Kirkgate Market, or laughing about Yorkshire dialect—these simple gestures weave people into Leeds life. Small acts of welcome ripple out into a friendlier, more connected community. As one learner told her teacher, “You were the first person who smiled at me while I was here in the UK.” Shifting Power, Together Our volunteers don’t hold all the answers. They co‑create each session as equals, validating the learner’s experience. This learner‑centred approach isn’t just best practice; it’s transformative. People don’t just learn English—they find the confidence to use it by enrolling their children at school, joining a sewing class or even volunteering themselves. Tutors learn about home cultures and customs while developing their own confidence and skills, and become part of a supportive network of volunteer tutors. Peace Building Bridges—Today and Tomorrow Each year, LASSN volunteers deliver about 2,000 home‑based English lessons to roughly 100 learners. English at Home is about dignity, access and agency—removing barriers to education so people gain the language skills to build their future. by David Skivington and Jon Beech Find out more about becoming an [...]

The State of Us A new report called The State of Us has been published by British Futures and the Belong Network. It looks at why people are feeling more divided, disconnected, and under pressure — as well as describing how communities are quietly holding things together through everyday acts of care, connection, and welcome. What the Report Found A year after violent Islamophobic and racist protests and unrest in many towns and cities, things still feel fragile. People are angry and anxious — mainly because it’s harder for them to afford the basics, public services feel stretched to breaking point, and immigration and asylum are being used as political footballs. The State of Us The report calls this a “social powder keg” — a build-up of tension that could easily flare up. Confidence in government, the media, and public services is low. A lot of people feel like the people in charge aren’t listening, and decisions are being made in a panic rather than with long-term thinking. Even so, the report states that most people still feel a sense of connection to where they live. Around 7 in 10 say their neighbours from different backgrounds get on well. Friendships, volunteering, and informal support networks are at the heart of this. Immigration – especially the asylum system – is often where tension shows up most. When people don’t know or have regular contact with people seeking asylum, it’s easier for fear and misinformation to take hold. The messages from politicians (from all the main parties) often don’t help, and can make things worse instead of bringing people together. The report highlights the importance of small, local projects that help people connect. These include community arts, interfaith projects, and events that bring people together over food and conversation. These are the things that build trust and belonging in real, practical ways. What Needs to Happen? The report calls for a shift in focus—from short-term, headline-driven responses to long-term, community action. It asks funders and decision-makers to support local organisations everywhere, not just in places where violence and hatred flare up, and to fund work that reflects the values and strengths of local people, rather than chasing quick wins. It also highlights the need to tackle hate and misinformation online by properly resourcing the organisations and individuals who are on the receiving end of this negativity. Crucially, it stresses the importance of celebrating the things we share, telling nuanced, more inclusive stories about who we are, and ensuring that people with lived experience aren’t just consulted, but lead the way in shaping what happens next. So where does LASSN fit in? The State of Us report paints a familiar picture for anyone working with refugees and people seeking asylum in the UK: rising demand, stretched funding, and an overwhelming sense of distrust in systems that are meant to support people. At LASSN, we see this every day — and we’re doing what we can to respond in practical ways that focus [...]