Interpreting courses helping for

According to Mebrak Ghebreweldi of Diversity Resource International, interpreting courses run in Hastings are empowering members of ethnic minorities in town to seek work and pursue further education.
Speaking at a recent presentation at the White Rock Theatre, she said: "Language has a very important part to play in helping people settle in a new country. Through courses like this we try to promote independence and confidence in our students. Not only can they help themselves with their new interpreting skills but they can also help other members of the ethnic communities by interpreting for schools, social services, hospitals and immigration services."
The courses are run in conjunction with Hastings Trust, which provides the funding for the scheme.
More than a dozen students received their qualifications and can now offer vital interpreting skills in languages ranging from Arabic to Armenian, from Cantonese to Polish.
Amanda Martin, of Hastings Trust, said: "This scheme is helping people integrate into the British way of life and the town is a better place because of it."
Diversity Resource International is starting a friendship scheme where volunteers befriend a foreign national and try and help them settle in the town. For details call 07979 717506.
Hastings Trust Community Regeneration Unit administers Innovative Finance, a small grants scheme for social enterprises and community groups. This initiative is designed to increase the opportunities for access to finance by those who may have been financially excluded. To contact Hastings Trust call Hastings 446373.
Hastings mayor Maureen Charlesworth said: "The work being done here is helping to make Hastings a friendlier place to live."