AQW 44444/22-27 Written question to the First Minister and deputy First Minister

To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any actions they are taking to support the free provision of English for Speakers of Other Languages, in line with the Refugee Integration Strategy.

Asked by Paula Bradshaw MLA on 21 April 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
  • After due date
Tabled
21 April 2026
Answer due by
7 May 2026
Answered
13 May 202622 days after tabling
Department
The Executive Office
Priority question
No

Answer

We recognise that the ability to speak the English language is a key enabler for integration into society.

Our Department has provided funding to Councils to support the integration of migrants in their areas. One of the agreed deliverables is the local provision of, or signposting to, community-based conversational ESOL classes.

The draft Framework for Race Relations, which is currently subject to a public consultation, also includes access to ESOL for all minority ethnic communities as one of the proposed primary interventions.

Through continued delivery of the Refugee Integration Strategy and any final Framework for Race Relations, we will continue to build on initial work progressed to enhance ESOL provision.

Official sources