Penpals project is helping refugee children
Children from diverse ethnic and migrant communities have forged new friendships through an innovative penpals scheme.
Ten children of Syrian refugees living in Renfrewshire have been writing to ten youngsters of African heritage so they can learn more about the background of each other’s families.
And the impact on the youngsters, all aged between six and 11-years-old, has been powerful as they described making new friends during lockdown, gaining confidence and improving their English language and writing skills.
Rahaf Sharif, who coordinated the Syrian children who took part and works closely with Syrian families living in Ferguslie, said:“The children really enjoyed it.
“It was something new that made a difference for their lives during the restrictions in the pandemic. It helped them socially to make new friends, gave them confidence, meant less screen time and more positivity and self-expression through creativity.
“They learned to do something their parents had before the internet which helped improve their English writing, communication skills and encouraged them to learn about other cultures and be creative.”
The scheme has been led by the region’s Ethnic Communities
Cultural Steering Group which includes Renfrewshire Leisure, Pachedu, School of African Cultures, Jambo Radio, Inspiring Families and the University of the West of Scotland.
Renfrewshire Leisure cultural development officer Heather Paton said:“It has been fantastic to see the difference this has made to the children.
“Particularly during lockdown, we could see the difference that these connections were making, tackling loneliness while allowing them to learn about each other and what they enjoy about being in Scotland.
“This project will play an important part in shaping their outlook on life here while celebrating their family’s roots as well. This is something we can all embrace.”
The project’s success is attracting national interest, with a pilot project launched as part of Refugee Week securing £4,420 to continue it through this year with the aim of working with up to 40 children over four months.
The stories and artwork that the children share with each other will be collated into a book and shared with the public as part of Paisley Book Festival in February. Copies will be also shared in Renfrewshire’s libraries.