Learn Gaelic and don’t hit your children, Isles council tells Syrians
WHEN moving to the Western Isles, residents may typically advise incomers to be prepared to adjust to the remote way of life.
But a guide given to newly arrived Syrian refugees is much more specific – advising them not to smack children, to be aware that Sundays are a day of rest and to consider learning Gaelic.
Western Isles Council has published a 30-page ‘welcome pack’, in English and Arabic, which tells recent arrivals on Lewis about island life and the cultural differences between living in the UK and Syria.
Earlier this month, two families became the first Syrian refugees to be homed in the Outer Hebrides and a council spokesman said they were ‘getting on well’.
They arrived under the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme, part of the UK Government’s pledge to rehome 20,000 people by 2020.
It comes after two Syrian families relocated to the Isle of Bute under the same scheme spoke of the difficulties they face.
Abd, 42, his wife Rasha, 35, and their four children, along with Rasha’s sister Fatima, 31, her husband Hassan, 41, and their two daughters, were given homes in Rothesay in November last year. The refugees, whose
‘Take heed of basic personal safety’
real identities were not revealed to protect their families in Syria, said at the weekend that they loved the people of Scotland but were struggling to learn the language and find employment.
As well as the Welcome Guide, the new arrivals on Lewis were given access to an interpreter and English language classes. They also received tips on how to set up bank accounts and contact a doctor.
The guide states: ‘Sundays in the Outer Hebrides are different than other places in the UK and it is still traditionally viewed as a “day of rest” with many shops and offices remaining closed for the day. Hotels and pubs may open for limited hours on a Sunday providing access to food and drinks. The hospital still remains open to meet emergencies.’
It adds: ‘Many of the large supermarkets will sell some food you may like. There are two main supermarkets that provide a range of fresh, tinned and frozen produce. Supermarkets may also reduce the price of fresh food that must be sold that day... most shops are not open on Sunday, remember to stock up on Saturday!’
A section titled ‘The Law’ points to cultural differences between Scotland and Syria and offers basic guidance on things such as smacking children, carrying knives and drink-driving. For leisure time, it recommends walking, sailing, cycling and learning Gaelic.
It says: ‘There is much to see and do, and most of it in relative safety. However, it is important to be aware – the weather can change in an instant and calm sea or sunny hillsides can change very quickly. We would ask that you take heed of basic personal safety tips to ensure you enjoy these activities safely.’
Angus Campbell, leader of Western Isles Council, said: ‘The various agencies, community organisations and volunteers are currently working to give the families the basic support and space that they need to readjust to family life here in the Hebrides. I am heartened to hear that a welcoming response from our community has already been appreciated by the families.’
A council spokesman said: ‘Our welcome pack and its contents were shaped by good practice and issued by Cosla. Such packs are expected to help families as they to integrate into the community.’