New Scots Lanarkshire Event: EK Integration Network Key Takeaways

On 6th Feb 2025, we were invited to present at the Lanarkshire New Scots Integration Network. The aim was to increase awareness of cultural and ethnic barriers to improve the experiences of our community. The organisations ranged from third sector to NHS, and council departments.

Ekin provided an outline of what we do and why. Five of our community made up the Lived Experience Panel Discussion communicating their experiences. The attendees formed groups and discussed ways to better engage and support migrants.

Our guys from EKin gave some top tips:

1.      Do not presume

We have been guilty of assuming everyone understands the systems that we are familiar with banking, transport, electricity, billing, rules/laws. It is better to ask than just assume as you risk leaving someone to struggle themselves needlessly.

This does not need to be condescending, you have heard from incredibly intelligent, educated individuals who struggled with the unfamiliar, as we all would.

We need to be supportive, check familiarity and understanding, and explain new systems, methods and instructions.

2.      Consider Extra Time

 When speaking to someone new to the country, be aware they may need processing time to adjust to the language, accent and dialect.

Our accent in Scotland is not as familiar as the US or English accents that are more common on media platforms. It is important to speak clearly, pronouncing words to be understood. And remember, our common words do not always make sense.

Often people using a second language are translating in their heads. If we talk quickly and there is a pressure to talk quickly, then it will add stress and prevent people from full understanding. Very often, second language speakers will miss words that we speak. Either because we talk too fast and they are grabbing onto words to get the gist of the topic, or the words we use are colloquial and not understood or our accent makes them sound unfamiliar. Either way, the likelihood is that the context and real meaning is missed, despite being able to communicate well. Please check understanding.

3.      Use Written Communication

Overall, written information is far better understood than phoning/ video calls/ voicemails.

It is much easier to translate written information and take the time to understand. People can ask for support when reading about unfamiliar structures, providing time for explanation and processing.

Written information can be used for reference. Leaving written information even after verbal communication can be useful as a guide or for checking information.

Consider providing written information well in advance.  Documents that require signatures could be provided prior to the expectancy of a signature. This reduces anxiety and allows the information to be understood fully. It is very common that our community do not understand the rules that they are asked to sign, and they are expected to remember.

This includes providing written information about moving accommodation, instructions for heating, ways to receive medication or medical help, use of transport, banking procedures, and steps to apply for benefits or support.

4.      Awareness of Isolation

Our community often arrive without a support system in place. No friends or family that offer practical, emotional or physical help. The process of seeking asylum and refugee means that people are often forced into a vulnerable position, and it is vital that we appreciate that extra support is essential to ensure that people can integrate and become vital members of our community to their benefit and each of ours.

5.      Remember our privilege

Know your privilege from being born in this country.

I was born with the right to live here, I did nothing to deserve it, but I have it nonetheless and with that comes my right to healthcare, education, housing, protection, freedoms- of speech, religion, views. I have never known anything different, and I do take it for granted. It is important to have an awareness that our community do not have this automatic right- and have often been denied many of the rights that we take for granted. And the only difference is their birthplace.