Modern slavery conversation cafés: Something to talk about

Stevie Hope explores how conversation cafés are welcoming people and building community.

Have you ever gone to another country? If you’ve ever stayed in a land where they speak another language, you might have an idea of the challenges that arise: ‘Où sont les toilettes?’ ‘Wann kommt der Zug an?’

For many people in our communities, being immersed in the foreign language of English is an everyday reality.

‘We have found that many people settling into our community speak very little English,’ Captain Tim Stone (Northampton) shares. ‘That barrier can mean isolation, problems finding work experience or employment and, potentially, homelessness.

Northampton Corps responded by launching a conversation café. A conversation café is a place where people can practise everyday English, build confidence and connect with others.

‘It’s a welcoming, informal space where anyone can practise English conversation and work towards employability in a relaxed setting,’ Captain Tim explains. ‘It’s a supportive environment for people of all backgrounds and faiths. It’s already growing after being open just a few weeks!’

At Stepney Corps, Chatty Café was started to help welcome a family being sponsored through the government resettlement scheme. It has since become a safe space for anyone to learn conversational English and have a little fun.

‘Often, those who attend share stories of where they grew up and what it was like for them,’ shares Captain Vic Moye (Stepney and Poplar). ‘This can lead people to share deeply, which helps us all see things differently; the time spent together enriches all our lives!’

The challenge of not speaking English is especially relevant for victims and survivors of modern slavery in the UK; not knowing the language well can leave them unsure of their rights and vulnerable to further exploitation.

To help address this and support people engaging with conversation cafés as a ministry, The Salvation Army has partnered charity 2:19 Teach to Reach to create a new resource for conversation cafés that focuses on modern slavery. As an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) resource, it enables café leaders to explore human trafficking and modern slavery in a safe, practical and accessible way, while using story, discussion, role play and more to help learners recognise exploitation, practise asking for help and understand where support is available.

‘Stepney Salvation Army believes it’s essential to show compassion to all, treat individuals with dignity and affirm people’s worth,’ Vic explains, ‘especially after they’ve experienced hostile behaviour.

Tim sets out the vision for Northampton’s conversation café: ‘Fewer people falling through avoidable gaps, less duplication, and people supported by the community we are part of. For us, it began with a room, volunteers and a willingness to listen. Could you take that first step too?’