Migrants Urge English Learning in UK Town to Foster Integration

In the Leicester district of North Evington, local migrants are expressing concerns about the declining use of the English language. They are calling on newcomers to prioritize learning English, which they believe is essential for successful integration into British society. Situated in the Midlands, North Evington has become a prominent settlement for migrants from Asia and Africa, where English is increasingly sidelined in daily interactions.

The high street reflects this shift, with shop signs predominantly in languages other than English. Businesses such as Dipika’s beauty salon, Shiv Shak’s Desi Sweet Centre, and Szechwan Spice line the streets, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry. Yet, according to the latest government census, a staggering 43% of North Evington’s 1,670 residents aged 16 and over speak little to no English.

A diverse community has developed in North Evington, with significant populations speaking a variety of languages including Arabic, Portuguese, and French, alongside West and East Asian languages. The area is home to two mosques and a Hindu temple, highlighting its multicultural character. However, many residents who have learned English find themselves frustrated with those who have not made the same effort.

Mohammed, a 50-year-old business owner who moved from Pakistan as a child, emphasizes the importance of English. He stated, “People come here and they only want to speak their native language… We must learn English first.” He believes that proficiency in English can significantly contribute to educational and career opportunities.

Similarly, Dev Mistri, a 21-year-old master’s student from India, has voiced his concerns. Having learned English prior to his arrival in North Evington, he remarked, “We are living in the UK, so we should speak English. It is an international language.” His observations at local venues indicate that many prefer communicating in their native tongues.

Despite the challenges, younger generations appear more inclined to learn English. A local resident, born and raised in North Evington, attributed the language barrier to older migrants who did not prioritize learning English when they arrived. He noted that modern resources, such as AI tools and online courses, make learning English more accessible.

Conservative councillor Sanjay Modhwadia highlighted the historical context of this issue, explaining that many older migrants worked in local clothing factories where English proficiency was not necessary. He expressed optimism for the future, suggesting that the younger population’s dedication to learning English could lead to a more linguistically integrated community in the coming years.

Nevertheless, the lack of educational resources remains a significant barrier. Cllr Modhwadia pointed out that while information about classes is available, it often reaches residents in English, limiting their effectiveness. This language gap is not confined to North Evington; similar trends have been observed in other areas across the UK.

Statistics reveal that outside North Evington, 28% of residents in Smethwick reported limited English proficiency, while nearly 27% in Elswick, Newcastle, and over 26% in Aldershot face similar challenges. The UK Statistics Authority recently reported that nearly a million people in England cannot speak English to a basic level, with the proportion of residents listing English as their main language declining from 92.3% in 2011 to 91.1% in 2021.

Dr. Mike Jones, a political scientist and migration expert, warned that a decline in English proficiency could exacerbate social divisions and burden public services. He stated, “English is the entry ticket to British life. When migrants don’t speak it, they end up stuck in low-paid jobs and cut off from the English-speaking majority.” He highlighted the pressures faced by schools and public services, which struggle to accommodate non-English speakers.

Political discourse surrounding language proficiency has intensified, with figures like Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp labeling the failure to learn English as unacceptable. He asserted that without a common language, communities risk segregation. Philp advocated for stricter visa requirements, stating that migrants should demonstrate English proficiency before being granted residency.

In response to these concerns, the Labour government has proposed increased English language requirements across all immigration routes, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasizing the need for dependents to demonstrate a basic understanding of English. This policy aims to facilitate integration, reduce the risk of exploitation, and ensure that newcomers can contribute positively to society.

As North Evington navigates its evolving linguistic landscape, the push for English proficiency underscores a broader conversation about integration, community cohesion, and the future of multiculturalism in the UK.