Downtown Community Ministry

Bulletin

9 May 2007
 
English tutors needed
 
Frustrated at being unable to read or write a handful of Downtown Community Ministry clients have asked for help to learn these basic skills.

 
Do you have a spare hour or two in your week to teach someone wanting to learn the skills that so many of us take for granted?

 
Community Social Worker Dougal Spier says that clients are generally uneasy about the classroom based environment of many language programmes.

 
“As grown men they’re easily embarrassed in front of others but would jump at the chance to have a one on one lesson. As they are now they face a total barrier to functioning in society. They want to be able to read their mail, know what the forms are they are asked to sign and confidently read the daily paper.”

 
Dougal says the lessons would be on a voluntary basis lasting for just an hour at the DCM offices. Any travel costs will be met by DCM.

 
“The tutor would need to possess skills in teaching adults, particularly English teaching and plenty of patience,” he says.

 
If you know anyone that might be interested or you yourself are please contact Dougal at DCM on 385 5605.
 
ENDS