Demos

The Think Tank for Everyday Democracy

The unkindest cut | TEFL | EducationGuardian.co.uk Writes: 'The government claims free Esol will still be available for people receiving means-tested or income-related benefits. In reality, very few people with Esol needs access these benefits, even if they are eligible. For example, only 3% of workers from EU accession states receive tax credits, although around 80% are earning between £4.50 and £5.99 an hour' 'government won't even accept proof through payslips...Instead a 20-page form must be completed - in English!' from : duncanoleary 17th July 2007
Comment is free: It doesn't make sense in any language Writes: 'if the provision to learn English isn't widely available and affordable, then paying for lessons, will inevitably be lower down the list of priorities than covering food and housing costs.' from : duncanoleary 17th July 2007
Comment is free: Mind the language Writes: 'Under the new arrangements, only those claiming income-related benefits can still access ESOL. Yet very few people with English language needs claim tax credits. Indeed, only 3% of workers from European Union Accession Countries who have signed up to the Worker Registration Scheme receive tax credits, even though four out of five earn less than £6 an hour and are therefore likely to be eligible. This is a classic Catch 22. Many of the most vulnerable will simply fall through the net.' from : duncanoleary 17th July 2007