Asian Friendship Centre
‘A
young man from Pakistan had limited English. He was laughed at in
school and was very lonely. Here the kids welcomed and helped him and
he’s developed skills and self confidence. His parents say it’s
because of this club.’
The after-school club described by a teacher at the Asian Friendship Centre, is just one of the ways in which the centre aims to improve community cohesion in Forest Gate, which has a very high proportion of ethnic minorities, particularly from South Asia. However, there are also high levels of poverty, unemployment and crime, with many feeling isolated from mainstream society.
‘We are a group of Christians looking to serve the community in tangible ways,’ says the Revd Tom Ward, the centre director. ‘We don’t emphasise the differences between us, but encourage our groups to look at what can bring us together.’
As a base for social gatherings and employment and educational support, the AFC is a vital resource. Computer training, English conversation classes, job training, children’s activities and events for women and the elderly, combine to make local people feel a welcome part of their community.
