Story: Rohan Francis | Photo Miroslav Sandor
A new community development worker for Roma Slovak and Polish residents has been appointed to address the needs of local people.
The Messenger went to speak to the new recruit, Miroslav Sandor, at his base in the Pakistan Advice and Community Association (PACA).
A local resident of 9 years, Miroslav told us that he began volunteering some time ago. Since starting his new job on the 1st June, he has already worked with the Police, on the introduction of the Section 30 Order, with the Admissions Service, who deal with children missing from school and he organised the voluntary street cleaning, which currently operates 3 days a week.
He explained how he was helping the Roma Slovak and Polish residents who come to PACA for advice,
“They often have nothing when they come to the UK. I help by answering questions about the basics such as schools, sports, health sessions and housing.”
Miroslav pointed out some of the challenges faced by local people,
“There are very few jobs around. People need help to find good jobs. We have trained 8 Roma advocates who volunteer at PACA helping people, as language can be a barrier.”
In response to concerns raised in the last PACT meeting, (Partners And Communities Together), Miroslav told us,
“Some people have had a few problems and misunderstandings with the Roma, often because the new arrivals don’t understand about living in the UK and how they should do things. They are learning and want to fit in. We have set up volunteer street cleaning teams to sweep up everyone’s litter and make the place look better. They don't want to stay at home all the time. Voluntary work gives them experience to help them find a job. Attitudes are changing. If we work together and talk to each other it will be better.”
I asked Miroslav for his reaction to the recent Section 30 Order.
“I didn't know about previous Section 30 Orders because nobody told us. This time, we organised a meeting at PACA about the Order to explain what will happen, and to warn residents about the 9pm curfew. I think people feel safe now and agree that it's the right thing to do.”
Finally, I asked Miroslav what he would like to see improved locally,
“Roma people love music. I would like to get some funding for a community centre so the Roma, and everyone in Page Hall, can meet to make music. I would like to show the community what we can do! We have a space for meetings at PACA but would like to expand upstairs so we can get everyone together. We use another space for worship, but it's too small. I am talking to PACA about putting on cooking sessions, health activities and maybe opening a gym for the whole community.”
Miroslav Sandor can be contacted at PACA, 127 Page Hall Road, S4 8GU Tel: 261 9130