A Salford community group has announced a new employability and English skills course for girls and women in Little Hulton.
The course, held by Speak and Belong CIC, is taking place at the Lowry Academy on Saturdays every two weeks and begins at the end of February.
The free course intends to help women and girls feel empowered through the English language, health and well-being and building confidence.
Founder and director of Speak and Belong CIC, Monika Sulowska, said: “My main intention is to empower women with English as an additional language to feel confident, heard, and able to participate fully in everyday life and in their local community.
“While language learning is at the heart of the course, the wider aim is to support women to develop confidence, independence, and a strong sense of belonging.”
The group was set up to help people of Salford build confidence and support refugees, asylum seekers and learners in UK schools whose first language is not English to thrive through practical skills.
The four-month course includes the discussion of different topics from family and relationships to health and lifestyle.
The course is delivered in an all-women and girls environment to help participants feel comfortable and more reassured.
Monika said: “Sessions are designed to be friendly, respectful, and non-judgmental, where women are encouraged to speak freely, make mistakes, and learn at their own pace.
“Activities are interactive and supportive, focusing on discussion, role play, and shared experiences, which helps build trust within the group.
“This safe space allows women to grow in confidence while supporting and encouraging one another.”
Founded in 2025, Speak and Belong also run low cost English classes, which can give participants the functional skills needed to create a CV and attend a job interview.
Monika said: “English plays a vital role in daily life in the UK, from speaking with teachers and healthcare professionals to engaging with employers and local services.
“Improving spoken English helps women communicate their needs, understand information, and advocate for themselves and their families.
“Many women want to be involved in their children’s education, access healthcare confidently, or take steps towards work or volunteering, but feel held back by their English.
“I wanted to create a course that addresses these challenges in a practical, compassionate way, while also recognising women’s strengths, experiences, and potential.”
Intending to help women and girls of Salford grow and feel confident in everyday life, the course allows sharing stories and reaching goals.
“Women will gain increased confidence, stronger spoken English skills, and the ability to express themselves more clearly in everyday situations. They will also gain friendships, peer support, and a stronger connection to their community.
“Ultimately, the course supports women to recognise their own voice, value their experiences, and believe in their ability to shape their future.”
To sign up for the course and to find out more, email speakandbelongcic@gmail.com or call 07922671325.
