A SERIES of courses called Simply English has been set up to help deal with the difficulties faced by migrants coming to live and work in the area.

Weymouth International Language Link, an English foreign language school, is run by Jennie Parsons and Fran Davies.

Fran said: "Things that are so straightforward to us - registering with a doctor for example - causes problems for them as they need to be able to understand forms.

"This is the reason for calling our courses Simply English. They aim to deal with everyday English in the simplest form possible."

She added that they are established at Steps Club for Young People at 110 Chickerell Road and are about to start a fresh course.

Fran said: "We are an increasingly multi-cultural community, so have sent one letter explaining what we do to employers as well as a similar letter to social services, local councillors and other groups.

"We explain that people may have migrant staff who speak good English and we would be grateful if they could be informed of us and our letter so they can relay details about us to their community."

She added that the aim was to emphasise practical skills such as everyday learning and understanding, access to experienced teachers able to personally tailor sessions to the learner's particular requirements and the stimulation of conversation to improve learner communication with their work colleagues, the public and everyday activities.

Fran said they hoped to build on their confidence and capability to have a workable knowledge of English so they would feel able to become part of the community.

Places would also be offered, she said, to learners, students and or other international travellers not based in the area with accommodation provided by approved host families.

She said the aim of the whole structure was building employer confidence in the ability of international students to adjust to cultural changes and develop their employability.

This would also spotlight their willingness to work within the local area both now and in the future.

Anyone interested in more information about the Link or who is a qualified teacher of English as a foreign language can contact Fran on 07818 000326.