From Hong Kong to …Trafford! Hundreds of families from the famous Far Eastern region have recently settled in Trafford and been given a very warm welcome by the Council.
The Council, led by the Inclusive Economy and Communities Team, hosted a hugely successful event to offer information, advice and support to our new residents from the other side of the world.
Estimates suggest that well over 800 people have recently settled in the Trafford area from Hong Kong. Trafford Council have been working closely with the Trafford Hongkongers CIC, a Community Interest Company, to look at the needs of the residents and to identify what advice and support can be offered to help them settle and feel part of the community.
An Employment support and Information session held at UA92 was a huge success with over 200 Hong Kong newcomers attending. Agencies that attended to offer advice and information along with Trafford Council included the National Careers Service, DA Languages, Trafford College, UA92 and the Growth Company.
A range of information was on offer focusing on transferring skills, support with CVs and interview skills and finding employment. Business start-up advice was also available through the Growth Company and Momentic.
Opening the event on behalf of the Council, Councillor Mike Freeman, Executive Member for Employment and Skills, said:
“We are proud that these residents have chosen Trafford as their new home and we will do everything we can as a Council to help them settle into their new surroundings, find employment and become a flourishing part of the diverse communities that make up Trafford today. We know as a Council that diversity has built and continues to build Trafford and we will continue to offer a warm welcome to all choosing to settle in this borough.”
Sarah Ryan, a freelance Business Adviser, said:
“The delegates I spoke with were truly inspiring, and I was kept very busy. Some wanted to start food retail or wholesale businesses to service their community, another Property Refurbishment, and another a Private Equity Investment Firm.
They were all signposted to Trafford support and resources, and the feedback and appreciation from the delegates and translators was humbling.”
A spokesperson for Trafford Hongkongers said:
"Trafford Hongkongers CIC are grateful for Trafford Council's ongoing support to Hongkonger newcomers regarding a wide range of issues, including child education, ESOL English courses, employment support and starting a business advice.
The Employment and Training Support Session today is a milestone. We believe that, with this support from the Council, Hong Kong newcomers can integrate into the Trafford community well, and contribute to build up an inclusive and cohesive Trafford community."
The Council will continue to work with Trafford Hongkongers CIC to promote local recruitment opportunities, prepare guidance for local employers on the working rights of the residents and provide ESOL provision to strengthen their English language skills in preparation for work.
Posted on Tuesday 23rd November 2021