Languages of Swansea
Swansea is home to a diverse and friendly population, with many languages spoken in the home and community. Many local groups actively welcome and support asylum seekers looking to integrate and become a part of the community.
Where is Swansea?
Swansea is a city and a county; the beautiful coastal city of Swansea is located in south west Wales, which is part of the United Kingdom. Swansea is home to over 50 stunning beaches and features the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Gower Peninsula. Swansea is also half an hour from the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park – sometimes referred to as the Brecon Beacons.
What are the two main languages spoken in Swansea?
The two main languages spoken in Swansea are English and Welsh. English is the most common language spoken in Swansea. Some schools focus on delivering learning in English, and others in Welsh, yet both Welsh and English are taught in all schools.
What other languages are spoken in Swansea?
Five common languages spoken in Swansea, aside from English and Welsh, are:
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- Polish,
- Arabic,
- Bengali,
- Hindi, and
- Punjabi.
Many other languages are spoken in Swansea, including (and certainly not limited to) French, Spanish, Italian, Turkish, Kurdish, Greek, Ukrainian, Persian, Chinese, and Japanese.
Why is Swansea a safe place for speakers of different languages?
Swansea is considered a safe place for speakers of different languages, with a welcoming atmosphere for all. The city became the UK’s second City of Sanctuary in 2010 – the first in Wales to do so. As a City of Sanctuary, Swansea is committed to building a culture of hospitality and welcome, especially for refugees seeking sanctuary from war and persecution.
There are various community groups and resources available to help people integrate into the local community. Generally, Swansea has a welcoming attitude towards diversity.
How can Swansea Council help with English as an Additional Language (EAL)?
Swansea Council offers support for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners through their EAL service team, which provides advice and guidance to schools and families with language support needs.
If your child is attending school in Swansea and feel that you or your child need support in interpreting or translating related to their education, you should first speak directly with the school so they can make a referral to the service team.