Mapping the demographics of migrant workers in the Goole area

Aims

To identify the composition of migrant workers in Goole, how well council services had responded and any issues of integration.

Methodology

The report is based on analysis of similar studies in the region, discussion, interviews and a questionnaire with service providers, data provided by ESOL providers and a survey of 27 migrant workers.

Key issues

The report provides findings from service providers on services offered and changes to services in response to migrant worker needs; on migrant workers’ experiences; and on perceptions of migrant workers among enforcement agencies. Most services do not target migrant workers. Library services and the leisure centre are popular services with migrant workers. Most work in manufacturing and arrive in summer. Perceived tensions may be higher than actual level of tension, fuelled by negative press.

Conclusions

There is a lack of data and no way of knowing the number of migrant workers in Goole and East Riding. Although most are likely to be working in Goole there are some in other localities across East Riding.

Recommendations

Recommendations are aimed at local services, partner organisations, and local authorities and relate to collection of demographic data, developing a welcome pack, translation services, improving links with employers and across services, and support for social groups.