Bridging the Gap celebrates RFS17 with International Come Dine With Us event in the Gorbals
It was a day of delight for families and residents living in the Gorbals, as they came out to enjoy International Come Dine With Us on Friday afternoon. The event was organised by Bridging the Gap, a Glasgow based charity focused on building community, tackling anti-sectarianism and helping young people and families of different backgrounds in the local area.
The community inclusion led charity, brought together diverse families, service users and members to celebrate the occasion with delicacies prepared by individuals from various countries.
The centre runs a variety of projects to help people and young children in the local area. They hold drop-in sessions, offer advocacy and advice and provide a number of training courses. Project Development Worker Roz Adams said it is very rewarding, and a testament to the work run by the organisation, that so many service users go into related employment or college, using the skills they have acquired through their involvement in their projects.
“Bridging the Gap gives people a sense of belonging, a sense of contribution, a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives which creates a sense of connection to their community. People getting the opportunity to volunteer, people who can’t work or people seeking asylum are happy to support in any way they can” said Roz. As a result of the welcoming environment the centre offers, Roz believes that those who access the services are able to integrate more quickly into the community.
One service user said she felt very lonely before she started attending the drop-in sessions. Bridging the Gap has helped her feel like she belongs. Through her involvement in the baking project, she has developed a new skill and boosted her confidence.
Kye, a volunteer at the drop-in service said the centre is a place where individuals are able to get to know each other in a safe and welcoming environment, and that their volunteer-led activities help people develop their language skills. “The warmth people receive when they have not been to the centre in a while makes the place feel like a family”.
Kath Wallace who was also at the event said “Bridging the Gap is a place where ethnic groups and the locals of Gorbals meet and integrate.” She added “I like how everyone is mixed sitting together, chatting together whenever you visit”. “Pop in for cuppa” are her words to anyone feeling isolated within the area.
Blog by Jamilah A. Hassan
