Empowering Futures Across the South West
We’re proud to launch a new suite of free support programmes across the South West, funded by South West Councils and delivered by the Devon Ukrainian Association in partnership with trusted St Sidwell Community Centre and Ukrainian Business Club.
Whether you're looking to:
-
Improve your English for the workplace (ESOL),
-
Strengthen your emotional wellbeing (Living Life to the Full), or
-
Start or grow your own business (Business Start-Up Programme) —
there is something here for you.
Available Programmes
Business Start-Up Support Programme
Turn your idea into action. Build your business with confidence.
This intensive, hands-on programme supports Ukrainians who are interested in self-employment or launching a small business in the South West.
You’ll receive:
-
Business skills workshops tailored to newcomers
-
One-to-one mentoring and individual guidance
-
Opportunities to join pop-ups, local markets, and promotional events
-
Support with business planning, budgeting, marketing, and crowdfunding
Open to participants living in:
Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Plymouth, Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Swindon, Torbay, and Wiltshire.
Apply by: 27 May, 23:59.
ESOL for Employment
Boost your confidence and communication in the workplace.
This 10-week English course is designed specifically to help you succeed in the UK job market.
Led by experienced tutor Liz from St. Sidwell’s Community Centre, the course includes:
-
Understanding UK workplace culture
-
Roles, responsibilities, and employment rights
-
Health & safety, teamwork, and communication
-
Job interviews, CV writing, and digital tools
Classes are flexible (in-person and online), with translation support where needed. Ideal for those actively seeking work or thinking about a new career path.
Starts June 2025, available across Devon and other South West areas.
Living Life to the Full (LLTTF)
Mental wellbeing and practical tools to manage everyday challenges.
This 6-week course is based on a proven cognitive-behavioural approach that’s been translated and adapted for Ukrainians.
Taught by trained facilitators in your language, LLTTF helps you:
-
Understand and manage stress and anxiety
-
Build confidence and emotional resilience
-
Improve sleep, motivation, and communication
-
Feel more in control of your life again
This course has already helped many Ukrainian women and families reconnect with hope and strength. Groups are warm, friendly, and supportive — and we welcome anyone over 18.
New groups forming now across Devon and online. Application open soon.
Any questions?
All programmes are free of charge and open to Ukrainian nationals living in the South West under the Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme, or Extension Scheme. Priority will be given to those actively seeking employment, self-employment, or better integration.
Questions? Contact us at welcome@dua.org.uk.