When the lockdown hit us we were creative and adventurous in stepping out with a new Telephone Befriending Service which would include English Classes and Conversation on the phone. Untested and untried before it was a risky venture but with wonderful and willing volunteers like Ileanna we were in good hands to do our very best for our participants. 

"When lockdown started, I found myself looking for volunteering opportunities. I am a CELTA trained teacher, so I thought that being a ‘Remote English Teacher’ would be a great way for me to do something I really enjoy whilst helping someone at the same time."

"Teaching English over the phone was challenging at the start, it took a few sessions for me and the participant to get used to. However, over time I have managed to build up a good relationship with him. We focus on his learning needs and the social aspects of living in the UK, calling once a week."

I thought that remote English Teacher would be a great way for me to do something I really enjoy, whilst helping someone at the same time!

"I look forward to our calls together. I believe one of the reasons we get on so well is that we share the bond of both having left our home countries to come to the UK. I receive lots of continual support from the team at RR and it’s working very well for me."