Historical Background

The Call of the 'Mother Country'
Over the centuries people from many countries have settled in Britain and contributed immensely to its history, prosperity, scientific and artistic achievements and cultural diversity. Following the end of World War II, because of labour shortages in some industries many young men and women were encouraged to seek new employment opportunities far from home. Britain had called on her subjects around the world to contribute to the war effort, and now was recruiting young men and women from the ex-colonies to help build the peace. Labour vouchers, professional training packages and other incentives were on offer, so that people who felt constrained by the shortage of opportunities available to them at home, took the chance to explore pastures new.

Labour voucher issued to immigrants to the UK - 1962

In most cases people expected to come to Britain for five years or less. Once they had generated enough money to improve the home situation, they planned to return and settle. However, although wages in general were usually higher in Britain than at home, immigrants often had to accept lower paid jobs, well below their real skill levels, on account of the prevailing racial prejudice. Living costs were higher too, so few people managed to save enough to return home in style and live there comfortably and permanently as they had anticipated.

New relationships provided another reason why many remained. The young men and women who came from the Caribbean, India and Africa in the post-war years sought the companionship of people from their home countries, often marrying people they met in Britain. Others were lonely and sent for girlfriends and wives from back home. Those who were already parents wished to improve their children's educational opportunities by having them grow up in Britain, and so saved and worked all hours so they could afford to bring the whole family here.

Many of these first generation immigrants have had to come to terms with their children associating closely with a host culture which is entirely different from, and in many ways threatening to their own. This shift in culture, and the underlying attitudes, has been further marked in the next generation, so the communication rift between grandparents and grandchildren is sometimes extreme. Many have not experienced the respectful treatment they expected and hoped for as elders. But most have adapted to life in Britain and made good lives over here, with family, friends, religious institutions and community centres to support them.

Elders Seeking Refuge
For some elders who arrived in Britain in the last quarter of the century as refugees fleeing civil wars and political upheaval in their own countries, life in Britain has been a tremendous struggle. Many such migrants have come to Britain later in their lives, when it is more difficult to adapt, and language skills are harder to acquire. For this reason, it is even more vital for these elders to be in touch with others who share similar backgrounds and languages.

Coming to Terms
Taking stock of their lives, as people often do in later years, throws up many conflicting feelings about the decisions they have made and the consequences reaped. This is particularly so for ethnic minority elders whose journeys have taken them so far from their starting point. Undertaking reminiscence in groups amongst people with similar or related experience can be a very helpful way of coming to terms with these feelings, as well as a way of providing mutual support and understanding. It can help to create a 'community of experience' with others who have made similar life journeys, so that people come to see their lives in a broader historical and social context.

Dorothy Applethwaite - one of many Caribbean NHS workers

A Cultural Legacy
Many elders who have been reflecting on the changes they have lived through, now wish to pass on the history and culture of their country of origin to the younger members of their families and communities. They can serve as 'time-witnesses' for their grandchildren and their friends, giving them a sense of their special heritage. We very much hope that the suggestions for inter-generational activities will help them to continue this important task of bearing witness, and preserving and transmitting their cultural heritage.

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© Age Exchange 2006