Winnipeg

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Language Support

An overview of language training programs and supports available to help newcomers improve workplace language skills.

Sections

1. Language Support Services for Work and Employment

a. Employment-Focused English Language Training

Winnipeg offers several programs designed to improve English language skills specifically for the workplace. These programs help newcomers develop the language proficiency needed to secure and maintain employment.

  • Enhanced English Skills for Employment (EESE):

    • Description: This program, offered by organizations like Manitoba Start and Winnipeg English Language Assessment and Referral Centre (WELARC), focuses on workplace communication, resume writing, interview preparation, and understanding Canadian workplace culture.
    • Eligibility: Permanent residents, refugees, and some temporary residents.
    • Cost: Free for eligible participants.
    • How to Apply: Contact WELARC for an English language assessment and referral to the appropriate program.
    • Contact Information:
      • Website: WELARC
      • Phone: +1 204-943-5387

  • English at Work Programs:

    • Description: Some employers in Winnipeg partner with language training providers to offer on-site English classes for employees. These programs are tailored to the specific needs of the workplace.
    • Eligibility: Typically arranged through employers.
    • Cost: Often free for employees, as costs are covered by the employer.

b. Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

  • Description: LINC is a federally funded program that provides free English language training to newcomers. Some LINC classes in Winnipeg include employment-focused modules to help participants learn workplace-specific vocabulary and communication skills.
  • Eligibility: Permanent residents and refugees.
  • Cost: Free.
  • How to Apply: Register through WELARC for an assessment and placement.
  • Contact Information:

c. Sector-Specific Language Training

  • Description: These programs focus on language skills for specific industries, such as healthcare, construction, or customer service. They often include technical vocabulary and workplace scenarios.
  • Providers: Manitoba Start, Winnipeg School Division, and other local organizations.
  • Cost: Free for eligible participants.
  • How to Apply: Contact Manitoba Start or WELARC for referrals.

2. Interpreter and Translator Services

a. Employment-Related Interpretation Services

  • Description: For newcomers with limited English proficiency, interpreter services are available to assist with job interviews, workplace orientations, and employment-related meetings.
  • Providers:
    • Immigrant Centre Manitoba:
    • Language Access Interpreter Services (WRHA):
      • Provides interpretation for healthcare and employment-related needs.
      • Website: WRHA Language Access
      • Phone: +1 204-788-8585
  • Cost: Free or subsidized for eligible individuals.

b. Translation of Employment Documents

  • Description: Translation services are available for resumes, cover letters, certifications, and other employment-related documents.
  • Providers:
    • Immigrant Centre Manitoba: Offers document translation services.
    • Private Translation Agencies: Several private agencies in Winnipeg provide certified translations for a fee.
  • Cost: Fees vary depending on the document and provider. Subsidies may be available through settlement organizations.

3. Local Organizations Offering Employment-Related Language Support

a. Manitoba Start

  • Description: Manitoba Start is the first point of contact for newcomers seeking employment and language support. They provide career coaching, job matching, and referrals to language training programs.
  • Services:
    • Employment workshops.
    • Workplace communication training.
    • Referrals to language programs.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Contact Information:

b. Immigrant Centre Manitoba

  • Description: This organization offers a range of settlement services, including employment support and language training.
  • Services:
    • Resume and cover letter assistance.
    • Job search workshops.
    • Interpretation and translation services.
  • Cost: Free for eligible newcomers.
  • Contact Information:

c. Success Skills Centre

  • Description: Focuses on helping internationally trained professionals find employment in their fields. They offer language support tailored to professional settings.
  • Services:
    • Workplace communication training.
    • Networking opportunities.
  • Cost: Free for eligible participants.
  • Contact Information:

d. Winnipeg School Division - Adult EAL Programs

  • Description: Offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs for adults, including employment-focused courses.
  • Cost: Free or low-cost.
  • Contact Information:

4. Application Procedures

  • Step 1: Contact WELARC for an English language assessment. This is often the first step to accessing free language training programs in Winnipeg.
  • Step 2: Based on your assessment, WELARC will refer you to the appropriate program (e.g., LINC, EESE, or sector-specific training).
  • Step 3: For interpretation or translation services, contact the relevant organization directly (e.g., Immigrant Centre Manitoba or WRHA Language Access).

5. Important Considerations

  • Eligibility: Most free language support services are available only to permanent residents, refugees, and certain temporary residents. Canadian citizens and others may need to pay for private services.
  • Wait Times: Some programs, especially LINC and EESE, may have waitlists. Itโ€™s advisable to apply as early as possible.
  • Cultural Nuances: Understanding Canadian workplace culture is a key focus of many programs. Topics such as punctuality, teamwork, and communication styles are often covered.
  • Childcare: Some programs, like LINC, offer free childcare while participants attend classes. Inquire about this when applying.

6. Additional Resources

  • Employment Manitoba:

    • Provides job search assistance and referrals to language training.
    • Website: Employment Manitoba
    • Phone: +1 204-945-0575

  • New Journey Housing:

    • Offers workshops on financial literacy and employment, with language support as needed.
    • Website: New Journey Housing
    • Phone: +1 204-942-2238

By leveraging these resources, newcomers to Winnipeg can access the language support they need to succeed in the workplace. If you have further questions or need assistance with a specific service, feel free to ask!