A COMMUNITY group for Poles in Oxford is looking forward to its second Christmas – after celebrated its first anniversary.

Przestrzen, which means ‘space’, has 100 members, and was formed last year to provide a way for Eastern and Central European migrants to meet up, talk about life in Oxford and access support services.

The Cowley-based group is one of 16 projects run by mental health charity Oxfordshire Mind which tries to help residents’ quality of life by taking care of their emotional well being.

Poles are the largest group of more than 10,000 Eastern Europeans living in Oxfordshire, representing 1.5 per cent of the county’s 631,900 population.

Group organiser Anna Scigala, said: “We noticed there was a gap and there wasn’t enough services being provided for minority groups. This is a way to provide a space where people can get support and exchange information and experiences.”

The group invites organisations such as trade unions and local authorities to help members understand issues like benefits and pensions.

It also offers English classes, yoga sessions, career advice, help with CV writing, and a book and DVD exchange.

Member Agata Gorniak, 29, who came to England three years ago with her husband, Aleksander, 27, to find work, said: “I am really happy that we have got a Polish group in Oxford.

“I can meet other Poles, listen to Polish music, celebrate Polish culture and take part in courses.”

The group meets every Monday at 7pm, in St James Hall in Between Towns Road, Cowley, Oxford.

eallen@oxfordmail.co.uk