GERARD LOBO
LONDON
Many Goans who recently moved to the UK in search of a better future could never have imagined that their initial struggle to adapt to a new country would now continue with several other unexpected challenges.
Not only do they have to protect themselves from a dreaded virus which has severely hit the country, many Goan families have to cope with unemployment, financial hardships and an uncertain future in their adopted country.
“Coronavirus has claimed the lives of about 10 Goans in the UK, while some are seriously ill, leaving their families in distress. Thankfully, a lot more have recovered and discharged from hospitals,” said Jose Mendes, a community worker in Southall-London.
“Most people are in self-isolation and this has affected the income of many Goan families, as most are on zero-hour contracts, small businesses and warehouses.”
“Those Goans undergoing hardships during these difficult times are trying to get financial and burial support from Goan organisations like GOA, GWS and GCA (E).”
“Since churches are closed, families in Southall have been following online Masses by the local parish church and Konkani Masses live-streamed from Goa,” added Mendes.
Bella Fernandes, who has been in the UK for 35 years and presently works from home in Enfield-London, expressed sadness hear that coronavirus has affected several Goan families.
“Many Goans have lost their jobs as most are on zero contract, putting considerable pressure on families, especially those with young children. Both parents losing income without notice is something nobody anticipates, but has become reality with the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“Families are going hungry and struggle to pay rent to keep a roof over their head. Some are thrown out of their shared accommodation as landlords fears they might carry the virus and spread to others in the house.”
Fernandes said the benefit to children receiving free meals at school is lost, adding pressure on Goan parents to feed their kids at home while schools are closed.”
“Food banks have been opened by some Goan organisations to help needy Goans. Some Goan organisations are also helping bereaved and sick Goans with financial help.”
Fernandes said some families want to return to Goa amid fears they are at higher risk of catching the virus in the UK, but added that suspension of flights has made it impossible for them to leave the country.
“A few, unfortunately, caught the virus and passed away. There is a lot of anxiety among Goans uncertain about their future as it will take a long time for things to get back to normal. This is a confusing time for Goans in the UK.”
She added that some Goans are scared to confide that they might have the virus for fear of being pushed away by society.
“The only comfort some Goans have is that some companies have furloughed their staff, but they will be paid 80% of their wages. This UK government’s support will help some Goans who have permanent jobs.”
Claiming that many Goans were still calm despite these challenging times, Fernandes hoped the lockdown would not break Goan families under financial pressure.
Francisco Xavier Dias, employed with a catering company and residing at Hounslow-London, felt there has not been much of an impact on people of Goan origin in the UK, adding that the lockdown would offer different opportunities to Goans.
“Goans are affected mainly because they are jobless as many companies have stopped operations due to the lockdown. Some who have recently come to the UK will suffer since they will be working under an agency and will have to sit at home.”
“With the lockdown, I feel people can give time for their families. They learn many things like cookery, craft and practice at home, something which they were not able to do before,” said Dias.
