Georgia Lote talks about a recent survey in more detail to reveal how Polish immigrants have made Cornwall their home
Marcel has called Falmouth home since he was six years old, but even after nearly two decades, he sometimes feels like an outsider. Now 24 and working as a manager at McDonald’s, he talks about the unique experience of growing up Polish in Cornwall. “I feel both Polish and Cornish, but not fully either,” he said. “It’s complicated. People are kind, but I’ve always had to explain my culture to fit in.”
When it came to the community, opinions from the survey were mixed. About 60% of respondents said they felt immediately welcomed by the friendliness of locals. Words like “kind” and “polite” were common, but several participants noted that building deeper relationships took time. One respondent wrote, “It’s easy to exchange greetings, but making close friends is harder, especially if your English isn’t perfect.”
Despite these challenges, the majority of survey participants reflected positively on their early impressions, emphasising the region’s charm and unique character. Cornwall’s slower pace of life and natural beauty left a lasting impact on most respondents, even if cultural differences required some adjustment.
For Anna, who works at a pub in Falmouth, her job has helped her build relationships with locals. “People here love learning about Poland—they always ask about traditions like Wigilia or Polish food,” she said. “I even taught one of my coworkers how to make pierogi.”
Food plays a central role in preserving Polish identity, with 75% of respondents saying they regularly cook traditional Polish dishes. Recipes for pierogi, bigos, and sernik (cheesecake) are passed down through generations and shared among friends in Cornwall. Some respondents even mentioned teaching their Cornish neighbours and friends how to make these dishes, helping to bridge cultural divides.
Despite their efforts, a few respondents said it can be challenging to access certain ingredients in Cornwall, which sometimes requires creativity or trips to Truro. Still, the dedication to maintaining Polish customs is strong, with many expressing pride in balancing their Polish heritage with life in the UK.
Survey results reveal that preserving cultural traditions is a significant part of life for Polish immigrants in Cornwall. An overwhelming 85% of respondents said they continue to celebrate Polish holidays and customs, even after years of living in the UK.
The most commonly mentioned traditions were those tied to major religious and cultural events, such as Christmas Eve (Wigilia) and Easter. Respondents emphasised the importance of Wigilia, describing it as an opportunity to come together as a family, share traditional dishes like pierogi and borscht, and honour long-standing customs like leaving an empty seat at the table for an unexpected guest.
Easter traditions were also highlighted, with many mentioning the preparation of Easter baskets (święconka) and their joy in participating in church blessings. One respondent noted that maintaining these rituals helps them stay connected to their heritage and pass their culture on to their children.
Language barriers are one of the most significant challenges Polish immigrants face when entering the Cornish workforce, as highlighted by both survey results and personal stories. Marcel recalls his early struggles to adapt to a new language. “When I started school, I didn’t understand a word of English. It was overwhelming. I felt very lonely in the classroom and on the playground,” he shared.
For adults, the survey revealed that learning English is often tied to workplace success. About 40% of respondents identified language as a key hurdle, particularly in jobs that require frequent customer interaction, such as retail or hospitality. One respondent noted that while employers are generally patient, coworkers are often the main source of support when navigating the language gap. “At work, I rely on Polish colleagues to explain things, but it means I don’t get to practice English as much,” they explained.
Despite these challenges, many immigrants expressed a strong desire to improve their English. Respondents shared stories of attending evening language classes, practicing through apps, or learning on the job. Those who have overcome the barrier described the benefits, including greater confidence, improved job prospects, and stronger connections with coworkers.
However, the struggle doesn’t end with language. Approximately 25% of survey participants expressed frustration with being undervalued or overlooked at work, citing stereotyping and limited opportunities for advancement. As one respondent put it, “Even when my English improved, I felt like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself.”
For many Polish workers, the drive to succeed outweighs these obstacles. The survey showed that while language is an ongoing challenge, it hasn’t stopped the majority from finding stable employment and building a better life in Cornwall.
The survey results reveal that work is a central reason why many Polish immigrants choose to settle in Cornwall, with 80% of respondents citing job opportunities as their primary motivation for moving to the region. The most common industries represented include hospitality, agriculture, manufacturing, and retail.
Respondents frequently highlighted the abundance of entry-level positions, with many noting that the demand for workers in Cornwall made finding employment relatively easy upon arrival. However, these roles are often physically demanding or involve unsociable hours. Several respondents shared that while they appreciate the stability their jobs provide, opportunities for career progression can feel limited.
The experiences of Polish immigrants in Cornwall reveal a community navigating the challenges of cultural adaptation while preserving their heritage. Survey responses highlight both the opportunities and struggles faced by individuals striving to build lives in a region far from their homeland. While many are drawn to Cornwall by work, the reality of life here includes language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and occasional isolation. Yet, it also offers a sense of stability, natural beauty, and new beginnings.
From continuing cherished traditions like Wigilia and Easter to overcoming workplace language challenges, Polish immigrants are finding ways to bridge two worlds. These stories underline the resilience and determination of a community that values hard work, family, and cultural identity.
As Cornwall becomes increasingly multicultural, the need for understanding and inclusion is ever more pressing. Initiatives to foster community connections, provide language support, and celebrate diverse traditions can ensure that immigrants feel not only welcome but truly part of Cornwall’s fabric.
The story of Polish immigrants in Falmouth and beyond is one of adaptation, perseverance, and hope. As they continue to navigate their unique journeys, they enrich Cornwall’s culture and remind us of the strength found in diversity.