The Ruth Hayman Trust

Ruth Hayman was a South African lawyer who fought for racial equality. She was put under house arrest for defending black people.

When she came to England, she started up English language classes for adults who came to live in England from other countries. When Ruth died in 1981 some teachers started a charity in her memory.

The Ruth Hayman Trust helps adults who are: over the age of 16, with a first language other than English, who live in Britain, but who can’t afford to study.

In 2013-14 the Trust helped 117 students from 39 countries to study courses such as medicine, English, computing, plumbing and interpreting.

Most of the money is for course and exam fees, however, some money may also be given for books or equipment (such as knives for cookery and scissors for hairdressing). Naima, who is from Somalia, got a qualification with a grant from the Trust. This meant she could get a place at university. She studied pharmacy and has now graduated successfully.

The Trust gives grants of up to £500. In 2013-14 the Trust gave away £20,494. Some people donate money to the trust because they support what we do. We also organise concerts, markets and food fairs to raise money.

You can help by organising a fund-raising event in your school or community. We always give a ‘thank you’ certificate to anyone who helps in any way they can.