About Us

We are more than just a community—we are a growing network of Romanian speakers in Ipswich and Suffolk, united by a shared culture, purpose, and the desire to thrive together. Ipswich Romanian Community (IRC) was born to bridge gaps, inspire connection, and represent our voice with pride.

Explore below to learn about our story, our mission, our values, our history, and the impact we’ve made.

Our Story

Ipswich Romanian Community is a non-profit, volunteer-led organisation that has been actively connecting the Romanian community in Ipswich with local authorities since 2020. Our mission is to promote unity, culture, and education — ensuring that Romanian heritage remains alive while supporting integration for all generations.

Together, we’ve proudly made a real impact in our community:

Offer free English classes (beginner, intermediate, and conversation) taught by native speakers since Nov 2022
Since 2022 - Organised the Great Union Day celebration (1st of December) and continuity
In 2023, successfully conducted a three-month session on self-awareness and development in collaboration with a Romanian psychologist.
2023 - 2024 Participated for the first time in a public exhibition featuring traditional Romanian costumes and cultural artefacts
Performed traditional Romanian folk dances at local festivals, events and various stages — with children, youth, and adults all wearing traditional dress since 2023
Delivered annual Christmas charity events for local families with children since 2023 and ensured its continuity.
Hosted the “Let’s Picnic Together” event on 1st June since 2023, celebrating continuity, childhood and community
2024, Facilitated in partnership with Romanian Embassy in London the first ever opening a local voting station for Romanians living in Ipswich and surrounding area. (Euro parliament Romanian elections in June 2024) This will have a constant continuity.
We brought over 70 Romanian books to Ipswich Central Library including 30 extra donations from members in different categories and for different group age
Launched the first-ever Romanian Film Festival in Ipswich in 2024
On 1st December 2024, we proudly lit up Ipswich Town Hall in the colours of the Romanian flag — a historical first
Provide support with integration, translation, cultural guidance, and much more.

If you believe, like us, that these actions help future generations stay connected to their cultural roots — support us to continue this meaningful work.

Our Mission

To empower Romanian-speaking individuals in Ipswich and Suffolk through education, cultural exchange, and community support.

We aim to build a welcoming environment where everyone speaking Romanian—regardless of origin—feels they belong and are valued. Through workshops, events, dance, English lessons, and more, we make inclusion active.

Our Manifesto

We believe every voice matters.
We believe diversity is strength.
We believe that cultural understanding leads to stronger, safer, and more united communities.
We stand for:

Inclusion without exception
Support without judgement
Unity beyond borders

Through every workshop, conversation, and event, we promote mutual respect, dignity, and the right to belong.

Our History

The inception of the Ipswich Romanian Community (IRC) started in 2020 due to pandemic challenges, when isolation, health difficulties, and lack of cultural support created an urgent need for community connection. What began as a grassroots Romanian-English initiative has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. The first English language and community engagement sessions took place in November 2021, with the vital support of Speak Ipswich, Ipswich Community Media, and The HIVE Ipswich. Since then, IRC has run dozens of creative and educational workshops, including festivals, partnered with prestigious organisations and local authorities, and supported hundreds of Romanian-speaking residents across Suffolk in rebuilding confidence, celebrating heritage, and staying connected.

Our Impact

Over the years, we've supported hundreds of individuals—from families and young people to elderly community members—through various projects focused on health, education, integration, and cultural expression.
We’ve collaborated with local councils, health services Romanian Embassy, police departments, and educational institutions to amplify the Romanian voice and support positive change.

Testimonials and real-life stories with

Ipswich Romanian Community

Be inspired by heartfelt testimonials and real-life stories from individuals who kindly shared their journeys with us — voices of those we’ve had the honour to support

Testimonials

Discover what our members and partners say about their experience.

From art workshops to health support, our community’s words reflect the heart of our mission.

"Thanks to IRC, I’ve gained confidence to speak English and help others."

"The events bring my children joy and help them connect with our culture."

"IRC gave me the support I needed when I felt most alone."

"Being part of the Ipswich Romanian Community gave me a true sense of belonging."

"Through the cultural events I’ve had the chance to attend and help organise with IRC, I feel transported back to Romania — surrounded by familiar traditions, language, and warmth. It soothes my longing for home and fills my heart with a deep sense of connection."

Case Studies

Explore real examples of how our work has made a difference in people’s lives. Each story highlights a challenge, an intervention, and the transformation that followed.

Case Study: From Street to Stability

Cătălin's Story

“There was a time in my life when I felt completely lost. I had no friends, no job, and I ended up living on the streets. Thanks to Romeo, who personally paid for a hotel room out of his own pocket, and the team at Ipswich Romanian Community, I received the support I needed. Today, I’m in a much better place and starting to rebuild my life.”

Case Study: Learning, Belonging, and Progress

D’s Story

"I first came across the events and activities of Ipswich Romanian Community and was especially drawn to the English classes designed for Romanian speakers. These sessions offered me a safe and welcoming space where I could attend with my child, and where I felt a true sense of community.

Thanks to these classes, I was able to boost my confidence and improve my English. This gave me the motivation and ability to register for formal ESOL courses and take further steps in developing my career.

I’m really grateful for the opportunities I found through IRC – they made a real difference in my journey."

Case Study: From Struggles to Support and Community

A’s Story

"There was a time when, as a single mother, I faced several challenges regarding my child’s documentation, especially in dealing with my former partner.

During that difficult period, I reached out to Ipswich Romanian Community and received the support I needed. But more than that, I found new friends and even had the chance to take part in a few community events.

Thank you for being there and for all the support."

Case Study: From Loneliness to Leadership

G's Story

“I joined this community back in 2021, feeling completely alone in a foreign country. What struck me most was the free and sincere help offered by IRC. I became a volunteer myself. When I needed support the most, IRC and Romeo were there. After five years of uncertainty, I finally received my settled status. I am deeply grateful.”

Case Study: From Isolation to Belonging

Rebeca’s Story

"There was a time when I felt completely lost and disconnected. As a single mother of two, I didn’t know how to access local services, especially housing support from the Council.

Thanks to Romeo from Ipswich Romanian Community, who guided me step by step in the Romanian language, provided English support and worked closely with local authorities, I was able to get temporary accommodation for me and my children.

Now, I’m waiting for a final decision on my settlement and hoping to move into a permanent home soon.

Thank you, Romeo, and the IRC team!"

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