A few words
About Us
Our Story
Talking English CIC is a community-focused organisation based in Liverpool, dedicated to helping refugees, immigrants, and newcomers build confidence, connection, and independence through English. We go beyond traditional classroom teaching by offering a warm, holistic learning experience that supports the whole person.
Our approach blends flipped-classroom learning, creative, real-world activities, and community integration. Learners practise English on Walk and Talk excursions, join museum visits, enrol at local libraries, have cooked and contributed to our recipe book ‘Deliciously Diverse’ a joint project with NHS Diabetes, and even contribute to our learner-led newspaper Our Voice. Every lesson is designed to reduce stress, build confidence, and make language learning a natural part of daily life.
We teach English in supportive spaces—including in gardens such as Brownlow Health Community Garden in L8 —where learners can grow through nature, creativity, and connection. Advanced learners develop leadership skills, helping them move towards work, volunteering, and further education.
At Talking English CIC, we believe that learning a language is about more than grammar and vocabulary. It’s about belonging, empowerment, and building a new life with confidence and community.
Who We are
Yvonne Bennett Director​
Catherine Higgins Director
Jacqueline Fisher Director
Yvonne Bennett is a Director of Talking English CIC & ESOL Tutor with a background in coaching, training, leadership development, and adult ESOL education. Passionate about empowering people through learning, she brings extensive experience in personal development, team building, and community engagement. Yvonne is committed to creating inclusive opportunities that help refugees, immigrants, and newcomers build confidence, improve their English skills, and become active members of their local communities.
Catherine Higgins is the founder and Managing Director of Catherine Higgins Law, a respected Liverpool-based legal practice specialising in conveyancing, private client services, and personal injury law. With over a decade of experience, she is known for her practical advice, client-focused approach, and commitment to helping individuals and families navigate important legal matters with confidence and clarity.
Jackie Fisher is the founder and Director of Jackie Fisher Limited, bringing extensive experience in business consultancy, financial management, and strategic planning. Based in Liverpool, she works with organisations to improve performance, strengthen financial controls, and support sustainable growth. Known for her practical, collaborative approach, Jackie helps businesses make informed decisions and achieve their long-term goals.
What we do
- Walk and Talk English excursions in Liverpool
- Museum visits and cultural integration activities
- Library enrolment and community access
- Deliciously Diverse - cookbook with NHS Diabetes
- Our Voice - learner lead newspaper
- Garden learning at Brownlow Health Community Garden
- Leadership pathways for advanced learners
- Routes into volunteering, work and further education
Our Mission
At Talking English CIC, our mission is to empower refugees, immigrants, and newcomers through accessible, practical, and compassionate English education that builds confidence, independence, and belonging.
We are committed to creating safe, inclusive learning experiences that go beyond language, helping people connect with their communities, access opportunities, and rebuild their lives with dignity. Through holistic teaching, real-world integration, creativity, and human connection, we support every learner in finding their voice and shaping their future.