Language has been identified as one of the major barriers which inhibit the Chinese community from integrating with the wider society. Many of the first generation Chinese who came to Northern Ireland were able to gain only a few years of primary education in Hong Kong and as such when they arrived in Northern Ireland most were illiterate in their own language. It is therefore very difficult in a new country to approach a formal institutional building and even more difficult when there to be presented with grammar based English teaching.

Even Individuals who have moved here in more recent years, particularly those who are employed in the catering business, have had little opportunity or incentive to learn English. In these situations, Chinese is spoken in the family home at all times. Very often when a young person starts school this may be the first time they will speak English.

This barrier also generates difficulties in obtaining equitable access to health, social services, welfare, housing and Training opportunities in areas of economic activity. Language has in many ways compounded the problem of isolation experienced by many in the Chinese Community, especially Chinese women. Strict immigration laws many Chinese couples have no extended family. If they live in a rural area they may well be the only Chinese family. Without the support of relatives or friends and unable to establish social networks through the connections of families, Churches or employment life can become very difficult and lonely.