Iranian Association

Iranian Association was established as a registered charity in 1985; the association was initially called West London Iranian Association. In 1980s, the association offered information and advice on education, welfare, housing and immigration; the advisory service continued into 1990s and the 21^stcentury. During 1980s, IA also made arrangements with a number of housing associations to manage short-term accommodations. Furthermore, the centre organised cultural activities and Saturday classes for children. In response to the need for basic skills courses for adults, Iranian Association started offering its first structured training programme in 1990; the courses were supported by Hammersmith & Fulham Local Authority for 20 years to help the students improve their English language, Information and Communication Technology and Job Search skills.  In mid 1990s, the centre started an 11-year Franchise agreement with Hammersmith and West London to offer ESOL and ICT courses. In the same period, Iranian Association contributed to the development of a European media project that involved Ealing and Hammersmith local authorities and a number of agencies from several European countries; the association offered training in journalism and desktop publishing as part of the transnational programme.

During 1990s, Iranian Association ran a successful three year day-centre for older people; the project provided an opportunity for the clients to befriend, improve their well-being and receive advice.  The wide range of services of the association also included business planning support to the clients who wanted to start their own businesses. In late 1990s, Iranian Association was supported by National Lottery to provide City & Guilds Literacy and Numeracy courses