Windrush Elders
Joycelyn Scarborough
Jocelyn Scarborough’s life is filled with dedication, and the enduring bonds of family. Born in Guyana, Jocelyn’s childhood was deeply rooted in family and tradition. Her father, a resourceful businessman, managed to support the family from abroad, sending for Jocelyn, her mother, her three brothers, four sisters, and two cousins to join him in England when she was about 11 or 12 years old.
Adjusting to life in a new country came with challenges, but Jocelyn’s family embraced the opportunities that England offered. Initially, life was modest. The family of ten shared limited living space, adapting to a single-room setup and an outdoor toilet. Despite these hardships, Jocelyn’s upbringing instilled a strong sense of respect and discipline, values reinforced through her schooling and family life. She recalls the strictness of her school in Guyana, where homework and respect for elders were non-negotiable, a contrast to the freedoms afforded to children today.
Education was a pivotal part of Jocelyn’s early years in England. She completed her schooling by the age of 16, the typical leaving age at the time. Soon after, she began carving out a life of her own, marrying her lifelong partner. Together, they navigated life’s many challenges, raising five children, four boys and a girl. Jocelyn recalls the sacrifices and joys of motherhood, particularly the sense of accomplishment in balancing family life while pursuing her professional goals.
In her early 20s, Jocelyn returned to education, attending college to pursue a career in nursing. She was among the youngest in her cohort and vividly remembers the pride of qualifying as a nurse. Her work in nursing, especially night shifts, allowed her to provide for her family while being present for her children during the day. Her dedication to both her profession and family reflects her tireless work ethic and commitment to nurturing others.
Life in England during Jocelyn’s early years was marked by racial discrimination, an experience shared by many from the Caribbean and other immigrant communities. She recalls the visible signs of prejudice, such as landlords refusing to rent to “coloured” people and the hardships of communal living in rented houses. Despite this, Jocelyn and her family persevered, carving out a stable life and finding solace in close-knit friendships, many of which endure to this day.
Jocelyn’s family expanded over the years, and she now boasts 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She takes pride in the fact that, despite the large family, she has not been heavily relied upon for childcare, allowing her to enjoy her later years.
Although Jocelyn briefly lived and worked in Tobago, where she managed award-winning accommodations, her heart always remained in England. Her travels to the Caribbean became less frequent over time, as her family roots in Britain deepened.
Reflecting on her journey, Jocelyn cherishes the connections she has maintained over the decades, particularly with friends she has known for over 60 years. Her story is one of strength, adaptability, and the enduring power of family, a testament to the sacrifices made by immigrant families and the rich legacies they have built.