ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the stories of Polish migrant women about complex encounters with difference in various sites in Manchester, Barcelona and beyond, including the neighbourhoods, streets, educational facilities, family spaces and places of worship. The first part focuses on the narratives of living in Manchester and the wider area of Greater Manchester. The second part concentrates on the accounts of living in Barcelona and beyond. The final section illustrates various examples of motherly conviviality in nurseries, schools and children centres, outdoor spaces, as well as the homes, where my participants interact with other mother from different backgrounds. While initially some encounters are marked by tensions, avoidance and stereotypical views, there is a potential for more meaningful forms of interaction to emerge as a result of familiarity, habitual encounters and interaction over a longer period of time. The accounts also raise the importance of often underestimated fleeting but habitual encounters, including greetings and acknowledging each other, casual conversations and neighbourly help which often forms part of everyday convivial culture.
