Many of the torture survivors we work with are claiming asylum in the UK and are not allowed to work, struggling to live on an asylum allowance of £37.75 a week.
At Freedom from Torture, we provide one-to-one therapy, support groups such as gardening and music, and practical and legal support to people who have been tortured across the UK.
Torture is used to silence, humiliate and persecute. It is illegal and never justified but more common than you might think. And it can happen to anyone.
Patrick from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and ‘big brother’ Eddie from Gambia became good friends after meeting in their asylum accommodation and both attending therapy at Freedom from Torture.
It may sound surprising that something as little as a map can make a difference, but I’ve seen it be a turning point for many people who have survived torture.
Sometimes it is hard to believe the depths of human cruelty. Because of this cruelty, on occasion, we work with people where it can be hard to know if there will be “success”.
Last March, members of Write to Life performed their work at a fundraiser organised by the South London supporters’ group. Afterwards, a woman came up to us and introduced herself as Barbara Houseman. What we didn’t know then was that she was one of Britain’s top voice coaches.
Kayitesi writes: When I wrote this piece I felt as though I was talking to somebody, somebody friendly. Somebody who would understand. Writing this gave me courage, knowing that loneliness is not permanent; today you are lonely, tomorrow you are with family or friends.
After I had been tortured and had escaped to the UK, I felt more scared than ever. At times, it felt like being back in Sri Lanka, with my life in the hands of torturers. This is how being in Yarl’s Wood Detention Centre felt to me.
Ben is a Therapist at Freedom from Torture. Read to know more about what originally drew him to the role as well as the powerful techniques he employs to help survivors of torture to deal with their trauma.
The Home Affairs Select Committee has published its report on immigration detention. Freedom from Torture responds to the Home Office's "utter failure" to protect vulnerable people, highlighted in the report.
Patrick is a therapist with a background in social work and child mental health with the NHS. Since he retired, he volunteers with our Children, Young People and Families team.
