Sara's story - Why supporting survivors is crucial
Recent far-right riots in the UK have left many refugees and torture survivors feeling even more isolated and afraid. The very places where they sought safety now seem threatening, and the fear of racist attacks is an all-too-real daily concern.
For Sara, arriving in the UK five years ago should have marked the beginning of a new chapter – a chance to escape the persecution she faced in Iran. Instead, she found herself alone and vulnerable, struggling to survive in a place that was supposed to offer sanctuary.
"Being a refugee broke me," Sara recalls. "I was housed where I didn’t know anyone. I had no money, and that isolated me completely. I couldn’t even afford to get on the bus or buy sanitary towels."
But despite the fear and uncertainty, Sara found hope. With support from Freedom from Torture, she started therapy, which became a beacon of light - guiding her out of the darkness. Slowly, Sara began to rebuild her life, finding strength she didn't know she had.
"Because of people like you, I have a second chance at life," Sara shares. "I started to get my confidence back and eventually got accepted as a refugee, allowed to work. Today, I'm proud to work for the NHS and help people again. It’s who I am."
Sara's story is just one of many. Each week, we receive referrals from refugees who have fled unimaginable horrors, leaving everything behind. Sara describes the support provided by Freedom from Torture is a lifeline. But with donations falling, these vital services are at risk.
"Right now, Freedom from Torture has had to close new referral waiting lists for two of their UK centres," Sara warns. "Services are at genuine risk of being cut altogether. I cannot get across how serious this is."
Against this backdrop, your support has never been more important. By donating today, you can help ensure that survivors like Sara continue to receive the life-saving therapy. You can kickstart someone’s journey to recovery.
Over the past few years, life in the UK has been challenging for survivors like Sara. The recent rise in racist attacks makes the need for support even more urgent. Together, we can provide the hope and support they need to rebuild their lives.
