OUR STORIES

My name is Rabia and I have been in this country for over 20 years. Back home, I was a professional working woman and a journalist. When I came to the UK, I experienced a lot of physical and mental health issues and eventually ended up in hospital. I was there for a few weeks before returning home.

For two to three years afterwards, I spent most of my time at home and hardly left the house. I received all my support and services at home, but I became very isolated.

I was eventually referred to a number of local community organisations, but what I have experienced at Women’s Voices is different. I like coming here because everyone is treated equally. I have met women from many different backgrounds, and we share our stories, bond and build friendships. Some of these friendships have continued outside the centre, which has been particularly beneficial for me.

What I like about Women’s Voices is they help women move forward in life. There is a sense of discipline and structure here, but everyone is also kind and welcoming. I find the centre peaceful, and I am always learning new things. All activities, training programmes, events and social gathering for women makes us feel stronger and more powerful.

I feel very happy when I come here, and my mental health has improved so much. I look forward to coming to the centre and being around the other women. I have recommended Women’s Voices to my friends because I want them to experience the same sense of community and support that I have found here.

I first joined Women’s Voices as a service user because I was seeking asylum and needed support. At the time, I was feeling very isolated and depressed because of my circumstances and the uncertainty I was experiencing.

After joining Women’s Voices, I took part in a number of activities, events and training programmes. These helped me rebuild my confidence, reduce my isolation and meet other women who were experiencing similar circumstances. Being around other women and having a safe place where I could talk, learn and participate in activities made a big difference to me.

As my confidence grew, I wanted to give something back and volunteer with Women’s Voices. I was given the opportunity to volunteer and facilitate cooking sessions, as well as coordinate a drop-in service for women.

I was a chef in my country of origin, but after coming to the UK, I was not able to use my skills. Women’s Voices gave me the opportunity to use the transferable skills I already had and share them with other women. This helped me realise that my skills and experience were still valuable and that I had something to offer.

I have remained connected with Women’s Voices as a volunteer, and I also engage with other local organisations. I have benefited so much from Women’s Voices, and I have seen first-hand the difference the organisation makes to other women.

I see how happy women are when they come to the centre. For many of them, it is a safe space where they feel comfortable, supported and accepted, without fear of being judged. They can meet other women, build friendships, learn new skills and work on their personal development.

Women’s Voices supported me when I needed it most, helped me rebuild my confidence and gave me the opportunity to use my skills again. I am proud to have remained connected with the organisation and to now be able to support other women on their own journeys.