Sadya, 24, was subject to horrific torture in Sudan where she was an activist campaigning against human rights abuses.

Sadya had been particularly vocal in investigating rape and violence against women by government forces. On arrival in the UK she was in poor physical shape, and although she had accessed primary care services, doctors had been unable to take a full history or treat her appropriately. She was deeply traumatised and unable to communicate her history. Her claim for asylum was refused and her appeal dismissed.

Following our assessment, Sadya was accepted for ongoing therapy. We raised health issues with her GP and she has since had a number of investigations and treatment for temporal lobe epilepsy and severe musculoskeletal damage.

Sadya has been diagnosed with severe post-traumatic stress disorder. She struggled to cope with disruptive Home Office accommodation, and through our advocacy she is now being supported by social services. When she came to us, Sadya was dissatisfied with her legal representation. We helped secure a new representative and provided medical reports which have together have secured a reconsideration hearing.

Over the past year, Sadya has engaged in therapeutic work and is beginning to articulate her experiences of torture. She is engaging in community activities and slowly building friendships in London. She is committed to continuing to spread the word about crimes against women in Sudan.

Sadya is integrating her past torture into her future, with a commitment to prevent violations of human rights. Her journey to recovery has begun and she is keen to continue treatment with us.