The Testimony Project provides a voice for refugee women and the organisations that support them.
FAQs
FAQs
Why is it called The Testimony Project?
Giving testimony is giving voice. The Testimony Project is committed to giving voice to those who would otherwise not be heard.
What is the long term vision for the project?
The Testimony Project is about telling the stories that need to be told: speaking out about asylum in the UK. The website acts to draw attention, provide signposting, deliver resources and enable connections to be made, while a series of events will provide ongoing opportunities to make sure our voices are heard.
Is this just a website?
No – the project will utilise the reach of the Internet to connect a community, providing support, information, signposting, resources, awareness, and a opportunity to meet and come together. Central is the idea of giving voice, of speaking out, of telling the stories that need to be told. The project's primary focus is to capture and communicate these stories in creative, compelling ways.
Do asylum seeking women have access to the Internet?
Yes, and no. One of the very real problems facing asylum seekers and other refugees is that, financially, they are unable to easily access services that others take for granted. The Internet is one of these services. However, in the absence of alternatives, the Internet remains a powerful and effective form of communication and distribution. In terms of reach, it is most effective in delivering information to those who do have access – and from there, information can be distributed peer-to-peer or via RCOs.
Why is it just focussed on the women?
Women constitute the minority of asylum seekers, but are by far the most vulnerable. A high proportion have a child or children, and at least 50% have been raped before fleeing their persecutors. Women also tend to be less able to find work in the UK, and thus are more prone to deprivation. The Testimony Project has thus made a strategic decision to focus on women as the primary audience. However, the core content, legal information and signposting is of equal relevance to male asylum seekers, and it is envisaged that this will become a strong secondary audience.
How can I help?
Tell your story;
If you have a story to tell, The Testimony Project is here to tell it.
Ask questions:
What do you need to know? Use the forum to find out.
Become a partner:
Let us know about your events. We'll post the details.
Raise awareness:
Tell people about the project; get them to log on.
