SOLACE Surviving Exile and Persecution

SOLACE Surviving Exile and Persecution is a registered nonprofit organization and charity based in Leeds, United Kingdom, dedicated to providing specialized mental health support to asylum seekers and refugees. The charity focuses on offering psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals who have survived persecution, exile, and severe trauma such as torture, rape, and the loss or disappearance of loved ones. Its work primarily serves the Yorkshire and Humber region, aiming to improve the wellbeing and mental health of vulnerable displaced populations[1][3].

History and Mission

Founded in 2006, SOLACE has developed significant expertise in addressing the complex psychological needs of refugees and asylum seekers. The charity is recognized as a leading specialist provider of therapeutic services for refugees in its region. Its mission revolves around helping individuals rebuild their lives by offering trauma-informed therapy and fostering pathways to recovery and resilience[3].

Services

SOLACE provides a range of mental health services including:

• Individual psychotherapy and counseling tailored to survivors of torture and persecution.
• Family and children’s therapy through a dedicated Child and Family Wellbeing Project.
• Interpreted therapy sessions to ensure accessibility for non-English speakers.
• Online therapy options via secure video platforms, enhancing access for clients unable to attend in person[3][4].

The charity also offers specialized training to other service providers, aiming to make regional services more inclusive and effective for refugees and asylum seekers.

UK Resettlement Scheme Support

SOLACE plays a key role in supporting refugees arriving through the UK Resettlement Scheme, including those resettled from Afghanistan and other conflict zones. The charity delivers tailored support to help these refugees manage the effects of trauma and the challenges of culture shock. Many of these individuals face acute vulnerabilities, including disability and a history of torture. SOLACE’s support services extend to entire families, supporting adults and children alike in their mental health recovery journey[4].

Impact and Funding

SOLACE continually evaluates its social impact, seeking to understand and improve the difference its services make in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers. The charity relies on donations and funding from various sources to sustain its work, providing care to hundreds of clients in the region[3].

Charity Status

SOLACE Surviving Exile and Persecution is registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales under the charity number 1104507. Its focus remains firmly on therapeutic support to survivors of exile and persecution in the UK[1].

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1104507&subid=0 [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/4008717/contact-information [3] https://www.solace-uk.org.uk [4] https://www.solace-uk.org.uk/projects-and-partners/uk-resettlement-scheme [5] https://www.solacewomensaid.org