Story
<p>Many thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p>
<p>Firstly I'd like to tell you a little about the Charity I am supporting .</p>
<p>Most of us can hardly bear to think about torture but there are survivors of torture in our society that are haunted by their experiences.</p>
<p>Freedom from Torture is the only organisation in the UK dedicated solely to the treatment of torture survivors. It provides medical and social care, psychological and physical therapy to help survivors rebuild their shattered lives.The charity aims to educate the public and decision makers about torture and its consequences to achieve long term changes in the lives of survivors and to ensure that the UK honours its international obligations. Its work frequently involves the documentation of torture to support asylum appeals to help obtain the sanctury that survivors are entitled to and to remove the uncertainty and possible threat of return to the state where the torture was inflicted.</p>
<p>Since it set up in 1985 some 50 000 people have been referred for treatment. In 2009 there were referals from over 60 countries with Iran, Iraq, Sri Lanka, Afganistan, Democratic Republic of Congo , Cameroon, Eritrea and Zimbabwe accounting for the majority.The current client base comprises individuals (both adults and children), as well as entire families.</p>
<p>It operates from a London Head Quarters with regional offices in Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester and Birmingham.</p>
<p>To find out more about the charity and understand some of the difficulties individuals face in rebuilding their lives after torture visit <a href="http://www.freedomfromtorture.org/">www.freedomfromtorture.org</a>.</p>
<p>Secondly, I need to tell you what I propose to do to raise money .</p>
<p>From the 17th to the 20th of October, I intend to walk the St.Cuthbert's Way, a walk which is around 60 miles long. The route starts in Melrose and runs through the beautiful scenery of the Scottish Borders and Northumberland to finish in Lindisfare. The route includes the Eildon Hills, part of the Tweed Valley, the Cheviots.</p>
<p>Thirdly, what will the money raised be used for ?</p>
<p>Owing to the fact that the charity chooses to remain independent as part of its work is to undertake the advocacy of survivors, it survives largely on donations from individuals. Funds raised will be used in the every day operations of running the charity and administering its services.</p>
<p>What is my interest in all this?</p>
<p>I have always had an interest in human rights and am currently involved with the running of the Edinburgh Local Supporters Group that aims to raise both awareness and money, as well as campaigning on related issues. The group's email address is <a href="mailto:MFEdinburgh@hotmail.com">MFEdinburgh@hotmail.com</a> should you want to make contact.</p>
<p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p>
<p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>
<p>Many thanks,</p>
<p>Nigel</p>