Bridges Not Barriers: Standing in Solidarity with Refugees and Immigrants

At Bridges Not Barriers, we are a collective dedicated to fostering equity and equality through local activism and community engagement. Co-facilitated by a group of Trainee Clinical Psychologists based in Southampton and the surrounding areas, we are committed to building a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone.

This year has been particularly challenging for many, and we want to take a moment to express our unwavering support for refugees, immigrants, and all members of our diverse community.

We understand that people may also be experiencing anxiety in relation to the recent UK and US elections, where divisive political rhetoric and polarising campaign strategies have increasingly scapegoated immigrant communities and fuelled xenophobic narratives.

In our clinical work, we regularly engage with adults and children who have sought refuge in our country, having already endured the trauma of violence, conflict, and perilous journeys. Many of our patients grapple with severe anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a result of their experiences. Our role is to provide a safe, supportive environment for healing and recovery.

However, we have observed with great concern the detrimental impact that recent events and societal attitudes are having on our patients, carers, parents, and even our professional clinical colleagues in various services. The rise in racist rhetoric and violent incidents in our communities is not only deeply troubling but also directly undermines the therapeutic work we strive to accomplish. These actions—whether in public discourse or in our everyday interactions—inflict real harm on the mental health and well-being of those who are already vulnerable.

We want to emphasise in the strongest possible terms that the racism and violence we have witnessed in our communities is absolutely unacceptable. These actions do not represent our values, our profession, or the majority of our society. We stand united in our support of refugees, immigrants, and all members of our community, regardless of their background or origin.

As mental health professionals, we recognise the profound psychological harm caused by discrimination, fear, and social isolation. We also understand the critical importance of social support and community acceptance in the healing process for those who have experienced trauma. The more we stand together, the stronger our communities will be.

Our Pledge

We are committed to:

1. Continue providing compassionate, culturally sensitive care to all our patients, regardless of their background.

2. Advocate for the rights and well-being of refugees and immigrants within our professional capacity.

3. Actively work to combat racism and discrimination in our workplaces and communities.

4. Collaborate with community organisations to promote understanding, empathy, and social cohesion.

5. Support initiatives that provide education about the experiences of refugees and the value of diversity in our society.

To show our commitment through action, this December we will participate in a group walk to raise funds for Southampton Action, an incredible local charity supporting refugees, asylum seekers, and other vulnerable groups in the Southampton area.

________________________________________

Southampton Action: A Beacon of Support

Southampton Action was founded in 2015 by a group of local volunteers who started by collecting supplies for refugee camps in Europe. What began as a small effort has grown into a powerful movement, with a Facebook community of over 2,000 followers and a vital presence in Southampton and Northern France. The charity continues to offer support to refugees, asylum seekers, and individuals facing destitution in our region, advocating for their dignity and human rights every step of the way.

________________________________________

Our Plan: Walk with Us to Make a Difference

For our sponsored walk, we are challenging each participant to walk, hike, run, or climb at least 28 miles during the month of December—equivalent to a walk around Southampton! Your participation will not only raise funds for a cause that is close to our hearts but will also send a powerful message of solidarity and hope to those who need it most.

How You Can Help:

• Join the walk: Lace up your shoes and walk with us, raising awareness and funds along the way.

• Donate generously: If you are unable to participate in the walk, please consider donating to support Southampton Action’s vital work.

Together, we can make a meaningful impact. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference in the lives of refugees and immigrants who deserve to feel welcomed, safe, and supported in our communities.

Thank you for standing with us.