Hello!

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

My name is Vitalii Diakov and I'm taking part in the Dundee Kiltwalk in aid of Scottish Refugee Council.

I’ve decided to undertake this challenge because the work of Scottish Refugee Council is very close to me personally.

As someone with lived experience of displacement, I know how important it is to be met not simply with support, but with dignity, kindness, respect and a genuine sense of welcome when rebuilding your life in a new country.

This is also why I chose to become involved with Scottish Refugee Council. For the past three years, I have been proud to serve on its Board as a trustee, bringing my lived experience to the organisation and supporting its work for a fairer and more compassionate Scotland.

Recently, during teaching at a youth programme, the group of young people chose kindness, welcoming and respect among the values they wanted their group to represent. Their words stayed with me because these values also sit at the heart of why I support Scottish Refugee Council and why I am walking.

Scottish Refugee Council are a charity who help people rebuild their lives, advocate for fair and compassionate policies and offer vital advice and services to those who have had no option but to flee their homes from danger, conflict or persecution in search of safety, hope and dignity in Scotland.

Last year, Scottish Refugee Council supported 517 people facing homelessness and extreme poverty, helping them to access mental health services, get legal advice and find food and clothing.

Our contributions will ensure that they can continue to support people through all stages of the complex asylum process and stand up for their rights.

In the face of a political and media landscape that increasingly dehumanises refugees and migrants, the need for frontline services has never been greater – as is the need for solidarity from all sections of society.

This is why I would hugely appreciate it if you would consider donating to my page and supporting me to make a positive difference to the lives of people who need support right now.

Your donation – no matter how big or small – will support people seeking asylum as they rebuild their lives in Scotland.

Thank you so much for your support!

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.