Refugee Voices - Amina

Amina is originally from Afghanistan and arrived in the UK two years ago. Life in her home country had once been stable, however everything changed when the Taliban returned to power. Her husband had been working for the military, which made the situation increasingly dangerous for their family. Shortly after the Taliban took control, he tragically passed away. His passing forced Amina and her children to flee their home in search of a safe place to live.

Arriving in the UK was a significant turning point in Amina’s life. She travelled while pregnant, uncertain and fearful about what her future might be. At the same time, her children were grieving the loss of their father, and she found it difficult to answer their questions while processing the loss herself. Adjusting to a new country, language, and culture while grieving was deeply challenging, particularly as she was navigating these changes without the support of her husband.

Life has gradually become more stable, though the trauma of her husband’s death continues to affect her. She has received medical support for night terrors she experienced due to her husband's death, which has helped her begin to cope with her experiences. Despite these challenges, she is grateful that her children are now safe and able to attend school. Additionally, speaking a new language and adjusting to a different life in a new country has taken time, but she continues to make steady progress.

Amina first connected with Herts Welcomes Refugees through her caseworker, who introduced her to the charity. Their support has helped her family rebuild their lives, including assisting her family with visas, providing English lessons, and helping her find schools for her children. When she first arrived she spoke almost no English, however, the lessons she has received has helped her become more independent while living in the UK.
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Today, Amina’s main focus is caring for her five children as she is determined to support them through their education and give them the stability they deserve. Although she misses her family in Afghanistan deeply, the loss she feels most profoundly is that of her husband. Despite this painful loss, she continues to focus on building a safer and more hopeful future for her children.