Meeting the needs of torture survivors in the United Kingdom conference

International legal practice Allen & Overy LLP hosted a one-day Conference organised by The Redress Trust (REDRESS), Meeting the Needs of Torture Survivors in the United Kingdom. The Conference was called to mark the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture which takes place on 26 June each year. On that day organisations around the world draw attention to the plight of torture survivors and the scourge of torture.

The Conference brought together around eighty experts from a range of organisations and service providers, including Sir Nigel Rodley KBE, member of the UN Human Rights Committee, Neil Gerrard MP and Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP.

The Conference drew attention to the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers who have been tortured, and strategised about ways to overcome such problems and to best meet survivors’ needs.

“Many persons coming to the UK as asylum seekers have suffered the most horrific torture abroad. In addition to being granted refuge they have manifold requirements including rehabilitation and access to justice,” said Carla Ferstman, REDRESS’ Director. “It is important for service providers, refugee agencies, doctors and lawyers to work more closely together to improve the chances of such torture survivors being able to begin rebuilding their lives.”

A full Conference Report is available in 2009 Publications.