Together we heal
A story of hope for change
There is a particular kind of invisibility that is hard to name. It is the invisibility of being present in a community, in a system and still not being seen.
Specifically trying to understand why women from African, Caribbean, and South Asian backgrounds, women who are already carrying the weight of addiction, trauma, patriarchy, abuse, and violence, so often cannot find themselves reflected in the spaces that are supposed to help and support them.
This evaluation report shares the story, impact, and learning from the Together We Heal and Recover project – a creative, community‑led initiative based at The Barn at Easington. Funded through the North East Mayor’s Opportunity Fund and delivered in partnership with Sangini and the North East of England African & Caribbean Association, the project set out to address the invisibility of Black and minoritised women in recovery and wellbeing settings.
“The first time I have felt completely safe at an event since coming to England” (Participant, The Old Oak event)
“Together We Heal and Recover”
Together We Heal and Recover – Evaluation Report
This evaluation report shares the story, impact, and learning from the Together We Heal and Recover project – a creative, community‑led initiative based at The Barn at Easington.
Grounded in Black feminist and trauma‑informed practice, the project brought women together through arts, nature, food, and shared cultural experiences. These approaches created safe and welcoming environments where participants could connect, reflect, and begin to heal. As Shinasa Shahid reflects in the foreword:
“Recovery cannot be separated from belonging… bringing women together across race, culture, and lived experience… is serious work.”
The report demonstrates how this work made a difference at multiple levels. Participants experienced increased confidence, wellbeing, and a stronger sense of belonging. Communities developed deeper trust and solidarity across difference. Organisations strengthened partnerships and adapted their practices, while institutions began to recognise the value of community‑led, culturally grounded approaches.
The report also documents how the project responded to a violent racist attack on Nigerian families in East Durham, highlighting both the strength of community‑led action and the ongoing need for structural change.
Overall, the report offers both evidence and testimony. It shows how healing, creativity, and relationships can drive meaningful social change, beginning with individuals and communities and extending towards wider organisational and institutional transformation.
Read the full report here.
For more information please contact
Shinasa Shahid shinasa.shahid@gmail.com
Dr Sue Robson – sue@suerobson.co.uk
