Although torture may seem like an issue that has no impact on Britain, the reality is that every year around 3,000 victims of torture receive the help they desperately need right here. They come from all over the world. Since our founding in 1986 we have treated over 40,000 people, some have been Holocaust survivors, others British Prisoners of War. Most are exiles from more recent conflicts and arrive at the Medical Foundation after enduring horrors that defy the imagination.

These torture survivors come to us because ours is the only organisation in the UK dedicated to providing them with medical care, practical assistance and psychotherapeutic support. We rely upon donations for our existence, and that reliance grows as the list of those waiting for our services lengthens. Your generosity will directly help rebuild the lives of people who have seen the worst mankind has to offer.

Bacia is an example of one of the many people whose lives you can help to transform. In her home country in Africa, rebel soldiers shot and killed Bacia's father before her eyes. She was then held in a house where she was raped repeatedly by gangs of soldiers. After enduring these attacks for several months, Bacia was recognised by a friend of her father's while she was buying food for the soldiers. He hid her in his house and eventually arranged for her passage to Britain.

When she was first referred to us, Bacia was terrified, physically sick and tormented by violent hallucinations. We invited her to attend the Medical Foundation's Young Women's Group, where she would be among people who had suffered similarly. Over time, Bacia began to share her experiences. She is still making progress in the group and in individual therapy.

There is much support we still need to give Bacia, both now and in the future. Without your help, we will be unable to do so. It's not the stuff of miracles. It's the product of teamwork, time, expertise and, above all, your generosity.