A peek behind close doors
Most people never get to experience what happens inside Touching Safe Ground, it’s a space held gently and privately for the women who take part. As Communications Officer at Globe Community Project, I was given a rare chance to step inside.
I spent the morning there to ask the women how they’d like to hear from us, what kind of updates, and in what ways, so we can keep them connected to what’s happening locally.
What I found was more than a conversation about comms; it was something quietly powerful unfolding in front of me.
Before the session began, I spoke to some of the volunteers about what drew them there and why they choose to give their time each week. For everyone it was different, but they shared a sense of wanting to support others.
The room was filled with warmth before the session even began. People welcomed one another with familiarity, setting down yoga mats, preparing snacks, and offering smiles. There was conversation before the yoga started, the connection that builds slowly over time when people feel safe together.
“I come to reduce my anxiety. And also to interact and learn amongst other women. I suffer from body pain and general tiredness. I find yoga, mind-relaxing and nerve-calming.”
As the facilitator guided the group through mindful movement, a stillness settled in the room. The participants, many of whom have come to the UK seeking refuge, moved with quiet focus and care. It was clear that this wasn’t just about stretching or breathing exercises. It was about grounding, reconnecting and finding peace after everything that displacement and uncertainty can take from a person.
“Now my body feels well. Before not very well. Stress, anxious. Now I feel happy. Meet people, make friends."
What touched me most were the small human moments. Someone offering a chair to another, a smile when trying to find balance at a new pose. The way everyone helped each other find comfort, both physically and emotionally.
“Now my body feels well. Before not very well. Stress, anxious. Now I feel happy. Meet people, make friends."
After the session, people sat around for tea and snacks, chatting, sharing stories and checking in on one another. It was simple, but beautiful to be a part of. I even was able to reflect, and share my own thoughts on self-care, and how I can show up for myself in my daily routine.
I left feeling inspired by the sense of community that the project creates. It reminded me how healing can happen through small acts of care, through spaces that say ‘you’re welcome here, just as you are.’
Projects like this are only possible because of the support of our community, the volunteers who give their time and the donors who help us keep these spaces open.
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You can help by making a donation or volunteering with us. Together, we can continue creating spaces where everyone feels seen, safe and connected.