I never imagined, as I headed to work on the morning of 15 April 2023, that it would be the last day of the Sudan I had known all my life.

I was sitting in an examination room waiting for my first patient when the world around me suddenly changed. Explosions shook the building, and the sound of relentless gunfire filled the air as fighting erupted between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The force of the blasts threw me to the ground. My first thought was of my children.

Fortunately, it was a Saturday and schools were closed. I tried to reach my car and get home, but tanks and armed vehicles filled the streets. I found myself trapped in the middle of a battle. After a terrifying journey, I finally reached my family the following day.

My husband and children had been sheltering in our basement. Within hours, Khartoum had fallen into chaos. Soon afterwards, RSF fighters attempted to recruit my 15- and 12-year-old sons. To protect them, I handed over my jewellery in exchange for their safety.

After two months of living through war it became impossible to stay. We managed to escape Sudan and reach the United Kingdom. When I arrived and saw the immigration officer, I felt a sense of relief for the first time in months. As news of the conflict spread, we realised my children would be unable to continue their education and the safe lives they had in Sudan: we felt we had no option but to apply for asylum.

Eventually, we found ourselves in Mansfield. At first, I was frightened. I knew nobody, and after everything we had been through, I felt exhausted and broken.

Before long, however, I was introduced to Maun Refuge, a dedicated local charity that supports refugees and asylum seekers and helps them integrate into the community.

They became our anchor in Mansfield. They helped us understand the town and guided us through essential services, including schools, healthcare, and the local council. They supported my children with their educational needs and encouraged them to pursue their ambitions. They also supported me as I prepared for my professional exams, ensuring that I had what I needed to focus on rebuilding my career in medicine.

Most importantly, they believed in us. They saw our potential and made us feel that we belonged and could make a positive contribution to the Mansfield community. For that, I will always be grateful.

Today, I am working in a care job and am just one exam away from resuming my medical career. I also volunteer with Maun Refuge, where I strive to provide the same level of support and compassion that my family received when we arrived. My children are thriving in their studies and are active members of their community.

Mansfield people gave us safety when we needed it most. You also gave us the opportunity to rebuild our lives and look forward to the future once again. Thank you.

*not her real name