Project Salama

A survivor-led charity that advocates and supports victims of domestic abuse, Project Salama has been a lifeline for many people, said their nominator for Volunteer/s of the Year sponsored by AB Walker.

Their nominator said of the volunteers “they go above and beyond to show survivors and their children love, compassion and open-ended support.

“They provide their wonderful ‘chai and chat’ support groups, a place where survivors can come without judgement and feel safe and supported, and a chance for them to forget about what other awful things may have, or still be happening, in their personal circumstances.”

The charity also raises funds to provide additional support services such as their weekly yoga sessions. “These type of holistic services give survivors such incredible healing tools to help them feel empowered and a step forward in their recovery journey.

“The team are survivors themself and hold a passion which cannot be matched. I’m so impressed with their work I have supported them with a fundraising initiative this year,” said their nominator.

Nida Ali Salama has been nominated for Employee of the Year sponsored by Reading Buses. The nominator said: “Amazing worker she goes out of her way,” and praised her life-changing support of survivors.

Project Salama has also been nominated for Charity of the Year sponsored by Reading Today. The nominator said: “This is a truly inclusive charity that supports everyone regardless of gender, race, religion, background, or country of origin.

“They go beyond offering help; they create a safe, empowering space where people feel seen, valued and genuinely cared for.”

Their support is both emotional and practical, they said. The charity provides access to legal advice through sessions with solicitors, and organises fun, family-friendly outings for mothers and children such as trips to Bournemouth, the cinema, the Bristol Balloon Festival and local lakes.

“What sets this charity apart is its diverse and multilingual volunteer team, enabling people to express themselves comfortably in their mother tongue.”

They collaborate with other organisations such as Utilivu, BWA, Alana House, Reading Community Learning Centre, Get Berkshire Active, and many more, creating a strong, interconnected support network, they said.

“As someone who has directly benefited from their support, I can wholeheartedly say that their dedication, compassion, and tireless work have made a real and lasting impact on countless lives – including mine.”