About Us

The Sharan Project, founded in 2008 is a U.K. based charity providing support and advice to vulnerable women, particularly of South Asian origin, who have been or are at risk of being disowned due to abuse or persecution.

This could be partially or wholly as a result of Forced Marriage, potential, perceived or real threats and acts of Domestic Abuse, Honour-Based Abuse; Dowry Violence, Sexual identity or indeed other forms of cultural conflict. Women suffering from abuse are frequently unaware of or unable to access support from critical services to rehabilitate their lives. Many live in constant fear, and are at risk of being disengaged and isolated from society, communities and families.

Founded in 2008 by Polly Harrar, a South Asian professional based in the United Kingdom who, in recognition of the complex needs of South Asian women in the U.K. saw an increasing demand to provide culturally sensitive, tailored support, practical advice and information to empower women to re build their lives.

The organisation is  largely a web-based service as well as providing assistance on key life skills, as well as information and advice on a range of issues including: health, housing, employment, education, financial, legal and personal development, to support vulnerable women in their transition to independent living without fear.

Whilst we do not provide financial assistance or accommodation, we are here to listen without judgement and help you get back on your feet by providing support, advice, make referrals and offer information on the choices available to you in a safe and culturally sensitive environment.

Our key goals are to:

Educate

Working within schools’ colleges and universities to prevent and raise awareness of harmful practices. Please see our ‘Projects & Events’ page for more details.

Empower:

Improving the lives of women and children affected by or at risk of abuse by identifying the options and choices available to allow them to make informed decisions about their future. See our ‘Services and Resources’ page for more details  

Inspire:

As a volunteer led organisation, we take a holistic approach to ending violence against women and girls, if you would like to volunteer or find out more about Ambassadors, Partners and Supporters please see our ‘Get Involved’ pages for more details