International Women's Day 2016 I sat watching women from all over the world perform, share stories and celebrate together.

'I love singing' I said to the stranger next to me. 'Me too' she said. We got talking. I can't join a choir because I'm a parent carer and can only do things in school hours, she was seeking sanctuary in the UK and couldn't afford to pay to join something, as well as being restricted to school hours.

'I'm going to start one!' I said. And United Voices was born.

Stockton on Tees is home to many women who are isolated for different reasons, some of whom are here to seek sanctuary. I volunteer with many women at a local charity and I know how much they, and the rest of our community would benefit from us coming together in a safe place to have fun, make new friends and enjoy ourselves.

United Voices is a choir for all women, it's FREE because we believe in breaking down barriers. It's important because making friends and singing significantly improves your quality of life!

I hope you'll be able to support us.

Thank you