Having experienced a strict upbringing in Bristol, Safina was determined that her own children would have more freedom than she did. She was also keen that they should understand their Pakistani heritage. 'When my daughters were younger I was very strict. It was probably because I was afraid of losing them to the unknown, just like any parent would be. I kept questioning whether I was denying them their rights.'

Safina supported her daughters' decisions to go to college and university. She herself had been married instead, 'I know how frustrating it was so I have always supported my children in this area.' Although Safina supports the tradition of arranged marriage, she is more concerned that her children settle down with good life-partners. She has also given her children the freedom to decide whether to practice Islam, as she believes religion should not be forced on people. Her son Himmat regularly prays at home and visits the mosque, while one of her daughters is also religious.

The family enjoy mealtimes together as often as possible, particularly when it is half term or school holidays. Her son is the budding cook at home, 'I've always tried to break away from the tradition that the kitchen belongs to the woman'.

Safina has sometimes had to justify her liberal outlook:'I think people really questioned my decisions at first before they saw where I was coming from. You need a really strong personality to convince some that you are doing the right thing.'