Barnardo's Cymru Protecting People.

Barnardo's Cymru's Seraf Service improves the lives of children and young people who have been sexually exploited by raising awareness of the issue and promoting the best ways to address the problems it can cause.

The service is the only one of its kind in Wales and was launched in October 2006 after two years of research.

In 2005, a study by Barnardo's Cymru found that 184 children in Wales had been sexually exploited. The study also found that there was a gap in public awareness about the issue.

Barnardo's addressed this by working towards longterm change by helping care professionals improve their understanding of the problems caused by sexual exploitation.

The initiative works directly with children and young people, as well as with care professionals. It also influences the policy agenda to ensure the needs of young people are kept to the fore.

A range of learning opportunities has been developed, from workshops to conferences, training days and presentations.

The training raises awareness on the subject, while direct work skills for front-line staff are also made available. The initiative now works with four local authorities and has received an influx of referrals and feedback.

It has seen direct improvements in the way carers help service users and a gradual, but marked, change in attitude and understanding.

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Barnardo's Seraf Service addresses sexual exploitation