Jan honoured for work with abuse victims

Feb 21 2008 by Jessica Flynn, South Wales Echo

A BARNARDO’S Cymru manager has been short-listed in the Leading Wales Awards for her work with children and young people who are sexually exploited.

Jan Coles manages the Barnardo’s Cymru Seraf service, which provides specialist help to more than 40 young people across Wales.

Three years ago when Jan published her study, Out of Sight, Out of Mind, there were no services in Wales for sexually exploited young people. Her work identified 184 young people at serious risk and she has worked tirelessly to put the issue on the political agenda.

Jan said: “I was delighted to be nominated. It helps to put the spotlight on child sexual exploitation in Wales.

“There’s still a mountain to climb. It’s not something Barnardo’s Cymru can do alone. The Seraf service does not yet have the capacity to help every child or young person in Wales who is being sexually exploited. It’s distressing to know there are children who desperately need help.

“I would urge all local authorities to continue to work with us to identify the funding to make sure no child falls through the gaps.”