WIREDGOV

Since the service began in May, Meic has received almost 4000 calls from children and young people seeking advice and information on issues that matter to them.

Supported by more than £450,000 of Welsh Assembly Government funding, the helpline is the first of its kind in the UK to be rolled out on a national basis.

As part of today’s launch at the Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay, pupils from Ysgol Bodafon school in Llandudno watched and discussed a short film made in conjunction with TV company Calon about the problems which are worrying the animals in the TV programme ‘Hana’s Helpline. Hana is a duck who helps the other animals with their problems and during the visit the children were introduced to some of the animals which feature in the programme.  They also had the opportunity to meet some of the animals which live in the zoo.

Deputy Minister for Children, Huw Lewis said:

“Meic gives young people a chance to have their voices and opinion heard and the numbers show that the service is already proving essential.

“Introducing Meic into children’s culture from an early age is vital in letting them know that somebody is waiting to listen and help from the start.

“Today’s launch illustrates the excellent service and support that is now available to the youngest generation.”

BBC newsreader Sian Lloyd, who helped host today’s launch is also backing Meic.

She said:

"I am delighted to learn about this project which enables children's voices to be heard.

"Whether it is something that is worrying them or a problem they are facing, it must be reassuring to everyone who cares for young people to know that there is a channel for them to seek advice and support."

Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Keith Towler said:

“It is so important that we listen to children and young people of all ages and provide relevant information to them in an appropriate way. The next step now for Meic is to make sure that children across Wales know how to safely access the support and information on offer.”

Children under the age of seven as well as young people under 25 can get in touch with Meic by free phone (080880 23456), free text (84001) or instant message seven days a week. Initially, Meic will run for 8 hours a day (12-8pm) before becoming a 24 hour service.

Advisers will either provide them with information, let them know where they can get further help or transfer them to an independent professional advocate.  These advocates are trained to help children and young people find ways of being involved and being heard on any decision that affects them.