Following a rigorous tender process, three high calibre projects aimed at separated children and ‘aged-out minors’ received funding from the monies raised by The Body Shop and the sale of its handcream: ‘Soft Hands, Kind Heart’ up until October 2011. These projects have commenced and will run into 2012

Pilot Independent Advocate Programme: Irish Refugee Council

An advocacy pilot that centres around providing support to separated children to help them find their voice.  The IRC will match separated children with advocates who will act as a mentor to promote: the young person’s integration into Irish society and their understanding of the asylum process and their new host society. 

Educational and social supports for separated children: Dun Laoghaire Refugee Council

This project is providing vital supports to young people who have arrived to Ireland as separated, and/or trafficked, children by supporting them with their education.  It also aims to strengthen their skills of social interaction and self-esteem, and to empower them to rebuild their lives.  Four young people have been selected, two boys and two girls.  Funds from the campaign will support them to take part in a college course this academic year.

Research on Safe Care for Child Victims of Trafficking: Child Migration and Social Policy Research Group, School of Applied Social Studies, University College Cork

Research has been commissioned on how to deliver safe accommodation and adequate care to a child who has been identified as a victim or suspected victim of trafficking.  Findings will be used to advocate for improved practices in the Irish care system to ensure that children at risk are appropriately supported, protected and empowered.