A retired teacher from Coverack has been recognised for her skills in helping children's voices be heard.

Helen Macfarlane was praised in the Marsh Trust Awards 2018 for her support to children's charity Barnardo’s.

She is an advocate with the Cornwall Independent Visitor & Advocacy Service (CIVAS), providing independent advice and support to some of the county’s most vulnerable children and young people, such as those in care.

Through her work, children are able to be better represented - or even represent themselves - in big decisions that affect their future.

The charity praised her achievements in capturing “the voice of the child” and transforming their prospects.

Helen was nominated for the awards by CIVAS project worker Liz Farmer.

Liz said: “The views that Helen gains from the young people she works with have been remarked upon by other professionals as being of enormous value in capturing the voice of the child.

“Sometimes children are unwilling to express their thoughts and feelings around professionals, but Helen captures their experiences in such a powerful and effective way that child protection plans are strengthened in line with their wishes.

“This means they are being given the chance of a safer childhood and a positive future.”

Liz added: “Helen has also taken on the task of mentoring and supporting new volunteer advocates, sharing her skills and inspiring them through her commitment to young people.

“Her enthusiasm brings the role to life.”

Helen received a highly commended certificate in the awards.

Helen said: “I was keen to use my skills from my work as a teacher to continue to benefit young people when I retired.

“I attended many child protection conferences as a headteacher but only once did a young person actually attend a meeting themselves to put forward their views – it was the most powerful and life-changing meeting I have ever attended.

“Through Barnardo’s I have the privilege of representing young people at these meetings or helping them prepare to represent themselves.

“What I do is very simple – I bring the child’s voice to meetings when their present and their future are considered.”