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Child protection experts head to China

A British-based charity is sending child protection experts to China in an attempt to help young people cope with the trauma caused by the earthquake, it was announced today.

Save the Children said the advisers would be part of an international team offering expertise on how best to deal with the stress caused by the disaster and its aftermath.

Deborah Barry, from Caerphilly, South Wales, and a child protection adviser for Save the Children, who has flown to the affected area in south west China, said: “The children’s reactions are normal for what is a very abnormal situation.

“Anxiety, fear, aggression, anger and guilt are common feelings for survivors, especially children.”

She added: “Children are incredibly resilient. Given the right support, 95% of children affected will return to normality. It’s the essential work in these initial weeks that makes the difference.”

The charity said it had signed an agreement with the Chinese Red Cross to set up “child friendly” spaces in temporary shelters in Deyang and Mianyang, two of the worst affected areas.

Children will be able to play and talk about their experiences and have access to books and learning materials.

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