The Blagrave Trust was part of a funders’ alliance supporting a range of voluntary sector partners to provide support to young people who were affected by child sexual exploitation. The voluntary sector agencies also provided training and support to other professionals. An independent evaluation conducted by the University of Bedfordshire showed that the voluntary sector had a unique role and brought particular benefits as opposed to providing support through statutory services.
In particular, young people said how much they valued the ability to continue to receive services for as long as they needed them. The voluntary engagement of young people meant they built their sense of self efficacy which was an essential part of their recovery and addressing their situation.
Read more in the report here.