Alun Michael welcomed as new Action for Children ambassador

Alun Michael was given the voluntary role at a reception at Cardiff Castle on November 6.

Mr Michael, who served as MP between 1987 and 2012, is a long-standing advocate for Action for Children's causes.

He will use his experience as a youth worker, magistrate, government minister, and police and crime commissioner to help the charity bring 'positive and lasting change to the lives of children and young people across the UK.

Alun Michael was MP for Cardiff South and Penarth between 1987 and 2012 (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Michael said: "I'm very pleased to join Action for Children in this voluntary capacity as ambassador because in addition to the excellent work done by the charity to the benefit of children in a whole variety of ways across every county in Wales and all four nations of the UK, they are breaking new ground in supporting children and young people who have been exploited by criminals."

He acknowledged the 'frighteningly effective' model of exploitation used by criminals to draw children into criminal activity.

He said his priority as ambassador would be to 'help spread that understanding and to engage public bodies and government at local, regional and national level in combating the very real threat to our children.'

Paul Carberry, Action for Children’s chief executive, said: "It’s a huge honour to welcome the Rt. Hon Alun Michael as an Action for Children ambassador.

"He has a wealth of experience and knowledge that can only benefit us as we adapt to the challenges that all charities face today."

Action for Children protects and supports vulnerable children and young people by providing practical and emotional care and support, ensuring their voices are heard, and campaigning to bring lasting improvements to their lives.

In 2023/2024, the charity helped 687,755 children, young people and families.