Alliance High Sheriff Carole Howard has today spent time at NSPCC headquarters in Belfast, one of her chosen charities for the year.
The event was attended by those who handle Child Line calls, child protection and other issues concerning the welfare of young people in Northern Ireland.
She said: “I was delighted to meet with local people who have made it their work to look after young people from across our city and further afield. I am always inspired by the work that they do, which is why I was pleased to make both the NSPCC and Child Line two of my chosen charities for my term.
“From listening to the stories this morning it is clear more needs to be done to tackle the issues that affect our young people – from mental health to child poverty, our young people are continuing to suffer due to the political stalemate in Northern Ireland.
“Belfast is a fantastic city, but we can make it even better for the next generation, working to create jobs and tackle wider economic deprivation. I am committed to this cause and look forward to working closely with these charities for the rest of the year and further into the future.”