KING CHARLES WILL HONOUR A CYPRIOT WOMAN WITH THE BRITISH EMPIRE MEDAL - HER ACTION TO PROTECT CHILDREN - Filenews 31/8
A particularly important honorary distinction for her contribution to the prevention and treatment of the exploitation of minors was received by the Cypriot Andri Nicolaou, a member of the civilian staff of the Avon and Somerset Police in Britain.
Andreulla Nicolaou, known as Andri, is to be awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM), which will be awarded to her by King Charles, in recognition of her many years of outstanding contribution to the protection and prevention of child exploitation.
She has been with Avon and Somerset Police since 2004 and for the past eight years has served as an officer and child exploitation prevention coordinator, playing a leading role in informing and raising awareness among children, parents, carers and professionals.
Within a year, Andri has carried out information activities for more than 21,000 children, parents, caregivers and professionals, on the subject of sexual and criminal exploitation of minors, sexual abuse, human trafficking, drug trafficking through the so-called "county lines", violence against women and girls, crime with the use of knives, as well as internet safety.
Andri, who comes from Cyprus and moved to Britain in 2003, has been instrumental in creating pioneering actions to protect and inform young people. Its work has been recognized nationally as an example of good practice.
She has played a leading role in organizing special information actions on child exploitation, in which dozens of boys and girls participated, while she also conducts informative presentations for all newly recruited police officers and members of the Community Police Support Service (PCSOs).
"My main commitment is to help young people"
Speaking about the honorary distinction, Andri Nikolaou stated that she feels "shocked and surprised", as she never expected such recognition.
"I never expected it. It's amazing that someone thought of proposing to me," she said.
She expressed the hope that the distinction will contribute to the further promotion of her work and to the awareness of society about the exploitation of children and the ways to protect them.
"My main commitment is to help young people and be there for them," she emphasized.
She also made special reference to the dangers hidden in the online world, noting that "grooming" can be carried out quickly and in a way that is difficult to perceive, leading to exploitation both online and offline.
"We are very proud"
For her part, Avon and Somerset Police Chief Sarah Crew praised Andri Nicolaou's contribution, describing her as particularly dedicated to enhancing the safety of young people at risk of exploitation.
As she mentioned, the Cypriot worker has strengthened the relations of the Police with child protection agencies, while she has developed a special ability to create relationships of trust with young people.
"I have no doubt that, as a direct result of Andri's work, young people have made more informed choices and are now better able to recognize the signs of dangerous or criminal behaviours," she said.
"We are very proud of everything she has achieved," she added.
