Join SERENA!
Target Profile:
🙍♂️ Adults 18–35 who experienced abuse or neglect in childhood in Wales
👨⚕️ Or professionals in health, social, or third-sector services supporting these children.
Cardiff University researchers are recruiting participants for a European study on access to support services following childhood abuse or neglect
The SERENA research team at Cardiff University: Dr. Yulia Shenderovich, Dr. Sarah Thompson, Dr. Jon Ablitt, and Prof. Sally Holland, is conducting a European research project exploring how children who have experienced abuse or neglect from a parent or caregiver access health and social care services.
What is this research about?
The SERENA project aims to understand what makes it easier or harder for children and young people who experienced abuse or neglect to access the support they need. The study is being conducted in Wales, Denmark, and France (Franche-Comté and Burgundy).
Who can take part?
We are inviting:
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Adults aged approximately 18–35
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Who experienced abuse or neglect as a child from a parent or caregiver
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Who spent part of their childhood in Wales
We are also inviting professionals working in:
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Health care
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Social care
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Third sector organisations
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Any other services supporting children affected by abuse
What does participation involve?
Participants will take part in a one-to-one interview, either:
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In person, or
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Online
All information shared will be treated as strictly confidential.
Interviews will take place between March and July 2026.
Why is this research important?
Child abuse remains a widespread but underreported issue across Europe, with long-term impacts on mental and physical health. By understanding barriers to accessing support, this research aims to improve services in Wales and contribute to policy and practice recommendations at the European level.