Sir,

As we come to the end of another year, I would like to say a big 'thank you' to all of your readers who have done their bit to support NSPCC Cymru/Wales throughout 2008.

The support and generosity of the public is essential to our goal to stop child abuse as 85 per cent of our funding comes from voluntary donations and fund-raising so we are extremely grateful to everyone in Pembrokeshire who has raised money for the NSPCC.

Money raised locally helps us carry out the vital work we undertake to end cruelty to children. This includes the direct services we provide to children and families, including our helplines, as well as our campaigning work to contribute to changes in the law.

Child abuse is very much a local issue and something that has an impact on all communities, therefore the need for funds is as critical as ever.

Over the last financial year, the NSPCC Cymru/Wales Helpline, for adults with concerns about a child, received many calls from people across Wales. Our ChildLine base in Swansea counselled more than 10,000 children in need of help or advice throughout the same period. The most common issues children called ChildLine about were - bullying, family relationship issues (including parental divorce or separation) and emotional and physical health.

The hardest thing for a child to do is summon the courage to speak out about what's happening to them.

We want to ensure we answer all cries for help at whatever time of day or night they come in, so this year we launched the Child's Voice Appeal which aims to raise £50 million nationally over the next three years to continue to run and grow our helpline services.

If you would like to raise funds in your local area, either individually, with friends or as part of a company, you can contact the Wales fund-raising office on 02920 267008 and we'll put you in touch with your local fund-raiser.

We wish you all a happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Julie Richards,

NSPCC Cymru/Wales

community fund-raising