CYP Now - The Road to Serenity: Founder of social care provider publishes memoir

Emily Aklan, founder of children’s social care provider Serenity Welfare, has published a new book which tells the story of the loss of her sister, and the establishment of the organisation - which provides nurturing support for hundreds of young people in the care system.

Emily Aklan at the launch of her new book which tracks the journey of social care provider Serenity Welfare. Picture: Emily Aklan/Serenity Welfare

After her sister suddenly passed away aged just 35, Aklan's “whole world turned upside down”. Amid her grief, she fought and won a long custody battle for her two nieces, who had been unlawfully taken to North Cyprus by their father, following their mother’s passing.

Afterwards, Aklan was "horrified" to discover what could have happened to her nieces if they had gone into care, when a friend working in social services told her cared-for children are often transported using handcuffs. Six years later, Aklan created Serenity Welfare, to provide safe and comfortable secure transport for children in care, using a nurturing approach.

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