NSPCC's emergency appeal for Childline

To continue to support children during the coronavirus outbreak, the NSPCC has launched its ‘We’re still here for children’ emergency appeal.

The charity is urging the public to visit its website and donate £10 to help fund vital services like Childline – which is used by young people who desperately need someone to talk to, especially when home is not a safe place.

In the past few weeks, Childline has heard from children whose parents have lost their jobs and are under growing financial pressure, as well as from young carers struggling to look after their siblings whilst their parents fall sick with coronavirus symptoms.

The service is also hearing from children who have had suicidal thoughts and talk about feeling trapped and isolated.

To support the appeal, the NSPCC has launched a new television advert that features a Childline counsellor talking after a shift about the vital importance of the service.

Peter Wanless, CEO of NSPCC, said: “At this uncertain time when children’s lives have changed so dramatically, the NSPCC needs to be there as a reassuring voice for those worried about their children and for the most vulnerable in our society.

“Sadly, we know that for many children, home isn’t a safe place and they need our Childline counsellors more than ever. This is the greatest challenge we’ve faced in decades and we are calling on the support of the public to help us ensure we can still be here for children.”

Donations can be made via the charity’s website – www.nspcc.org.uk