Double act to host a virtual assembly

TV duo Ant and Dec are taking part in a virtual NSPCC Speak Out Stay Safe assembly amid concerns about the impact of Covid- 19 on children’s safety and mental health and well-being

The special broadcast on Tuesday morning is suitable for children aged five and over.

It aims to help them understand how to speak to a trusted adult if they feel anxious or worried, and it explains the support that Childline can offer.

It will also focus on a d d i t i o nal concerns that some children are experiencing due to the pandemic.

The assembly will also feature an appearance from comedian David Walliams.

The coronavirus- related worries the assembly will cover include children not being able to see their family and friends, changes in daily routines, experiencing new feelings and spending more time online.

Ant said: “After what has been an incredibly difficult start to the year for many young people, we feel privileged to, once again, be hosting the NSPCC’s virtual assembly for children and their families.”

Between the beginning of the first lockdown and the end of December, Childline has delivered more than 3,000 counselling sessions around mental and emotional health with children in Scotland.

Referrals from the NSPCC helpline to agencies in Scotland about children living with domestic abuse have increased by more than 30 per cent during the pandemic.

The assembly will be held on the NSPCC Facebook page from 10am.