Please help to support us in this time of need for children

It’s an uncertain period for all of us, with circumstances many of us have never seen. But that means that, now, our work is more important than ever before.

Childhoods have been disrupted by this pandemic, and Childline has been inundated with calls from children discussing their concerns about the coronavirus, with some expressing suicidal feelings.

Just £5 means we can continue supporting children when they need us most.

Like the NHS and emergency services, our volunteers have stepped up to work extra hours to make sure that more children are able to speak to a counsellor as and when they need them.

There has never been a more important time to show your support. In the last week, children have been coming forward with a number of concerns.

Some children have even said they are considering suicide. The coping techniques that children normally use to boost their wellbeing are no longer available to them. Their routines have been turned upside down, and they have lost many of their social events and support systems. A lot of children and young people are talking to us about how they miss their usual groups and clubs.

Another big problem for children during the lockdown is the inability to access their usual designated support systems; like counselling sessions through CAMHS, for example. Lots of children have already been in touch worried that their sessions have been cancelled, and aren’t sure who they can talk to about their thoughts and feelings. That’s why Childline is doing everything possible to remain open and available for young people to get in touch. We want to ensure that every child has access to free, non- judgemental counselling wherever they are and whatever situation they are in.

Even if a child does seem to be managing well on the surface, it’s useful to signpost them to resources like Childline.

Childline is there for every child, no matter their circumstances. That’s why it’s important that we can continue to offer an accessible service to children all over the UK, especially at a time like this. If you can donate, please visit the NSPCC website, or get in touch over the phone 020 7825 2505. Children can call Childline for free on 0800 1111, or access a 1-2-1 chat on the Childline website. For more information visit our coronavirus support hub at nspcc.org.uk.