With schools closing for the holidays it is important for families to know who they are able to contact/ refer to for support.

ADULTS:

SOCIAL SERVICES: Staff available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to talk to you about your worries.

During the day and in office hours:

Concerned about an adult? Call 03000 41 61 61 (text relay 18001 03000 41 61 61) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Concerned about a child? Call 03000 41 11 11 (text relay 18001 03000 41 11 11) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Out of hours and in an emergency:

If you need to contact us outside of normal office hours, for example during the night, call 03000 41 91 91.

If you think someone is in immediate danger, the best thing to do is call 999 for the emergency services.

 

CHILDREN:

Childline at Christmas:

It is so important children also know how to access help and support if needed.

All teachers have been speaking to their classes this week to remind them how to action help from Childline and KOOTH (children aged 10-16).

Last December was loneliest month for children contacting Childline.

Many children and young people struggle with loneliness and isolation. During the pandemic, with schools closed and children forced to stay home, these feelings were heightened for many young people. Childline counsellors have also found these experiences were more prominent over the festive period last year when households were unable to mix.

Children are able to contact Childline in a number of ways and for a range of support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year:

By phone- Children can talk to us about anything. No problem is too big or too small. Call us on 0800 1111 or chat to us online.

1-2-1 COUNSELLOR CHAT- Chat with a counsellor online about whatever's worrying you.

Message Boards- Want to say how you're feeling? Or ask a question? Here you can share your experiences, have fun and get support from other young people in similar situations.

By email- www.childline.org.uk/login/?returnPath=%2flocker%2fnew-email%2f

Calm Zone- www.childline.org.uk/toolbox/calm-zone/ There are lots of ways to feel calmer. It's about finding what works for you. Try some of our breathing exercises, activities, games and videos to help let go of stress.

Ask Sam- www.childline.org.uk/get-support/ask-sam/- Something on your mind? Or need some support? Anyone can write in with their problem. I respond to a few letters each week. You can also read my advice to people who have similar problems to you.