Volunteers keep ChildLine running over festive period

COUNSELLORS at ChildLine are giving up their time over the festive period to keep the helpline available for vulnerable South Yorkshire youngsters.

Youngsters from across the UK contacted the service 2,373 times on Christmas Day 2010 and volunteers were again helping to keep things going this year.

Family relationship problems, bullying and sexual abuse were the most common reasons for children to contact ChildLine over the festive period last year.

Nearly one in six counselling sessions were about depression, self harm or suicide.

Director Peter Liver said: “On New Year’s Eve, when most people are heading out for a night on the town, ChildLine volunteers will be taking calls and messages from children who need someone to talk to.

“We couldn’t keep ChildLine open for children without their amazing commitment and dedication.

“While Christmas and New Year can be a time of celebration, for some young people the festivities can make their problems feel even more distressing.”

Children can speak to a counsellor online at childline.org.uk or by telephone on 0800 1111.