Support Childline this Christmas: How it Saved a Life and Why You Should Donate
A lady who experienced sexual abuse as a child has commended the NSPCC’s Childline service for saving her life.
Nicola, not her real name, shared that talking to a Childline counsellor prevented her from taking her own life when she was a teenager.
At the age of nine, Nicola’s parents separated, and her mother’s new boyfriend moved in with them.
Living in a small town in the North of England, the 49-year-old recounted, “There were constant arguments about nothing. If we didn’t set the table quickly enough, he’d whack us – my sister would argue back and he’d chase her through the house, which would end in physical violence.”
During this time, Nicola was sexually abused by this man and another individual but struggled to speak out.
She reached out to Childline through letters and later started calling from payphones. With the help of Childline, Nicola found the courage to report the abuse at the age of 16.
Nicola expressed, “Childline stopped me from taking my own life on numerous occasions. He moved out, but the trauma remained and I kept calling Childline. I needed so much support at the time. Everything was so hard.”
Since her initial contact with Childline, Nicola has sought counselling and therapy, using art, creative writing, and poetry as part of her healing process.
Childline received almost 5,500 contacts from children and young people last Christmas. On average, a child reaches out to Childline every 45 seconds, seeking advice on issues like coping with abuse or loneliness.
Shaun Friel, Childline Director, emphasised the importance of public support for the service to ensure counsellors are available around the clock for children in need.
A donation of £4 could help Childline be prepared for a child’s call for help, while £20 could support the answering of calls from five children.
Donations to Childline can be made via the official website.
In addition to financial support, families can participate in the Walk for Children event to raise funds for NSPCC services like Childline. The event, which takes place in Roundhay Park, Leeds, aims to bring together parents, carers, children, and fundraisers in support of the charity.
Katy Scott, NSPCC Fundraising Manager, encouraged participation in the event to contribute to the vital funds needed for NSPCC services.
Rebecca Wilcox, Childline Deputy President, shared her experience of the essential work done by Childline counsellors, highlighting the importance of the helpline being available every day, even during the holiday season.
Rebecca stressed the significance of Childline’s role in providing a listening ear to children and young people going through mental health crises, underscoring the need for continued support and resources to meet the increasing demands on the service.
Childline remains a lifeline for many children in distress, offering support, guidance, and a safe space to share their concerns and experiences. Your donation this Christmas can make a difference in the lives of children like Nicola, providing them with hope and assistance when they need it most.
