The NSPCC’s Childline service is anticipating thousands of children and young people reaching out to them for help and support across the upcoming festive period, with counsellors available around the clock throughout the holidays.
Childline bases across the UK, including in Belfast and Foyle, will be in operation throughout the Christmas period, filled with both full-time staff and volunteers.
Over the 12 Days of Christmas last year (24th December 2023 to 4th January 2024), Childline delivered almost 5,500 counselling sessions to children living across the UK, averaging out at more than 450 a day.
As throughout the rest of the year, problems with mental health and wellbeing the main reason why children and young people contact Childline.
However, there are also recurring issues and worries arising that are more specific to the festive season including:
- Young people reflecting on the prospect of Christmas without a loved one
- Being worried about family conflict and adults consuming alcohol
- Feeling pressure to eat more than normal/coping with an eating disorder
- Concerns about family money worries
- Feelings of guilt or jealousy about the presents they receive
*A 16-year-old girl from Northern Ireland told Childline: “I’m feeling quite low as I’m currently living in this temporary care placement and I haven’t seen my little siblings in over two weeks.
“I miss them so much. I don’t think I’ll be out of here soon which means I’ll most likely be spending Christmas on my own. It’s so depressing.”
*A 15-year-old boy from Northern Ireland told Childline: “It’s New Year’s Eve and everyone else is out partying with family and with friends – but I’m gonna sleep right through it.
“I just don’t feel like I’ve got anything to be happy or excited about. Every year is horrible. As far as I’m concerned, it’s just another year closer to dying. Sorry to be so gloomy, it’s just how I feel right now.”
Shaun Friel, Childline Director, said: “As always Childline will be here to help the thousands of children and young people across the UK who we expect to contact us by phone and online over the festive period.
“Some concerns will be what we deal with throughout the year, while others are likely to be more specific to Christmas, such as adults drinking too much, family friction and financial pressures.
“Whatever the issue or concern is, we are reminding all children and young people that our trained counsellors will be here to listen and support them on every day of the 12 Days of Christmas and onwards into 2025.”
This Christmas, a child will contact Childline every 45 seconds on average. Help the charity to make sure Childline is ready for every question this festive season by visiting the NSPCC website. Just £4 could help a counsellor answer a call this Christmas.
The Childline service is here for children every day, even on Christmas Day. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk
The NSPCC Helpline provides adults with a place they can get advice and support, share their concerns about a child or get general information about child protection. The Helpline can be contacted for free on 0808 800 5000 or by emailing: help@nspcc.org.uk
