Over 837,500 calls to Childline service in 2010

LAST year, the number of calls made to the Childline service reached over 837,500, with over 2,300 calls and messages received per day.
According to statistics released this week, there was a rise in the number of young people worried about mental health, with 15% of conversations on the web and text about mental health issues, including suicide and self-harm.
Concern around family and peer relationships also continued to rise to 8% of phone calls and 19% on web and text. Abuse and welfare also continues to be high at 13% of phone calls and 9% of web and text.
Ennis woman Gillian Maloney is a member of the team of Childline volunteers and told The Clare Champion that the young people who call Childline find they need to talk about topics ranging from everyday life to the heavier topics of suicide, sexuality and abuse.
“I find giving my time as a volunteer beneficial for both myself and the kids. I was shocked when I learnt that Childline needs over €4 million to run the listening service each year, so I got involved in some fundraising, which I must say, was great fun.”
Anyone can volunteer with Childline, all they need to do is give four hours to listen to young people. Full training is provided to all volunteers. People can also volunteer their time to help with fundraising efforts. More information is available on www.ispcc.ie. Alternatively, contact the team by emailing Meadhbh (mterry@ispcc.ie) or calling 061 4000 77.
Coinciding with the release of the 2010 Childline Statistics, the ISPCC launched its campaign ‘I Can’t Wait Until I Grow Up’, which will run for the month of May. This effort highlights that childhood is supposed to be one of the happiest and safest times in a child’s life, yet for many who contact Childline this is simply not the case.
Limerick-based director of ISPCC services, Caroline O’Sullivan said, “The findings are indicative of the crises many children and families are facing on a daily basis. As the number of contacts to Childline continues to rise, it might be easy to forget that each statistic is a real child in need.”