CHILDLINE ADVICE: We’re adapting to make sure no child is left to cope alone

At Childline, we’ve worked with children throughout the pandemic from school closures, through to exam results, and adapting to the new normal.

But struggles that children might normally face, like bereavement, have also been amplified. Young people have told us how upsetting it was that they couldn’t see a loved one before they passed away, or attend their funeral. One girl reached out to Childline after her grandma died very suddenly:

“I loved her so much. I didn’t get to go and see her this year because of Covid. I don’t know what to do and I can’t grieve properly.”

With children having faced so much distress in the space of a few months, it’s crucial that they can receive the support they need.

As we move from crisis to recovery, we know that extraordinary steps need to be taken for our children. The Government needs to put the safety and wellbeing of our children alongside economy and health priorities in their recovery plans.

We believe no child should be left to cope alone. That’s why, despite everything, Childline worked hard to adapt to the ever-changing situation, so that we could still be here for children.

We had to close the night service for the first time in our history and had a 30% drop in volunteer hours, due to counsellors having to self-isolate. But the commitment of our staff and volunteers allowed the service to continue.

Childline has been there for children throughout the pandemic. When children need to talk about their worries, we’re here. If the new normal feels scary, we’re here. When home isn’t a safe place, we’re here.

But this is only possible with your donations and support. You helped us before the pandemic and stay on the frontline throughout, and now we need your help so we can still be here, for every child.

So please, stand with us. Visit our web page www.nspcc.org.uk/support-us/campaigns/still-here, add your name and show your support.