ChildLine
From Free net encyclopedia
ChildLine is a UK-based children's helpline. It was formed as a charity in 1986, largely at the instigation of the television presenter Esther Rantzen. On 1 February 2006, ChildLine ceased to be an independent charity and became a part of the NSPCC, with Esther Rantzen becoming a member of the board of trustees.
The primary role of ChildLine is to provide a 24-hour telephone helpline to comfort and advise children suffering because of bullying, child abuse, problems at school or other concerns. It also works with schools on anti-bullying initiatives and peer support networks, as well as lobbying government.
ChildLine has 11 counselling centres around the UK, staffed largely by volunteers. In 2004 it was controversially announced that the organisation's Nottingham base, which had been the second to open after the London headquarters, was to be closed as a cost-cutting measure.
Approximately 4,000 children phone ChildLine every day, though less than half of these calls can be answered.
Despite most mobile phone operators charging for freephone 0800 calls, ChildLine's number (0800 1111) is generally not charged for by the majority of them. Childline posters point out that "the call will not appear on your bill", for the benefit of children wishing to phone in secret.
International
Similar children's helplines using the name ChildLine have been formed in a number of countries. As of 2005 these included India, Ireland, Namibia, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago and Zimbabwe. Some of these are independent charities; others have been set up by existing children's charities or more general helplines.
External links
- ChildLine UK - official site
- ChildLine set to join NSPCC