Childline is a support service for anyone under 19 in the UK. It offers young people a chance to talk to trained counsellors about anything that is worrying them, whether it feels big or small, at any time of day or night.
It may be a helpful resource for clergy households where a child or young person needs safe, independent support with something difficult, upsetting or frightening. Childline covers a wide range of issues, including mental health, abuse, bullying, family problems, self-harm, suicidal feelings, online safety, and worries about relationships or the world around them.
Alongside phone support, Childline also offers one-to-one online chat, messaging through a private account, message boards, and self-help tools and advice on its website. It says calls are free, do not show on phone bills, and that children and young people can use online support without giving personal information such as an email address.
What support does Childline offer?
Childline offers free and confidential support by phone, online chat and messaging. Its website also includes advice pages, message boards and coping tools for children and young people dealing with difficult feelings or situations.
Who is it for?
Anyone under 19 in the UK.
Is it confidential?
Yes. Childline describes itself as a free, private and confidential service. It also says calls do not appear on phone bills, and that users do not need to provide personal details to create an account for online support.
How might it help?
It may be helpful if a child or teenager needs someone outside home, school or church to talk to, or wants support without having to explain everything face to face. Because support is available both online and by phone, there are different ways to reach out depending on what feels safest.