‘We are appealing to you to help share a sense of hope’
By Mary Dennehy
The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children is appealing for public support, in light of an increase in calls since schools closed to help delay the spread of cornovirus.
According to the charity, which operates Childline, it will continue listening to children and young people 24 hours a day, every day, but they need the public’s support.
John Church, ISPCC Chief Executive said: “Life as we know it has been put on hold for now – and so have the vital fundraising activities on which childline depends for its continued existence.
“But child abuse does not stop in a pandemic.
“Nor does neglect.
“Nor do mental health difficulties or self-harm.
“In many cases, children and young people across the country are experiening these issues more acutely now than ever before.
“Many of those who contact Childline tell us they feel as though they have nowhere else to turn.
“They need our help.”
He added: “Childline will continue to be there for them 24 hours a day, every day – but only if we receive public support at this critical time.
“We rely on donations for 90 per cent of our funding.
“We are appealing to you, to help share a sense of hope with children.
“To let them know that someone cares.
“Your donation will be a part of every contact Childline answers.”
Anyone who can support Childline at this time is invited to donate at Donate Now
For further details on Childline visit the Childline Website.
Call Childline, which is there to listen to children and young people up to the age of 18, on 1800 66 66 66.
Childline also has a live message option on its site or text 50101.
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