A charity which helps thousands of children and young people each year is in urgent need of more volunteers in Derry.
NSPCC Northern Ireland has made a plea to people to help protect a generation of children from abuse by volunteering at the ChildLine base in Queen’s Quay in the city.
The crucial volunteer led service provides a safe, confidential place for children and young people to turn to 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Last year, the service base in Foyle received over 27,000 contacts from children and young people from across the UK on issues ranging from exam stress and family problems to abuse and depression.
Children can choose to contact the service via telephone, online via one-to-one chat or by email.
Mairead Monds, ChildLine service manager in Foyle said a child contacted the charity every 20 seconds – and some of these children were going through the toughest times of their lives.
“We have an incredibly dedicated team of volunteers at our base but unfortunately we still can’t speak to every child who gets in touch.
“Becoming a ChildLine volunteer means being there when a child needs you the most. Just one four hour shift a week can help so many children and young people. Sometimes all they need is someone like you who has the time to listen.”
ChildLine volunteers receive training to develop and strengthen the skills needed to offer comfort, support and practical advice and are provided with ongoing supervision and support.
Deputy Mayor Jim McKeever pictured during a visit to the Derry Childline offices, with on right, Shauna Hewes, senior supervisor Childline (Foyle). and, on left, Sarah Carlin, volunteer co-ordinator. Standing, from left, are Paul Leslie (CAMHS), Breege Doherty (CAMHS), Brian Walker (Extern), Margaret Gallagher (NSPCC), Maria McNamee (Niamh), Colleen O'Neill and Maeve O'Neill (Rainbow). (Photo - Tom Heaney, nwpresspics)
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team. Between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday please call 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Between 5pm and midnight please call or text 07825 711978. Or you can email john.gill@derrynews.net at any time.