What is ChildLine, what is the number and how is Cheryl involved?
SET up 30 years ago the young people’s helpline has supported millions of children in times of need, but what is ChildLine for and who can call?
SET up 30 years ago by Esther Rantzen ChildLine has helped millions of children over the years.
It is one of two numbers that has never changed since it was established, along with 999.
But who can call ChildLine and what sort of issue do they deal with and how is Cheryl involved? We’ve got all the information on the incredible help line.
What is ChildLine?
It is an anonymous help line that is completely free to call and doesn’t show up on any phone bill.
The term children covers all young people up to the age of 19 years old and those who call will be greeted by one of their trained counsellors.
They are dedicated to helping young people through whatever is happening in their lives, from bullying and abuse all the way to exam pressures and sexting.
In the last five years the number of children calling ChildLine has doubled.
What is the number?
0800 1111, if you're 19 and under save it in your phone.
But you don’t have to use the phone to get in touch with them anymore, you can reach out on their and they will soon be launching an app called “Is it OK?”.
You can also watch videos relating to issues affecting young people on their .
How is Cheryl involved?
Cheryl is now a ChildLine Campaigner which means she helps to spread the word about their good work.
The X Factor judge and celebrity songstress has started by recording a harrowing clip promoting their services.
The short film sees her sitting alone on a chair in the middle of an empty sports hall, lip syncing to the voices of young people as they express concerns about self-harm, sexuality and sexting.
Speaking about the charity on The One Show, she said: “Kids just don’t have the courage to talk to someone.
“I was just a general worrier, it’s in my nature, I would worry about the world, I’d worry sick if I saw something on the news.
“I was quite a depressed teenager to be honest, I didn’t enjoy them at all. Worried about exams, everything. I worried I was going to be a failure.”
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