Talking to Childline
See our advice on talking to a Childline counsellor
Here for everyone
Childline is here for everyone under the age of 19. Find out about the different ways we can support you.
Childline...
- is a private and confidential service
- provides support by 1-2-1 chat, email, phone and in BSL via Sign Video
- has message boards, advice pages and games.
Our counsellors are here for you 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. They are able to listen and support you with anything that you may be worried about. No problem is too big or too small. You don’t have to give your name and the counsellors will also keep what you say confidential.
Confidentiality
Childline is a safe space to talk. Our counsellors won’t tell anyone what you’ve told them, like the police or social services, unless they’re really worried about your safety or somebody else’s. In that case they may have to tell someone to keep you or them safe. You can find out more about this on our confidentiality promise page.
Feeling nervous
It’s ok if you feel nervous about talking to Childline. If you want to, you can share this with the counsellors and they can support you with this. You’re in charge and you can take your time and say as much or as little as you want. You can also ask the counsellors any questions you have or anything you’re unsure about. They're there to support you.
The counsellors will listen to what you want to say without any judgement. You really can talk to them about anything. You don’t have to be in a high-risk situation to get support from Childline. No problem is too big or too small. You deserve to get the support that you need.
Message boards
Our message boards are there for you to share your experiences and get support from other young people who may have been through similar situations. We have message boards on a wide range of topics such as bullying, abuse, gender and sexual identity, sex and relationships, home and school.
Don't feel comfortable posting? You can read other people’s posts who may have been through a similar situation to you. You can also use the search function to find all the posts there are on a particular topic.
Message boards
Want to say how you're feeling? Or ask a question? Here you can share your experiences, have fun and get support from other young people in similar situations.
Mental health
We know that looking after your mental health is important. So we’ve got tips, activities, and ways to get support if...
Peer pressure
Get help making your own choices.
Relationships
Find out what makes a good relationship.
Making decisions
Not sure what to do? Check out our tips to help you.
