Support when you’re over 18

We’re here for young people aged 18 and under. But even if you’re over 18 and you need support, you don’t have to cope alone.

On this page

Why support changes
Where can I get support?
Moving on from Childline
Share your story

Why your support changes when you get older

Things in your life change a lot as you get older, and your rights change when you turn 18 as well. All of this can mean that the kind of support you need is different as you get older.

Even though services like Childline can’t support you anymore, there are still lots of sites and services that are there for you.

Changing where you get support can be difficult. It can take time to build trust with new people and new communities.

Whatever’s happening, there are lots of places that can help. Some places will offer support people aged 18 and older, meaning you can use them before you stop using Childline.

3 ways you can stay involved with Childline:

Join us as a volunteer
Raise money for us
Share your story

Where can I get support?

There are lots of places that can support you after Childline:

The Mix
Whenever you need support, The Mix can help. They’ve got expert advice and a free and confidential service to support you. And they can support you when you’re going from Childline to The Mix.
Samaritans
You can talk to the Samaritans about anything, and they can help if you’re having a tough time. Call them for free on 116 123 or send them an email.
NSPCC Helpline
If you’re worried about a child or someone who’s under 18, you can talk anonymously to the NSPCC Helpline to get support. Call for free on 0808 800 5000 or send a message online.
Shelter
Get advice and support on housing or if you’re worried about homelessness and you’re living in England or Scotland. If you’re living in other parts of the UK, we’ve got information on where to get support.
NHS
Get information on any medical or health concerns you might have, or get information on how to contact your GP.
Citizens Advice
Get free advice on anything that might be happening in your life.

small steps
in the right
direction

Get support from The Mix

Moving on from Childline

Whatever the reason you’re moving on from Childline, it can bring up difficult feelings. We know there might be things you’ve told us that nobody else knows, or that you still might need support from other people in the future.

Even after you turn 19, you’ll still be able to access your account and see anything in your locker. It can help to talk to a Childline counsellor about saying goodbye before you leave or turn 19, they can support you with anything you might be worried about.

Illustration of a young girl walking through a door into an enchanted world.

Calm zone

If you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious, we've got calming activities that can help.

Share your story

If you’re saying goodbye to Childline, but talking to us has helped you in the past, then sharing your experiences can be a great way to help other people.

Sharing your story isn’t the same as talking to a counsellor. It can be upsetting and can affect you in ways you’re not expecting, so if you’re thinking about it then it’s important to make sure that it’s the right thing for you.

If you’d like to share your story, the first step is to contact Childline: