ISPCC in region gets over 100 calls a day

The ISPCC Childline service in the north-east, which serves Meath, is getting 100 calls a day. The figures were released as part of the launch of Childline's summer campaign called 'I Can't Wait Until I Grow Up'. The campaign, which will run for the month of May, highlights the fact that that childhood is supposed to be one of the happiest and safest times in anyone's life, yet for many Irish children who contact Childline, this is simply not the case. The statistics released showed that in 2010, the Drogheda-based north-east unit took 37,518 calls, or seven per cent of national calls, which amounted to 722 calls a week - over 100 calls a day. The Drogheda Childline service operates seven days a week with a team of 40 volunteers. In 2010, the unit expanded its services to include an online component. The ISPCC aims to encourage the Irish people to join the ISPCC in the fight for the rights of children in Ireland. Tracey Monson, regional manager for the north-east region, said: "These statistics are the reality of the difficulties many children and families are facing on a daily basis. We must remember that each statistic represents a real child in need. The findings represent children who are experiencing abuse and violence in their homes and many are struggling with mental health difficulties. Our Manifesto of Children's Rights highlights in plain English what each and every child has a right to expect in the Ireland of 2011." Demand for ISPCC services has never been higher. This increased demand, coupled with fundraising in the current economic climate, has placed a strain on the ISPCC's ongoing ability to provide a service to all children who need it. Ashley Balbirnie, chief executive of the ISPCC, added: "In order to divert further crises over the next five years, it is imperative that service providers and decision-makers take these findings as an indication of the supports our children require. Childline receives no State support whatsoever and yet it is the only fully accessible, free service for children in Ireland. For many children, it is the only option. We have all just taken part in a census for planning; let these Childline findings act as a census for the needs of children and their families." He said that by donating to the ISPCC's 'I Can't Wait Until I Grow Up' campaign, people will be showing their support for the society which is protecting children from harm and giving them a chance to have a happy and safe childhood.