CHILDLINE is looking for new volunteers for 2025 and have urged people to come join them after a busy Christmas, saying: “Children need to talk to a supportive listener.”
The charity is facing rising demand for its services with more children and young people reaching out for support.
Childline is a service to help vulnerable children on the phone at any time of day throughout the year[/caption]
The charity is looking to sign up more volunteers for the year ahead[/caption]
Childline’s 24/7 listening service is a vital lifeline for young people across Ireland, offering a safe and confidential space to talk about anything on their minds.
Volunteers are at the heart of this service, providing the listening ear that many children desperately need when they feel isolated or overwhelmed.
The service operates around the clock, offering help via phone or online and ensures that no child or young person ever has to wait for support.
Now, Childline is looking for new volunteers to join its team at the Dun Laoghaire office, where they will help answer calls and messages from children in need.
The counselling service said in a statement: “The Childline listening service is now recruiting volunteers for its office in Dun Laoghaire.
“Its 24/7 listening service is free and confidential and can be reached online or by phone.
“Childline volunteers come from all walks of life and are united by one common purpose: to help ensure no child or young person in Ireland has to face their challenges alone, no matter how big or small.”
The number of children seeking help continues to grow, with an increase of 12 per cent in contacts over Christmas 2024 compared to the previous year.
And Chidline said that volunteers play an essential role, providing a compassionate and non-judgmental ear whether the child’s concerns are big or small.
Volunteers will receive full training before they begin their shifts, ensuring they feel confident and prepared to support those reaching out for help.
This training is part of an ongoing process of support and development, with volunteers receiving regular up skilling to help them navigate any challenges that arise.
The first volunteer training session for 2025 will begin in February, and Childline is encouraging anyone interested to apply.
Each volunteer commits to a four-hour weekly shift, becoming part of a dedicated team that works together to provide support.
Bosses said it’s not just about offering help to children — it’s about fostering a strong sense of community and support among volunteers, who build lasting friendships while making a real difference.
Dee, a current volunteer, revealed that volunteering with Childline has given her a deeper sense of purpose and fulfilment.
She said: “I have learned so many new skills and made friends from all walks of life. We are all united with a common purpose: to make sure every child has somewhere they can turn.”
CHILDLINE STATS
- 300 children a year contact Childline about sexual abuse involving rape, incest and being forced to watch and/or perform sexual acts.
- 50 children each year are in the process of trying to take their own life while they are on the phone to the Childline team.
- 50 contacts are received every week in relation to sexual, physical and emotional abuse.
- Physical abuse contacts are related to domestic violence, hitting and physical punishment.
- Physical abuse peaks when children are 13 years of age.
- Sexual abuse peaks at the age of 16.
Liz, another volunteer, admits she was nervous when she first signed up, but now she’s proud to be part of such an important service.
She said: “People always think that you’re dealing with the most neglected children of society but this is not necessarily the truth, so many children just need to talk.
“It tugs at my heartstrings that so many children need Childline.”
- TO find out more about the role and how to apply, visit https://www.ispcc.ie/volunteer-with-childline/ or click here to donate.