Care and support

What can I do if I am a child or young person who is being abused or neglected?

ChildLine is a free, confidential helpline for all children and young people in the UK. You can call at any time of night or day, and talk about any problem. Just pick up a phone and dial 0800 1111.

The lines are very busy, so if you can't get through at first keep trying.

If you are living away from home there is a special helpine called The Line. This is the helpline for you if you live in a foster home or children's home, if you're at boarding school, or if you've been in hospital for a long time. You can call The Line on 0800 4444 from 3.30pm to 9.30pm at weekdays, and 2pm to 8pm at weekends.

You can write to ChildLine if you prefer, and one of the counsellors will reply to your letter. This is also free, and you don't have to use a stamp. Write to:
ChildLine
Freepost NATN1111
London
E1 6BR
You can also ring the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.