The NSPCC is today (13 July) launching a designated text number - 07786 200001 - for the Channel Islands to drive ‘on the spot’ reports of child abuse to its national Helpline.
The launch comes as a recent NSPCC poll reveals people in the UK and Channel Islands are unlikely to report child abuse unless they act immediately. One in fifteen polled in the Channel Islands said they had been concerned a child was being abused or neglected, but 31% of those who didn’t report their fears immediately took no action later.
NSPCC children’s services manager, Nola Hopkins, who is based in Jersey said: “It’s vital that we pick up on the signs of child abuse as early as possible but we know that the longer people wait, the less likely they are to act on their concerns. Social workers cannot be in the community all the time. By texting the Helpline the public can help be their eyes and ears so we’d encourage everyone to save this number to their phone.”
“The text service was launched across the UK and Channel Islands in May but it quickly became apparent that the number provided did not function across the whole of the Channel Islands. We were extremely keen to rectify the situation as soon as possible so are pleased to announce that the new dedicated text number is now up and running in the Channel Islands.
“Some people may prefer texting to talking when reporting abuse and seeking advice and information about keeping children safe. However you contact the Helpline, it’s about choosing the right option for you.”
During May 2011, when the UK text number was launched, the NSPCC Helpline received 152 texts relating to child welfare, 34% of which resulted in a referral to police and children’s services. When asked, 45% of users who responded said they would not have contacted the Helpline without the text service.
* An anxious member of the public texted the NSPCC Helpline with concerns about a parent who had been seen going out one night and leaving their two young children at home alone. To make sure that the children were safe, the Helpline counsellor contacted the police, who went out and found the children were still by themselves. The concerns were also shared with children’s services so that a social worker could work with the family to make sure the children would not be left in that situation again.
The launch of the designated text number for the Channel Islands - 07786 200001 - is being welcomed by the Jersey Child Protection Committee which joined forces with the NSPCC in January to launch a campaign encouraging island residents to help protect local children.
Chair of the Jersey Child Protection Committee, Mike Taylor, said “I’m very pleased that the NSPCC has re-enforced its commitment to help fight child abuse in the Channel Islands. Early feedback on the success of the UK pilot so far is a sign that that the public regard the text service as a safe and accessible method of reporting their concerns, while the volume of resulting referrals certainly indicates that it is necessary.
“The NSPCC Helpline is there for anyone with concerns about a child, be that a member of the community worried about something they have seen or heard or a parent looking for help and advice about their own behaviour. I’d encourage anyone in need of support to get in touch. Sending a text is quick and immediate and it’s good to know you’ve taken action.”
The new text service makes the NSPCC Helpline more accessible, and adds to the existing ways that people can get in touch, by 24-hour freephone (0808 800 5000), by email help@nspcc.org.uk, or by making a report online at www.nspcc.org.uk/helpline.
Anyone sending a text to the NSPCC Helpline on 07786 200001 will receive an immediate response confirming that their message has been received. This message will also encourage them to call the Helpline on 0808 800 5000, or to contact the police if they think a child is in immediate danger.
A trained NSPCC Helpline counsellor will reply to a text message within three hours, and offer advice, information and assistance. They may ask for additional information about the person’s concerns, or confirm that a referral has been made to the police or children’s services.