THANK-YOU FROM NSPCC

I would like to say a big thank you to all of your readers who have done their bit to support the NSPCC throughout 2009, our 125th anniversary year. Thanks to the public giving generously through the NSPCC’s Child’s Voice Appeal, we have made significant strides this year in increasing the capacity of our helpline services, ChildLine and the NSPCC Helpline, to reach out to more vulnerable children as well as adults with concerns about a child. 
Funds raised allowed us to introduce new developments to our ChildLine service. Young people can continue to call ChildLine on 0800 1111, but they can now receive information and support via the website childline.org.uk, contacting us through email, online message boards and one-to-one counselling should they need it. Money raised locally really has had a terrific impact in helping us provide more choice and methods for young people in Nottingham to seek help.
Earlier this year, we called on all adults in Nottingham to be alert for signs of abuse and to take action by calling the NSPCC Helpline. This remains a crucial way that readers can play their part in ending child abuse. If anyone has any concerns whatsoever about a child’s welfare they can ring the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.
Our trained counsellors will help them assess their concerns. Even if people are unsure, it is better to get in touch and talk things through with us. We are always extremely grateful to those in Nottingham who give us their continued support and for their generosity.
Another way people can help the NSPCC is by raising funds in their local area, helping with a collection, or taking part in the NSPCC’s biggest ever Aerobathon on Monday 8th February at a local leisure centre. If anyone would like to find out more, they can contact the NSPCC fundraising office on 0844 8920217 to be put in touch with their local fundraiser.
Julia Stewart
NSPCC community fundraising manager