Childline service now seeking volunteers for Cork office

The Childline listening service, which is dedicated to helping Ireland’s children, is recruiting volunteers for its office in Cork.

Founded in 1989 by the ISPCC, Childline offers a free, anonymous and confidential service that is available to children 24 hours a day by phone, text, and online web chat.

Childline’s listening service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is free and confidential, and can be reached online or by phone.

ISPCC Childline volunteers offer essential support, creating a safe space for children to share their feelings and challenges.

The service provided by ISPCC is always available to any child and young person across Ireland who would like to talk about any topic on their mind.

Volunteers come from all walks of life and are united in wanting to help ensure that no child or young person in Ireland has to face their challenges alone.

Volunteers receive full training in advance of answering their first contact and work four hours a week at their closest centre.

Training will take place in September, with volunteers receiving ongoing support and upskilling thereafter.

One Childline volunteer, Shauna McDaniel, said she volunteered because she would have loved to have called the service when she was young.

“I could have really benefited from having an adult to talk to, to help me feel less alone, to feel that I was worthy of being part of a conversation, to reassure me that my life is valid and how I feel is valid,” she said.

Another volunteer, Sarah Edwards, said contributing to Childline had changed her life in ways she could never have envisioned.

Her aim when she started volunteering three years ago “was to empower at least one child on my shift, but the reason why I stay is because of the other volunteers.

“I’ve made friends for life, we really support each other.”

Childline regional supervisor Mary Nolan Durkan said volunteers play a vital role in helping to ensure there is always someone there to listen, support, and empower children and young people when they seek a listening ear.

“The Childline training course is a comprehensive course which equips volunteers with the skills to deliver a quality service to children,” she said.

To donate or volunteer, visit ispcc.ie. Children can chat online at childline.ie