For thousands of young people across the South West, ChildLine can be a real lifeline – but without volunteer counsellors it wouldn t even exist.

For thousands of young people across the South West, ChildLine can be a real lifeline - but without volunteer counsellors it wouldn't even exist.

Over the next three years the NSPCC plans to expand its helplines and ChildLine will introduce more choice for young people in how they get in touch.

In order for these exciting developments to happen the NSPCC needs the help of more people to deliver these new forms of counselling so ChildLine can be there for more children in need of support, protection and help.

Sue Minto, head of ChildLine, said: "We urgently need more people to volunteer. Our counsellors are crucial to the service and without them thousands of young people would not have someone to talk to in their time of need.

"As we introduce new channels of communication for young people, we will need more volunteers to help us deliver this service and reach more young people when they need us

"Taking the first step is never easy, so it is important young people can get in touch in a way they feel most comfortable.

"In the South West over 3,000 calls from children and young people got through to ChildLine volunteers counsellor last year.

"Children call the service about a wide range of issues including bullying, sexual and physical abuse, problems at home and the facts of life."

Potential volunteers are not expected to have worked with children before or to have any counselling experience as full training is provided.

ChildLine's centre is based in Exeter.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer counsellor call Alison Gordon on 0844 892 0205.