On the actual day GSCE results were announced, I had the privilege as High Sheriff of the West Midlands of visiting the @ NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) in Birmingham for an overview of their vital work and support. I learned about the various services and programs offered by the organisation.I went into their helpline centre where I saw the specialist staff in action who were answering calls from children and concerned adults. It was a powerful experience to witness the important work being done to provide support and assistance to those in need. It was evident that the helpline plays a crucial role in the welfare of children and families in so many ways. I also had the opportunity to take a tour of the facilities and learn more about the day-to-day operations of the NSPCC.
I then spent the second hour of my visit in a separate part of the NSPC building in the ‘Childline’ centre. This was an organisation that was originally set up by Dame Esther Ranzen with the brief of helping any young person in the UK. From its creation calling Childline has always been free. In 2006, Childline became part of the NSPCC to help even more people. Childline is purely for children and young people to use up to the age of 18. It’s such a vital and special service where children feel in a safe space and where they are always listened to. I was lucky enough to meet volunteers and staff whose dedication and passion for helping children shone through.
I must end by saying a huge thank you to everyone who works and who volunteers at the NSPCC and Childline. You all inspired me. If you have a few hours each week to spare I’d highly recommend considering to become a volunteer of this exceptional and transformational charity. To find out more about how to become a volunteer please click here : Volunteering for NSPCC and Childline | NSPCC
