MORE young people in Cheshire will have access to support from Childline after Redrow teamed up with Hartford Young NSPCC.

The charity received £800, half the cost of training a new Childline volunteer, from Redrow’s Hartford Community Fund.

Danny Daynes, chairman of Hartford Young NSPCC, said: “Last year 4,500 children and young people in Cheshire received counselling sessions, many from the immediate area.

“But because Childline can only respond to three out of every four calls made, that means 1,500 calls went unanswered.

“Funds to train enough Childline volunteers come from money raised in the local community and we’re grateful to Redrow for their support, which will help give children and young people a voice.

“Ensuring every child and young person in the local area has access to this wonderful support network helps them in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.”

Issues discussed by children and young people with Childline volunteers range from worries about their emotional and mental health, family relationships, abuse, peer pressure, bullying, body image issues, self-harm and suicidal tendencies, while some just call to chat because they feel alone.

Many issues can be dealt with over time but often involve referrals for further help from local services.

Caroline Thompson-Jones, area sales manager for Redrow Homes (NW), said: “Hartford Young NSPCC and Childline do a fantastic job in supporting children and young people dealing with a wide range of issues.

“By helping to fund volunteer training we are giving more people access to the assistance that they need.”

Children and young people in need of help and support can connect Childline on 0800 1111 or via childline.org.uk.