Tyne Bridge to light up green in support of Childline over festive period

The Tyne Bridge and other Newcastle landmarks will light up green this festive period in support of Childline- which prepares for a busy time of year.

The counselling service run by NSPCC delivered 5,501 counselling sessions during the 12 days of Christmas last year- averaging at 450 per day- with volunteers and staff working through the festive holiday, including Christmas day. During the period, counsellors saw a 7% increase in concerns compared with the previous year.

So on 22nd December- the longest night of the year- landmarks across the North East, including the Tyne Bridge, Newcastle Civic Centre and the Newcastle Castle Keep, will join dozens more across the UK in lighting up green to create a visual reminder that Childline is there for children and young people in their darkest hours.

A spokesperson for Newcastle Castle said: “We’ll be lighting up Newcastle’s iconic Castle Keep in green on the 22nd of December to show our support for all the people taking part in the NSPCCs Walk for Children. On the longest and darkest night of the year we hope they’ll be able to see Newcastle Castle against the skyline, and we wish them all the best with their fundraising!”

The public can help raise vital funds for the service by signing up to the Walk for Children and walk 5k on the 22nd.

The family related concerns that children shared with Childline last Christmas included:

• Increased family conflict. 

• Facing their first Christmas without a loved one.

• Struggling to cope with their own mental health or family members who have mental health issues.

• Concerns about parents or carers drinking more than usual over the Christmas period.

• Feeling worried or guilty about Christmas placing additional financial pressure on their family.

• Struggling with eating or body issues, such as feeling pressure to eat more than usual, worried about eating in front of other people or having to hide disordered eating habits.

Shaun Friel, Childline Director added: “At Childline, our trained counsellors know that sadly not every child feels happy over the Christmas period.

“The festive season can be a high-pressured time for families, and we hear from thousands of children during the twelve days of Christmas who need our help and support.

“For some the issues they encounter all year round can worsen over the festive season and for others it can present new concerns.

“With schools closed and children having limited access to wider support networks, we know for those who are struggling that Childline can be a lifeline.”

To enable the charity to be there for all children this festive season, visit the NSPCC website to donate to the charity’s Christmas appeal. Just £4 could help a counsellor answer a call.

Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk