Dear Editor,
Many children across Wales may be feeling excited about going back to school. Yet for some, after 18 months of disruption and a long summer holiday, returning to school can also be an anxious time.
Children might be worried about starting a new school, being bullied, keeping up with schoolwork, or be concerned about their appearance after experiencing physical changes to their body over lockdown.
Recent exam results could also heighten anxiety about returning to school. In more than 40% of the 1,812 counselling sessions that Childline held across the UK between April and June this year relating to exams, young people talked about an impact on their mental and emotional wellbeing.
For whatever reason children are feeling apprehensive about going back to school, it is important that they can talk to someone about how they feel. Our free Childline service is here for every child and young person and our specially trained counsellors are ready 24/7 to listen to any concerns they may have on 0800 1111 or at www.childline.org.uk.
We’d like to thank the players of the People’s Postcode Lottery who raise vital funds that go towards the NSPCC’s Childline Service each year so it can remain a vital listening ear for children in need of support.
Candia Crosfield
Schools Service Manager
NSPCC Cymru/Wales
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