Press Releases08 Dec 14

Church and Society Commission Christmas statement in support of ISPCC Childline

Last year, the Church and Society Commission of the Church of Ireland commended the work of organisations like Christians Against Poverty and encouraged people to be particularly mindful of those who are the most vulnerable during the Christmas season. This year, we continue to encourage those in the Church to look out for ways to protect and support the vulnerable by highlighting one particular group: Childline in the Republic of Ireland. Due to a shortfall in funding, Childline’s night–time operation is under threat in 2015.

ISPCC Childline has been operating in Ireland for 26 years and relies almost exclusively on public donations for its funding. The night–time service has grown over the last 15 years to become a critical support to children in distress. In many instances the late night calls are from children who, due to their domestic circumstances, cannot call at other times of the day. Childline currently receives 1,800 calls per day with night–time calls accounting for about 11% of volume.

Such a shortfall could have a genuinely negative impact on children and young people across the country. Perhaps you might consider a donation, as an extra gift, this Christmas? Or why not encourage a group of friends or colleagues to make a grouped donation instead of exchanging presents? Many churches have special Christmas collections – might Childline be an appropriate beneficiary this year?

Children are often the focus of Christmas, and it is hard to imagine that for many children the prospect of Christmas is filled with fear rather than hope and excitement. The work of Childline reflects in many ways the heart of incarnational pastoral care: the Ministry of Presence. Do, if you can, consider supporting such work this year.

For further information on ISPCC Childline’s emergency appeal or to donate go to: www.savechildline24.ie