NSPCC to adopt new technology

The NSPCC is planning to introduce more ways that children in trouble can contact its Childline helpline.

It said by 2010, youngsters will be able to send text messages or using instant messaging as well as make phone calls.

Last year the helpline received 95,000 calls to its 0800 1111 number but 15,000 went unanswered.

Now the NSPCC wants to raise funds so it can give improved access to Childline. It has launched a campaign to raise £50m to ensure more calls are answered.

With these funds Childline's volunteers can counsel 500,000 more calls every year.

The charity will also use the money to develop the text and instant messaging services. It hopes that these will be used by more children because they are comfortable and familiar with the the technology.

Emily Knee, NSPCC senior development account manager, said: “Children should be able to contact the helpline in anyway they like.”

The new services will not be introduced for two years but the instant message feature will let children have a live one-to-one chat with qualified staff.

Dame Mary, NSPCC director and chief executive, said: "The vast majority of children and young people have access to PCs, whether it's in school or in the local library or other community facilities. The availability of mobile phones is opening up this kind of access as well."