Staying safe
When something scary or stressful happens to us, it can affect mental health. Even if it happened a long time ago.
If you’ve been hurt, treated in a way that makes you feel unsafe, frightened, unhappy or lonely, it’s important to tell an adult that you trust. Below are some suggestions on where to go for support.
Confidentiality
Where possible, professionals will respect your confidentiality and will only share information with someone else if you say that’s okay.
However, if you tell them about something they feel puts you, or someone else, at risk of serious harm, they’ll need to share this information. This is because keeping people safe will always be more important than keeping a confidentiality promise.
This should be discussed with you first, and you should be helped to feel safe throughout the process. If you’re unhappy with how any information about you is shared, you have the right to complain.
Childline
Childline counsellors are available by calling 0800 1111 or via 1-2-1 chat between 7:30am and 3:30am every day.
Online and mobile safety
Most people would struggle to live without the internet and our mobile phones. They’re a source of fun and entertainment, and help us keep in touch with friends. But it’s not always easy to know what’s safe and what isn’t.
Different ways children and young people can be hurt or abused
Are you worried about something that’s happened to you or someone you know?
If you’re over 18 and were hurt or abused as a child
Information and useful links to services for over 18s who have, or are still, experiencing abuse.
Staying safe when meeting up
It’s really important to be sure that the person you’re meeting is who they say they are.
Staying safe around drugs and alcohol
There are specialist services in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot that provide help with questions around drugs and alcohol.
Staying safe with sex
For info on sexual health, sexual transmitted diseases (STDs), and for condoms and pregnancy advice, check out tidyMinds’ Sexual Health page.
Reporting crime and incidents
Sometimes young people feel worried about things going on in their world, but are afraid to report these concerns. If you don’t feel you can speak to a trusted adult, or you’re worried about speaking out, you can report things anonymously through Fearless.
The service does not track you in any way.
Tel: 0800 555 111