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Someone to talk to

Sometimes you just need to get something off your chest or for someone to listen to you. Other times you may have a problem that needs a bit more than that. Talk to someone who can help you.

If the first person you talk to does not help, try someone else. If you do not want to talk to anyone at home, or feel you can't, there are other options such as

  • a teacher or youth worker that you get on with

  • your school nurse

  • your school counsellor if there is one

  • a police officer if you have been victim of a crime

  • a counsellor on a helpline such as ChildLine on 0800 1111

  • a Connexions adviser near you

  • Connexions advisers on 080 800 13 2 19 between 8am and 2am everyday. Check their communication channels for alternatives to the phone.

The NSPCC website  Worried? Need to Talk? gives some very good advice on getting help.

If I tell someone I feel unsafe will they tell someone else?

Only if they think that you may come to serious harm. Aside from that, different workers may have slightly different rules. It is a good idea to check before you talk to anyone what his or her rules are. Anyone who is going to pass on information that you have given them should talk to you about this.

Remember that you can always talk to a doctor or a nurse about sexual health or contraception without him or her telling anyone else, unless they think you are at very serious risk of harm.

Where to get advice without anyone else knowing

A good place to start is the internet. You can surf the net for free in your local library or Connexions centre. The staff at the library will help you use the machines if you need. At Connexions you can also speak to a personal adviser about these issues.