By Joe Cartwright, CPSU training and development consultant
In this blog, Joe, talks about the role the NSPCC Helpline can play in supporting staff and volunteers running holiday activities this summer.
The blog includes:
- Creating a safe space for your worries
- Using the assessment framework triangle
- Practical and impartial safeguarding advice
- You're never alone
Joe is a consultant who works with sports organisations, but before that he spent years working on the helpline supporting parents, carers, professionals and adults in the community who contacted the helpline for support and advice.
"I want to make sure that those clubs and providers hosting holiday programmes know that they are never alone if they ever have a worry about a child.
Creating a safe space for your worries
"Running a summer holiday club is incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its share of worries. This could be new children joining who may have a more complex life at home, increased screen time and vulnerability to harmful situations, signs of neglect or isolation, community safety or pressure on emotional wellbeing.
"If anyone ever finds themselves uncertain or concerned about a child's wellbeing, I want them to remember that our helpline is here for them. It’s a confidential and supportive space where anyone can discuss concerns and receive expert guidance. The helpline staff are all amazing, knowledgeable people who ultimately care about doing what is in the best interest of the child. They are trained to support and offer callers a safe space to discuss worries and give practical help.
"You should feel comfortable discussing any concerns without fear of judgment. Whether you’re a club leader, volunteer, parent or staff member, they’re here to support you.
"Our helpline is a free service, and we signpost to specialist services as needed. We also have specialist and dedicated helplines for non-recent abuse in football, cycling and gymnastics clubs, for staff who currently work in education, for whistleblowing, non-recent abuse and female genital mutilation.
Using the assessment framework triangle
"Once you contact the helpline, a practitioner will talk through the situation but also explore wider concerns which may not have been presented. One of the most valuable tools they use is the assessment triangle used regularly by social workers. This framework helps to evaluate three critical areas: parenting capacity, the family environment, and the child's developmental needs. By considering these aspects, the helpline staff can build a comprehensive picture of each child's situation and tailor their approach to the specific needs of each child, ensuring they offer you the right support.
Practical and impartial safeguarding advice
"The NSPCC Helpline maintains an impartial, child-first approach, allowing for anonymous calls or emails if needed. While it’s helpful to share your name, they make you understand the next steps and the importance of contact details if a referral is needed.
"If there is an immediate danger to a child, please contact emergency services. For non-immediate concerns, our helpline is the right place to seek advice and support.
You’re never alone
"If I had one message that I would like activity providers to take away, it’s they are never alone if they have concerns about a child. Don’t sit on your worries—reach out to our helpline and let them help you in keeping children safe during the summer holidays.
"Thank you for the incredible work you do. Together, we can make sure that every child has a safe and enjoyable summer.”
You can contact the NSPCC Helpline by calling 0808 800 5000 or emailing help@NSPCC.org.uk.