Children’s charity Childline received 1,200 calls on Christmas Day along with a number of texts and messages from children across Ireland. According to reports, more than two thirds of the contact was made by males. The majority of calls came from children who were experiencing family difficulties and mental health issues according to National Childline Manager, Margie Roe. “While Childline will not be able to solve all of these children’s issues and concerns on Christmas Day, what we can and will continue to do is listen to, believe and empower them, and most importantly of all we will show these children that we care.” Fifty seven volunteers from around Ireland gave up their time on Christmas Day in order to be on hand to offer support at the end of the phone line. The staggering number of calls highlights once more how vital a service Childline are providing for the children of Ireland. In recent months, Childline revealed that it might have to close some of its services due to a lack of funding, but now, thanks to an emergency appeal where more than €400,000 was raised along with support committed by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, their 24-hour service has been saved. Donations can still be made through www.savechildine24.ie or by texting CHILDLINE to 57911 where a €4 donation can be made.