MORE than 10,000 Warwickshire youngsters have been told how to keep themselves safe from abuse and neglect, as part of an NSPCC programme.
And the child protection charity is looking for volunteers to help deliver the ‘Speak Out, Stay Safe’ programme, while also urging schools to sign up for a visit.
During the autumn and spring terms, NSPCC volunteers told 10,359 children in the county how to stay safe from abuse and who they can turn to for help.
Pupils are taught by specially trained volunteers, along with speech bubble mascot Buddy, to speak out if they are worried, either to a trusted adult or Childline.
Through age-appropriate, interactive assemblies and workshops children are taught how to recognise the different types of abuse, and understand how to protect themselves.
Clinton Primary School in Kenilworth was visited by the NSPCC’s Schools Service with pupils from reception upwards attending a special assembly.
Natasha Turberville, NSPCC schools service co-ordinator for Warwickshire, said: “We’ve had a fantastic response from schools in Warwickshire but we want to ensure we get these vital messages to as many pupils as possible.
“We can only do that by recruiting volunteers and visiting even more primary schools – so we would urge any that haven’t been visited by us to get in touch.
“The service is completely free and helps children understand some really important issues in an age-appropriate way.
“Children have spoken out about abuse as a result of our volunteers delivering this programme in primary schools, so we know how vitally important the information we deliver is.
“Our volunteers give up their time to make a difference in the lives of children, and it’s very rewarding knowing that you have helped a child. All our volunteers are given extensive training to help them deliver the assemblies in the most child friendly way.”
Visit www.nspcc.org.uk to volunteer, sign up, and for further details.
