Physical abuse — adults

The following script contains details of organisations offering information and support to anyone who has been affected by child abuse, however long ago. The phone lines to some of these organisations are very busy, but please keep trying.

It is important to act quickly if you think a child is being ill-treated or is at risk of abuse. The free NSPCC Child Protection Helpline on 0808 800 5000 (24 hours a day) is open to anyone who is concerned that a child is suffering or in distress. Children or young people being abused can also call the helpline. The NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) also gives practical help to families with children at risk of abuse. It runs local projects and has some helpful booklets. Useful information can be found on the NSPCC website at www.nspcc.org.uk.

Safeline on 01926 496911 (Mondays to Fridays 9am-12pm and Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings 7pm-10pm) offers a non-judgemental support service for survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Careline offers telephone counselling for children, young people and adults on any issue, including child abuse, rape, sexual assault, domestic violence and depression. You can contact their helpline on 020 8514 1177 (Mondays to Fridays 10am-4pm and 7pm-10pm).

Bristol Crisis Service for Women offers telephone support for any woman in distress, with particular focus on self-injury. Their helpline is available to women anywhere in the UK and the number is 0117 925 1119 (Fridays and Saturdays 9pm-12.30am). If you would like to receive their leaflets, send a stamped self-addressed envelope to Bristol Crisis Service for Women, PO Box 654, Bristol BS99 1XH.

If you would prefer to deal with a problem in writing, the Topaz Postline offers postal counselling and emotional support. If you don’t have a permanent address or perhaps a reply to your home would be inappropriate, Topaz can arrange that you collect replies locally. Write or send an audiotape to BM Topaz, London WC1N 3XX.

If you are a man who has been sexually abused or who is trying to cope with the abuse of someone close to you, the organisation Survivors UK runs a helpline on 020 7613 0808 (Monday and Tuesday evenings 7pm-10pm). You can also e-mail them at survivorsuk@hotmail.com or check out their website at www.survivorsuk.co.uk.

If you are feeling desperate or depressed, remember you can talk to the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 (any time of the day or night).

This message has been prepared and is updated regularly by Programme Support at Channel 4.