Children's charity appeals for fundraising volunteers in Plymouth

The NSPCC relies on donations for around 90% of its income, and the children’s charity is appealing for fundraising volunteers in and around the city of Plymouth to help it protect children from harm.

Every penny raised by its dedicated team of fundraisers and supporters goes towards helping protect more children, and preventing abuse.

Community Fundraising Manager for Devon and Cornwall, Alison Armer, says: “Our research highlights that on average, two children in every classroom have suffered abuse or neglect, with one in 20 children having been sexually abused.

“It’s an astonishing statistic, and what our supporters and fundraisers have in common is a strong desire to help prevent this abuse from happening in the first place.

“They have varied life experiences and backgrounds, but all of them help us by raising funds, in different ways, so that we can continue our prevention and child protection work. We simply could not do what we do without them.”

The money raised helps the charity deliver crucial services in the city to local children including Letting the Future In, a therapeutic service for children who have been sexually abused. And Turn the Page, a service that works with children and young people displaying harmful sexual behaviour.

The charity’s Schools Service offers free safeguarding assemblies and workshops to every primary school.

The Speak out Stay safe programme helps children know about the five forms of abuse, which are neglect, physical, sexual, emotional, and bullying. It also teaches them how to identify trusted adults they can speak to if they have a worry or concern, who would act on their behalf to keep them safe.

Out of its Service Centre in Plymouth, the charity is supporting the Together for Childhood partnership programme, which aims to prevent child sexual abuse in the city. It also offers direct services to support children who have experienced sexual abuse rebuild their lives, and help children who may be at risk of harmful sexual behaviour.

Local children and adults also have access to the charity’s Childline service and NSPCC Helpline, which provide confidential support and advice.

Alison added: “We're looking for people who have a passion for helping young people and children, and would love to hear from anyone keen to volunteer, regardless of how much of their time they are able to share.

“There are lots of ways they can get involved, including joining our existing Plymouth group or setting up a new one, organising their own event, becoming a member of our collecting box team, taking part in a run, or being part of our cheering team.”

Anyone interested in volunteering or fundraising for the NSPCC to help keep local children safe can register online or contact Alison Armer on Alison.Armer@nspcc.org.uk or 07779341767.

Anyone with any concerns about the welfare of a child can call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or visit nspcc.org.uk for advice. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk for free 24/7, 365 days a year.