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HSBC has helped thousands of children from Jersey and Guernsey learn about how to stay safe from abuse through its funding of the NSPCC’s Schools Service over the last four years.
The company has generously supported the children’s charity so that its trained staff and volunteers can teach children about the different kinds of abuse, how to recognise the signs, and identify trusted adults they can speak to if they are worried.
Over the last four years more than 7,000 children across the two islands have met NSPCC mascot Buddy as part of the Schools Service’s educational visits.
HSBC has also funded Schools Service activity on the Isle of Man for the same period, reaching almost 10,000 children.
Nigel Impey, Head of Fundraising for the NSPCC in the Channel Islands said: “The very generous funding from HSBC over the last four years has enabled us to protect a generation of children in the Channel Islands and on the Isle of Man and we are extremely grateful for their support.
“In the average primary school class, at least two children have suffered abuse or neglect. These children often don’t recognise what is happening to them is wrong and it’s exactly why this programme is so critical, educating and empowering children to speak out if they have a concern.”
The NSPCC has been running a free safeguarding service in schools since 2011, before launching the Speak Out Stay Safe programme in 2016.
Bespoke assemblies are delivered to children in different key stages to ensure the discussions and materials are age-appropriate. In addition, the older children attend workshops, where they learn about ‘good’ and ‘bad’ secrets, and whether situations are ‘okay’ or ‘not okay’.
Chantal Le Goff, Head of Sustainability, HSBC Channel Islands and Isle of Man said: “The NSPCC provides vital services that help protect children against abuse, and support to rebuild the lives of those affected by it. During our time supporting the NSPCC in Jersey and Guernsey, we are greatly encouraged to see the number of children who benefit from the organisations help, especially through their school education services and Speak Out Stay Safe Programme.”
As part of the programme children are interactively taught the Childline number, so that they know there is someone to listen to them at any time of the day or the night 365 days a year.
Childline is free and confidential with trained counsellors waiting to listen to children about anything causing them concern on 0800 1111.
