The difficult situations described in the stories – and explored in the resources – might make you think about things which have happened to you which you want to talk to a grown up about. Talking to someone is a really good thing to do, so we wanted to share with you all of the different ways you can do this.
If you want to talk to any of the people exploring the resources linked with the Sometimes it Hurts stories, please do this and they can support you to find any further help you might need.
At School or College
When you are at school or college, the Designated Safeguarding Lead is responsible for keeping young people safe from harm and abuse. If you are worried about life at home, or have any concerns about someone else and what they are going through, speak to a trusted teacher, learning manager, member of support staff or, if you know who they are, ask to speak to the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead.
If you are an adult and concerned about a child or young person’s welfare who is based in County Durham, call First Contact on 03000 267 979. First Contact brings together children’s service staff with partners such as Durham Constabulary and health services.
If you are based in another area, your local authority will have a similar first point of contact for support.
Information about domestic abuse
If you or someone you know may be experiencing domestic abuse, both Women’s Aid and Refuge have websites with comprehensive advice and can support you to hide your internet search history to cover your tracks. Together they run the National Domestic Abuse hotline, a 24-hour freephone service available on 0808 2000 247.
Emergency
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.
Local
Your local Onepoint centre offers advice and practical support across all aspects of family life, helping young people up to the age of 19 with a wide range of issues, including health, bullying and what activities are available in your local area.
Harbour is the local service within County Durham who are commissioned to work with families and individuals affected by abuse. They offer a range of service to support people, including specific support for young people. If you, or someone you know, is being abused or being abusive to others, then use their website to learn about the help available or contact their 24-hour helpline on 03000 20 25 25.
Young people
The Mix is the UK’s leading support service for young people under 25. They are here to help you take on any challenge you’re facing, from mental health and money, to homelessness, finding a job, break-ups and drugs. Talk to them via their online community, on social media, or through their free, confidential helpline or counselling service on 0808 808 4994.
For children experiencing or affected by domestic abuse, including witnessing abuse within the home, there is information on the Childline and NSPCC websites. There is also a Freephone Helpline available if you call 0800 1111.
LGBTQIA+
For specialist support for those who identify as LGBTQIA+, go to the Galop website or call their helpline on 0800 999 5428.