Ask the children - NSW Commission for Children and Young People

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ATC - Kids talk about getting help PDF Document (61 KB)
29 Oct 2002
In a joint initiative, the Commission and Kids Help Line interviewed 195 children and young people to find out whom they approach for support when they have problems, and the factors that encourage or deter them from seeking help.

A telephone survey was conducted with 195 children and young people aged 6-18 years who had previously contacted the Kids Help Line.

Most of the children and young people we interviewed (90%) said they believed they had adequate people or support in their lives to assist with problems and concerns. The majority (70%) said they go to their parents - mostly their mothers - if they have a problem. A third nominated friends as a key source of support. Similar numbers also nominated the Kids Help Line. One in five said they turn to school staff such as teachers, counsellors and principals.

Feeling safe and comfortable are the most important determinates that encourages children and young people to seek help. This includes feeling safe to approach the support person, knowing they care, or won't judge or criticise. It is important to children and young people that their privacy is respected and confidentiality ensured. 'Being listened to' was raised as the next most important factor, followed by knowing the person could offer good advice and help solve the problem.

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