The NSPCC has put out an urgent call for volunteers in the North East of Scotland to help its work to keep primary school age children safe from abuse
A charity project working to keep primary school aged children safe from abuse is in urgent need of volunteers in the north east of Scotland.
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children’s (NSPCC) school service initiative sees volunteers visit schools to deliver assemblies and workshops to children aged four to 11.
Using a mascot in the form of a speech bubble called Buddy the sessions help children understand and recognise the signs of abuse, learn how to protect themselves and learn how to get help.
We really need more school service volunteers to reach more children
Across Scotland, the project’s volunteers have visited over 3,000 schools but struggle to reach some areas in the north east of the country because of a shortage of volunteers.
Bosses at the charity say it requires at least 20 volunteers for the region and is particularly looking for those who could deliver the vital Speak Out, Stay Safe sessions in Aberdeenshire and Moray.
NSPCC research shows that on average at least two children in every primary school classroom will have suffered some form of abuse or neglect.
“We’re absolutely committed to ensuring as many primary-school children as possible get the information they need to speak out and stay safe,” said the project co-ordinator for Aberdeenshire Heather Whyte.
“We continue to break boundaries in Scotland and we look forward to meeting even more pupils within a wider age range in the school year ahead.
“We’re currently recruiting more volunteers to join our extremely committed team and look forward to hearing from anyone who may be interested in joining this important and innovative service.”
Matt Forde, national head of service for NSPCC Scotland, added: “By ensuring pupils learn in an informal and interactive environment, we’re giving them the tools they need to protect themselves in the future and we really need more school service volunteers to reach more children.”
Volunteers are provided with full specialised training and help deliver presentations in schools once every two years.
For more information on becoming a school service volunteer visit the NSPCC website.
