Calls to Childline increase by 72%

CALLS to Childline about sexual issues and physical abuse increased by 72% last year, but four out of five calls went unanswered.

The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children blamed the rise on the lack of information and support available to young people along with the premature sexualisation of young people.

Notably, the number of calls made from mobile phones to the helpline rose substantially.