State not addressing children’s concerns

State’s Stay Safe programme is not strong enough to support a growing number of children as young as 11 worried about bullying and pregnancy, a new study shows.

The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) said latest Childline figures show drink and drugs, sexual pressures and mental health are all major issues for children as young as 11 and 12 years.

ISPCC chief executive Paul Gilligan, said a new life skills education programme that deals with children’s concerns should be introduced in every primary school.