Alex's Answer

Can I talk to someone without saying my name

Your Question

I was using the live chat and when they asked me the first question, My name and age, I sent a message saying I would prefer to keep my name private if thats okay but they stopped responding to me. Does that mean I cant get help just for nto saying my name?

Answer

Hi there, 

Thank you so much for your question. We are sorry to hear you had this experience with Childline. You are always welcome to chat with Childline through our webchat service, by clicking on the purple Messenger circle at www.childline.ie. our free phone service is 1800 66 66 66. Our non-judgemental, anonymous, supportive listening service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Remember, there are always people who care about you and want to support you.  

Childline being confidential and anonymous means that you do not have to provide your first name, if this happens again you can express that you don’t wish to use your real name and maybe provide a nickname or fakename. This helps with the interaction process feeling more relaxed. 

Sometimes volunteers ask your age to ensure that you are a child and if you are not a child they can help refer you to an adult listening service. 

We hope this answers your question and reassures you that you are more than welcome to contact us in the future.

Take care,

Alex 

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