Childline referrals: what happens next for young people?

Key finding

An emergency Childline referral can be a very stressful experience for a young person

However, a referral can lead to positive change if handled sensitively and if follow-up support is provided, where needed.

Further findings

Young people described feeling a mix of positive and negative emotions immediately after a referral

Often, young people felt scared and shocked when an emergency referral happened, but some also felt cared for and that their problems were being taken seriously.

A young person-centred approach can make a positive difference

The research highlighted the importance of all adults working in a young person-centred way when supporting young people during and after a referral. This involves listening, showing empathy, and including young people in decisions about what happens.

Young people’s experiences of support following their referral was varied

Some young people told us that after a referral, communication with their families about their problems improved, and they were able to access additional support. However, others felt that nothing had changed, or that the support they were receiving was not helping them.