Contact the NSPCC Helpline
You can contact our Helpline by calling 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, or by emailing [email protected] between 11am and 4pm, seven days a week. If you send an email when the service is closed, it won't be received, and we won't know that you've tried to get in touch.
If we have not yet responded to you and your concerns for the safety of a child increase, please contact the police or local Children’s Services directly. Please be assured that we'll action all contacts that our Helpline receives.
Under 18?
Childline offers free, confidential advice and support whatever your worry, whenever you need help.
All about Talk PANTS: watch the video
Sign up for emails and get tips on starting Talk PANTS conversations
Talk PANTS is here to help children understand that they have a right to say no. And that if they need to speak out about something, someone will listen.
We know that a simple conversation can make a big difference, and that’s what Talk PANTS is all about. To help you get the conversation started, we’ll send you helpful tips, advice and materials by email.
What are the PANTS rules?
Talking to children about their body
Your underwear covers up your private parts and no one should ask to see or touch them. Sometimes a doctor, nurse or family members might have to. But they should always explain why, and ask you if it's OK first. Remember, what's in your pants belongs only to you.
Your body belongs to you. No one should ever make you do things that make you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. If someone asks to see, or tries to touch you, underneath your underwear, say 'NO' – and tell someone you trust and like to speak to.
No one has the right to make you do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. If somebody does make you do something, it is never your fault. Even if the person who has made you feel uncomfortable, has told you it is your fault.
No means no and you always have the right to say ‘no’ – even to a family member or someone you love. You’re in control of your body and the most important thing is how YOU feel. If you want to say ‘no’, it’s your choice.
There are good and bad secrets. Good secrets can be things like surprise parties or presents for other people. Bad secrets make you feel sad, worried or frightened. You should always talk to a safe adult who you trust about a bad secret or anything that doesn't feel right.
Talk about stuff that makes you worried or upset. If you ever feel sad, anxious or frightened you should talk to a safe adult who you trust. This doesn't have to be a family member. It can also be a teacher or a friend's parent – or even Childline.
Talking should not get you into trouble, even if somebody has told you it will. If something has happened that makes you feel uncomfortable, it is never your fault.
Find out more about PANTS
Get conversation tips, discover our PANTS products including books and meet our friendly dinosaur Pantosaurus on our Talk PANTS page.
