Kids can create 'buddy' for ChildLine

Children in schools across the Bristol area are being given the chance to design a friend for Buddy, the NSPCC's new schools' character for ChildLine.

The winner will receive 30 webcams for their school and their character will join Buddy in posters sent out to all primary schools in September, as well as being displayed online.

Buddy and his friend will help tell younger children all about the ChildLine service, including how it can help them solve problems and deal with their worries and why this is important. Schoolchildren get the chance to decide what Buddy's friend should look like and what problems they might be able to help each other with.

Children in other parts of the country are designing other assistance for the charity, such as drawing up a game that visitors to childline.org.uk could play while waiting for a counsellor.

Ian MacArthur, creative director and head of brand marketing at the NSPCC, said: "We recognise that we need to continuously develop and build the relationship that young people have with ChildLine so that the service remains relevant. "

Entries for the Buddy competition can be submitted through filling in the online form or via post. The closing date for all submissions is Friday June 26. To find out more or to book a visit from an NSPCC schools organiser and Buddy go to www.idea.me.uk/schools.

By creating a friend for Buddy and supporting the campaign, schools can help to ensure that every child feels able to call ChildLine on 0800 1111.