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Tips for making phone calls

 

  • Write out the questions you need to ask before calling. That way you won’t forget anything.
  • Take a deep breath before calling to calm you down, and remember that people will want to help you.
  • Call helplines like ChildLine when the soaps are on. They are less busy then.
  • If you don’t get through first time, keep on trying.
  • Keep a pen and paper handy, in case you are given any numbers or addresses.
  • Some helplines might show up on the phone bill. If this is a problem make your call from a phone box or a pre-pay mobile. 0800, 0500 and 0808 are free to call and DO NOT show up.
Confidentiality

You may be calling up some of these organisations about things that are secret, and you need to be sure of what will happen after you have told someone.

The organisations in this directory have rules about how they will deal with what you tell them. Some of them are completely confidential and will not tell anyone what you have said. Some of them may have to act on what you have told them, if it is in the interest of your safety. Ask them what will happen with what you tell them, and if you are not happy with this find someone else to tell who you can trust.

Make sure you understand how confidential they can be, so you are in no doubt about the control you have over what happens.

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