It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of Dame Esther Rantzen — a pioneering journalist, broadcaster and tireless champion for children — whose vision and determination helped shape the landscape of child protection not just in the United Kingdom, but around the world.
As the founder of Childline UK, she gave voice to the voiceless and created a safe space for children to be heard — often for the first time. Her efforts to break the silence around child abuse and neglect transformed public awareness and policy, and most importantly, saved countless young lives. Dame Esther’s legacy, her extraordinary empathy and unwavering resolve, are woven into the very fabric of our global child helpline movement.
Through her advocacy, storytelling, and commitment to listening to children, Dame Esther helped foster a world where help is always within reach. Under her guidance and inspiration, Childline UK – one of the founding members of Child Helpline International – became one of the most trusted resources for children in distress. Her work laid the foundation for the establishment of many other child helplines globally, and her example continues to motivate and guide our network of child helpline members across continents.
At Child Helpline International, we have long admired and celebrated Dame Esther’s work and her extraordinary commitment to ensuring that no child feels alone or unheard. Her voice, her courage and her fierce advocacy leave a lasting legacy that will continue to guide and inspire us in our mission to support and empower children everywhere.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dame Esther’s family, loved ones, colleagues and the countless people whose lives were changed because of her compassion and dedication.
Her light endures in every call answered and every child protected.
Photo: Number 10 / CC BY 2.0.