Ukrainian-speaking counsellors from four child helplines – Ukraine’s National Toll-Free Hotline for Children and Youth, Slovakia’s Linka Detskej Istoty, Romania’s Telefonul Copilului 116111 and Poland’s Telefon Zaufania – gathered in Warsaw to share their experiences supporting Ukrainian children and young people. This meeting, part of the Ukrainian Children Voices Phase III project, was funded by our project donor, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND). The event was kindly hosted by our member from Poland, the Empowering Children Foundation, which runs the Telefon Zaufania child helpline.
During a two-day dialogue, I was reminded once again of the significant value of creating such spaces – spaces of shared understanding where professionals can openly discuss their struggles, exchange knowledge and draw collective strength.
The conversations illuminated the complex realities faced by Ukrainian children and – both those displaced and those still in Ukraine. These children carry the heavy burden of family stress, disrupted family structures and the loss of normal childhood experiences. Displaced children are navigating an emotional minefield, facing difficulties that go beyond mere relocation. They struggle to integrate into new schools, overcome language barriers, and have to cope with bullying and discrimination. Mental health issues have become increasingly prevalent, with rising instances of suicide attempts, depression and self-harm reported in Ukraine and the neighbouring countries.
Equally striking was the discussion surrounding the counsellors themselves. Working under extreme conditions, particularly in Ukraine, these professionals face their own set of challenges: burnout, high demand for services and limited resources. They provide support not only via phone and chat but also work on online outreach and take part in in-person events. The peak year for contacts was 2022, with 180,000 calls. While that number has since decreased, it remains above 120,000 annually.
The meeting wasn’t just about identifying challenges – it was also about identifying solutions. Counsellors shared their approaches to supporting their wellbeing, outreach strategies, stakeholder engagement and navigating the donor landscape.
One of the highlights of the meeting was a tour of the Empowering Children Foundation’ Child Advocacy Centre, which is based on the Barnahus model. At the Child Advocacy Centre, children who have been harmed by crime and their caregivers receive comprehensive, interdisciplinary assistance under one roof. This means that the case of a child entering the Centre’s care is handled from start to finish by a team of the same professionals. During interdisciplinary team meetings, they jointly decide what kind of support the child and their caregivers need. The assistance strategy is then carried out – as much as possible – by the centre’s staff, including psychologists, doctors and a social worker. If necessary, a forensic interview of the child is also conducted at the Centre.
Magic truly happens when people come together. By sharing experiences, asking questions and genuinely listening, we break down isolation, generate collective wisdom and build support networks. It serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the profound impact of empathetic, collaborative work.
I feel deeply grateful for the work of child helplines. Without a doubt, they are an invaluable resource for children and young people. In Ukraine, the National Toll-Free Hotline for Children and Youth has proven to be an essential lifeline, providing urgent support to children, helping them navigate their challenges, and offering a safe space for them to speak up. I hope that soon, everyone will be aware that this incredible support is available to all children and young people who need it.
Kasia Smolinska
People & Operations Officer
