Latvian children's hotline 116111 offers online consultations

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The State Inspectorate For Protection Of Children's Rights (VBTAI) children's and teen hotline survey found that “live” consultations don't promote a feeling of security and keep people from fully resolving the problem, so they are offering a new service – online consultations, or chats, according to a VBTI press release on January 31.

The opportunity to receive immediate help in a crisis situation is very important for children. The chat services are implemented in cooperation with the “SIC Latvia "Net-Safe" III” project, and it significantly broadens the psychological support options. The hotline specialists are currently available not only through the hotline or email, but also via chat on the VBTAI website, which is available from 12:00 p.m. - 8:00p.m. and free of charge and anonymous.

“More frequently we're using the online environment to get in touch with others – frequently it's easier to express our thoughts and emotions through writing, as well as find possible solutions and ask for help,” said VBTAI Family Support Department Director Amanda Vēja.

She says it can be really difficult to seek help when you're experiencing negative emotions, especially for those children who are ashamed, afraid or insecure. A telephone conversation may seem too frightening, and with an email there is a longer response time. It's important for psychological help to be available in several forms so that the child can choose the most suitable method.
 

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