Pat's Answer
To Pat / 9 October 2020
Concerned for her safety
Your Question
A friend of my friend is being abused by her mother, who has taken her phone from her and will not allow her to go to school, so she cannot contact many people outside her home. We are severely concerned for her safety, and I am wondering what we might be able to do to help her
From Pat / 12 October 2020
Answer
Hello,Â
Thank you for contacting Ask Pat and especially on behalf of your friend’s friend. This person is lucky to have you reaching out to get information as to what can be done to help them.Â
You are saying that your friend’s friend is being abused by her mother and she is not allowed to go to school. You also mentioned that her phone has being taken from her and her circle of people she is in contact with is now minimum.Â
At Childline we would be concerned to hear that anyone is being abused in their home and also being refused to go to school.  Every child and young person has the right to be safe in their home and every child has the right to an education. Nobody has the right to hurt a child. Every child is important to us and every child has the right to get help and support when they need it.Â
If you fear for this girl’s safety, you can contact the Gardaà as it is their job to make sure that every young person is safe. However, if you feel that you cannot do this, is there a trusted adult that you could talk to about what is going on. This adult could be a parent, youth leader, teacher, or a family member. It is good to talk to someone about these things that are going on. You and your friend have the right to get support too.
You might find some articles on the Childline website helpful, www.childline.ie/your-rights/ and www.childline.ie/bullying-abuse-safety-and-your-rights or maybe you might like to contact us for a chat. At Childline, we have multiple ways that you can get in touch. The service is available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. You can phone us on our freephone number 1800 66 66 66, or text us free at 50101. There is also a web chat through our website www.childline.ie . Childline is a safe place for you to talk. We do not trace IP addresses or phone numbers, and we do not record phone calls. We can help you look at what options are available to you.
We would really like if you contacted us by any of the ways mentioned. We are here to support you, your friend, and your friend’s friend. We hope to hear from you soon.Â
Stay safe,
PatÂ