CHILDREN’S charity Barnardo’s is encouraging children and families worried about the impact of a second national lockdown to contact two new services set up to help those struggling to cope.

See, Hear, Respond can provide practical and therapeutic support including counselling for any family in Wales while a new UK-wide helpline is also available for children from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Sarah Crawley, Director of Barnardo’s Cymru which has a shop at cardigan’s Priory Street, said: “We are very aware that large numbers of children, young people and families struggled through the first lockdown and the restrictions that have been imposed in many parts of Wales since then.

“The thought of another lockdown will be very daunting for some and lead to increased anxiety and stress, isolation and loneliness. Young carers and families with disabled children face their own challenges while others may be grieving for lost loved ones or have financial worries caused by the loss of income.

“Our two new services have been set up specifically to support those who are struggling, to help them through this difficult time before they reach crisis point. Anyone can self-refer by phone or by filling in a form on our microsites.”

Both services are being funded through the National Emergencies Trust, which was set up by the Charity Commission to respond to domestic emergencies. The funds have been pledged by the insurance and long-term savings industry.

Families in Wales can now contact See, Hear, Respond on 0800 157 7015 or visit

https://www.barnardos.org.uk/see-hear-respond-net

The helpline for children from Black, Asian and other minority ethnic backgrounds is 0800 151 2605 or visit https://helpline.barnardos.org.uk