The NSPCC has launched its latest search for volunteers in Cornwall to help deliver its award-winning Speak Out Stay Safe schools programme.

The charity’s schools service delivers assemblies and workshops to primary schools across the region, and desperately needs help to help reach even more. 

Speak Out Stay Safe is designed to help children aged five to 11 understand how to recognise abuse in all its forms. Using age-appropriate language, it helps them understand that abuse is never a child’s fault, that they have the right to be safe, and how to get help from safe adults or the NSPCC’s Childline service.  

With the help of mascot Buddy, children learn about the different types of abuse and what to do if they're ever worried about themselves or a friend.

Last year, the programme reached over 147,000 children in more than 647 South West schools.

Falmouth teacher Victoria Finch, 42, first got involved after reconsidering her teaching career.

“I’ve always been more inspired by the pastoral work of schools over academic success, so I wanted to contribute to that in a broader way,” she said.

“There are so many aspects of the role that I love so much. The camaraderie is very strong and I feel very much supported by our coordinator and fellow volunteers, united with such an important mission to safeguard children.

“The non-payment is insignificant – the fact we volunteer makes it feel even more special, as if we are the guardian angels that offer selflessly to protect children.

“I also deeply admire the NSPCC for how they demonstrate their values in principle and practice, such as putting children first and valuing their voice in everything they do.”

Retired primary teaching assistant Dawn Leighfield, 57, also from Falmouth, applied when looking for a volunteer role upon early retirement.

“Helping children understand what is and isn’t okay and how to ask for help is such an essential and important message,” she said. “To me it is like a child focused safeguarding First Aid session.

“The reaction and responses from the children who attend the workshops continually remind me how important the messages are that the NSPCC are getting across in this process.”

All NSPCC Schools Service volunteers are required to give a minimum commitment of visiting two schools a month and they will receive training and support from their dedicated coordinator.

Michelle Green, NSPCC schools service manager for the South West, said: “We would love to hear from anyone who can spare just a few hours each month to help share vital Speak Out Stay Safe messaging with children and young people in Cornwall.”

Register an interest by emailing [email protected]