ChildLine expands across Scotland

A ChildLine Scotland base is to be set up in Edinburgh and centres in Glasgow and Aberdeen expanded.

Education Minister Hugh Henry announced funding of £500,000 for the project.

He said: "ChildLine gets more calls than it can handle, some just can't get through and get the support they need. This money will change that."

William Douglas, of ChildLine Scotland, said: "This will take us closer to our desire to be there for every child or young person in need of protection."

Mr Henry praised the dedication and determination of those working to help children in Scotland on a visit to ChildLine Scotland's service in Glasgow.

"The work of volunteers and professionals - like social workers - is crucial in providing them with the support they so desperately need all year round," he said.

About £308,000 will be used to cover the costs of setting up ChildLine's Edinburgh office.