Bahrain has launched a first-of-its-kind hotline that abused children can use to call for help starting today (December 29).

However, the National Childcare Hotline, 998, is not only targeted at children facing abuse or bullying but also academic, social and domestic problems.

The government-initiated helpline is also expected to serve parents, family members or friends.

The toll-free hotline will be launched by Human Rights and Social Development Minister Dr Fatima Al Balooshi at a special ceremony at the National Centre for Child Protection.

Specialised counsellors and experts will be available to address complaints and guide youngsters to tackle their problems, said a ministry spokeswoman.

Details of callers will be kept confidential as they report abuse, request protection or seek advice on school-related problems such as bullying or ask for academic assistance.

Callers can even share their experiences.

"The minister will launch the hotline today and any child can call this three-digit number, where experts will immediately address individual complaints," said the spokeswoman.

Preparations are also underway to launch awareness and educational campaigns on the hotline in schools throughout the five governorates.

They will include distribution brochures and leaflets as well as activities and visits to promote the hotline.

The initiative comes after a meeting with the Child International Helpline, which has set up a strategic plan for 2011-2015 that includes the establishment of the hotline.

It allows children to be heard across the world and is an important advocacy tool for child rights and protection. – TradeArabia News Service