TOP 5 TIPS FOR SCHOOLIES
Kids Helpline, Australia’s only 24/7 national children’s counselling service, is once again gearing up for the annual calls from teenagers attending Schoolies celebrations.
Kids Helpline General Manager Wendy Protheroe said they are reaching out to give school leavers their top five tips for how to stay safe during the annual migration to coastal areas.
“Kids Helpline is available 24/7 to all Schoolies during their celebrations, particularly if they feel like they can’t speak to their friends or call their parents; we are there to be the next point of call.”
KIDS HELPLINE TOP 5 TIPS FOR SCHOOLIES
1. Your friends are your best chance of staying safe at schoolies. Always be near at least one person you can trust and let your friends know where you are going at all times.
2. Stay in well-lit areas and be aware of where you are and of who is around you. Large crowds and new places often catch us unaware and being seen is often the first step to staying safe.
3. Eat well and stay hydrated. Be sure to manage your money so that you can always buy a healthy meal, or prepare beforehand and take some with you.
4. Be aware of social media. Remember, this is the end of your school life but the beginning of a new life. Inappropriate photos and videos can and will be shared and no-one wants a job opportunity put at risk because of something you could have managed better.
5. Get to know where your support services are just in case you need them. Such as Kids Helpline, police, security, and hotel staff.
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only national 24/7 counselling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 to 25 years. www.kidshelp.com.au or free call 1800 55 1800.
