A Little Lonely Llama is a child who comes from a home affected by domestic conflict or abuse, often feeling scared, confused, and alone. These children are in need of protection, understanding, and a safe space where they can feel valued and supported. At Lonely Llama, we recognize their vulnerability and strive to provide the help and care they deserve, guiding them towards brighter futures. With your support, we can offer them a path to safety, healing, and hope, ensuring that no Little Llama has to face life’s toughest challenges without a helping hand.
"If we don't stand up for children, then we don't stand for much." – Marian Wright Edelman
Understanding Abuse and Knowing It’s Not Your Fault.
1. What Is Abuse?
Abuse is any action that hurts someone physically, emotionally, or mentally. It can happen in different ways:
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Physical Abuse – When someone causes harm by hitting, pushing, or hurting your body.
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Emotional Abuse – When someone says mean or hurtful things to make you feel bad, scared, or ashamed.
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Neglect – When a person who’s supposed to take care of you doesn’t provide what you need, like food, a safe place, or medical care.
If someone is making you feel sad, afraid, or unsafe, that’s not okay—and it’s not something you should have to face alone.
3. Steps You Can Take to Get Help
If you’re dealing with abuse or feel unsafe, reaching out for support can make a difference. Here are some steps you can take:
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Talk to a Trusted Adult – This could be a teacher, school counsellor, a family member, or a family friend. These people can listen and help you figure out what to do next.
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Contact a Helpline – Helplines are there for young people who need someone to talk to. They won’t judge you, and you can share as much or as little as you want.
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Childline (0800 1111) – Available 24/7 in the UK, this helpline is free and confidential.
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Plan for Your Safety – If you’re ever in a situation where you feel threatened, try to leave the area if you can and go to a safe place, like a friend’s or relative’s home. Have an adult you trust in mind who can help in emergencies.
If you or someone you know is facing challenges at home and needs support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us directly through our Contact Us page or on our Lonely Llama Facebook page—we’re here to listen and help.
2. Why It’s Never Your Fault
If you’re in a difficult situation, you might wonder if it’s something you did wrong. The answer is no—it’s not your fault. Sometimes, people who are hurting or unhappy take out their feelings on others, even if it’s not right. Remember:
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You deserve kindness, respect, and safety.
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No one has the right to make you feel afraid or hurt.
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There’s nothing you did to deserve this treatment.
4. You’re Not Alone
It’s okay to ask for help. Many kids and teens go through similar situations, and there are people who understand and want to support you. Taking the first step to share what’s happening can be hard, but each step you take is one toward a safer, happier life.
No matter what, you deserve to feel safe and loved. Remember, there’s always someone ready to listen and help you, so you don’t have to go through this alone.
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Personal
Stories:
This Section is Coming Soon. If you have a personal story you'd be happy to share, then please get in touch. Use the Contact Us Page to contact us about your story.
"Abuse changes your life... Fight back and change the life of your abusers by breaking the cycle." – Patti Feuereisen
Guidance on Seeking Help.
1. Identify Trusted Adults:
Think about adults you feel safe around, like teachers, school counsellors, or family members who listen and care. Look for those who respect your feelings and privacy.
2. Plan What You Want to Say:
Writing down your thoughts can help. Start with how you’re feeling or any specific worries you have. You can say something like, “I feel unsafe sometimes, and I need some help.”
3. Choose a Safe Time and Place:
If possible, talk to them in a quiet, private setting where others won’t overhear. If you’re not sure about privacy, see if you can meet them during a time when it’s quieter, like after school.
4. Start Small if You’re Unsure:
You don’t need to share everything at once. Start by telling them a little bit to see how they respond. You can say, “I’m going through something tough, and I wanted to share a bit with you.”
5. Use Technology if Face-to-Face Feels Risky:
If talking in person isn’t safe, you can email a teacher or use messaging tools provided by your school. Be careful with texting or emailing if someone at home can read your messages.
6. Remember It’s Okay to Ask for Privacy:
Tell your trusted adult if you need them to keep your conversation private unless they believe it’s serious enough to get more help. They’re there to help you find ways to stay safe.
7. Keep Asking Until You Find the Right Support:
If the first person doesn’t understand or help, don’t give up. Sometimes, it takes asking a few people to find the right support, and that’s okay.
If you’re dealing with hard times at home, it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions—sometimes even too many to understand. Your feelings are real, and support is available to help you work through them. Here are some ways to care for your mental health and find help when you need it.
1. Understanding and Expressing Your Feelings
It’s okay to feel sad, scared, confused, or angry. Here are some ways to start managing these emotions safely:
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Write Down Your Thoughts – Journaling can help you express your feelings without fear of judgment.
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Draw or Create Art – Sometimes, pictures or colors can show feelings better than words.
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Talk to a Trusted Friend or Adult – Sharing your feelings can make them seem less overwhelming.
2. Dealing with Trauma
When something painful or scary happens, it can be hard to stop thinking about it. These tips may help:
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Take Deep Breaths – Deep breathing can help you feel calmer when things get stressful.
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Focus on Positive Actions – When you’re ready, doing things you enjoy (like hobbies or sports) can help shift your focus to things that make you feel better.
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Recognize Triggers – Some places, sounds, or situations may remind you of bad experiences. Being aware of them can help you avoid or cope with them.
3. Reaching Out for Professional Support
Talking to a professional can make a big difference. They’re trained to help you manage your feelings and find ways to feel safer. Here’s how to find someone who can help:
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Counselors or School Support – Many schools have counselors who can listen and help. You might also be able to reach them by email or phone if talking in person is difficult.
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Child Psychologists – These are professionals who understand how to help kids and teens with feelings like fear, anger, and sadness, especially in tough situations.
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Abuse-Specialized Support – Some psychologists and counselors specialize in helping kids dealing with tough times at home. They can help you feel heard and support you in ways that keep you safe.
4. Contacts for Counselling Services
If you’re ready to talk to someone outside of your school, here are some places to start:
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Local Youth Helplines – Youth helplines are confidential and can connect you to local mental health services or just listen if you need someone to talk to.
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National Abuse Helplines – In the UK, Childline (0800 1111) offers free, 24-hour support for young people dealing with difficult home situations.
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Online Counselling – Services like Kooth (https://www.kooth.com/) provide free, anonymous online counselling specifically for kids and teens.
You’re not alone, and it’s okay to reach out. There are people who care about you and want to help you feel safe and supported, no matter what’s going on.
"There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way in which it treats its children." – Nelson Mandela
Note: These are external resources provided by trusted organizations. Lonely Llama is not affiliated with these services but supports their mission to help children in need.
Safe Space Resources.
If you’re in a situation where you feel unsafe or need help, there are trusted organizations and helplines available to support you. These groups offer shelter, guidance, and legal help, and they’re here to listen without judgment. Below are some of the most reliable resources:
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Childline
Phone: 0800 1111 (free, confidential, and available 24/7)
Website: Childline
Childline is a free helpline that supports children and young people. You can contact them via phone, web chat, or email. They provide a safe space to talk about anything that’s worrying you, with articles and advice on a range of topics.
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The Hideout (Women’s Aid)
Website: The Hideout
The Hideout provides information for young people experiencing domestic abuse. They offer practical advice and explain what abuse is, why it’s never your fault, and how you can get help.
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NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children)
Phone: 0808 800 5000 (for children and adults concerned about a child)
Website: NSPCC
The NSPCC is dedicated to protecting children and offers a confidential helpline for children or anyone concerned about a child’s well-being. Their website has resources and information on safety, coping with abuse, and knowing your rights.
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Refuge – National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (confidential, 24/7)
Website: Refuge
Refuge supports individuals impacted by domestic violence, including children and teenagers. They can help connect you to safe accommodations, legal resources, and people who can listen and provide guidance.
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YoungMinds
Textline: Text YM to 85258 (available 24/7 for mental health support)
Website: YoungMinds
YoungMinds offers support for young people experiencing mental health challenges. They provide a 24/7 textline and resources to help you understand and manage feelings like stress, anxiety, and trauma.
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Kooth
Website: Kooth
Kooth provides free online counselling and emotional well-being support for children and young people. It’s anonymous, meaning you can share safely, and you’ll find tools to help manage tough feelings and understand what you’re going through.
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Runaway Helpline
Helpline: 116 000 (free, 24/7)
Website: Runaway Helpline
Runaway Helpline offers support to young people who have run away or are thinking about leaving home. They offer phone, text, and online chat options for anyone needing help and guidance.
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Barnardo’s
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Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP)
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Local Council Child Protection Services
Website: Barnardo’s
Barnardo’s provides support for children in tough situations, including those facing family issues, mental health challenges, or abuse. They offer counseling, guidance, and resources to help children find stability and safety.
Website: CEOP
CEOP helps protect children from online harm and abuse. They provide resources for safe online behaviour and allow children to report if something has happened online that makes them feel uncomfortable or scared.
Many local councils in the UK have social services and child protection teams that can provide urgent support and guidance if you feel unsafe at home. You can find your local council’s contact information through the government website or by calling them directly.
Note: These are external resources provided by trusted organizations. Lonely Llama is not affiliated with these services but supports their mission to help children in need.