Children's and youth advocacy group appeals for assistance concerning a hotline for minors
In the heart of Bergisch Gladbach, the Kinder- und Jugendtelefon (KJT) – a vital resource for children and young people seeking confidential support – is currently undergoing an expansion phase, driven by a surge in demand for its services.
Established 30 years ago by three dedicated women, the KJT has grown from humble beginnings to become the largest free and anonymous telephone counseling service for young people in Germany. Affiliated with the nationwide hotline "Nummer gegen Kummer" (116 111), it offers daily support from 14:00 to 20:00 hours.
The demand for the KJT's services has risen sharply, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, the team of about 20 advisors handled over 6,000 calls, with topics ranging from bullying and loneliness to relationship problems and experiences of violence. Notably, a quarter of these calls were "intensive counseling conversations."
The increase in demand has led to the expansion of services, including online consultations. However, this growth has also highlighted the urgent need for new volunteer advisors. The German Child Protection Association is actively seeking reinforcement for the KJT team in Bergisch Gladbach.
As trusted individuals, volunteers play a crucial role in providing empathetic listening and support to young callers who often confide exclusively in them. Interested parties should have joy in dealing with children and young people, empathy, patience, and communication skills.
An information event about volunteering at the KJT will be held on September 29th, at 6 PM in the rooms of the Kinderschutzbund, Bensberger Str. 133 (Heidkamp). To register, interested parties should email their contact details and information about age, education, and current activity by August 30th.
The training for new volunteers starts in mid-November and lasts until the end of March 2026. It takes place in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate the schedules of volunteers.
Under the leadership of Dieter Rosenbaum, the KJT in Bergisch Gladbach continues to serve as a beacon of support for children and young people, helping them navigate the emotional and social challenges they face. With the recruitment of new volunteers, the KJT aims to ensure that no child or young person in need of help is left alone.
- The expansion of services at the Kinder- und Jugendtelefon (KJT) in Bergisch Gladbach includes expanding into the realms of education-and-self-development, mental-health, fitness-and-exercise, and health-and-wellness, aiming to provide holistic support for young people.
- As the KJT continues to grow and serve more youth, it emphasizes the importance of volunteering and encourages individuals with a passion for science, education, fitness, and mental health to join the team, contributing to the organization's mission.
- With the addition of new volunteers, the KJT can further its commitment to supporting young people not only in emotional and social spheres but also in empowering them to take charge of their physical and mental wellbeing.
