Arsenal dedicate Spurs match to Childline

Last updated : 06 November 2003 By Chris Parry
Initiatives include a 50p donation from all match day programmes sold, raffles, a penalty shoot out and a text to win competition with three fantastic prizes including a trip for two to our state of the art training ground.

The day also seeks to help publicise the recently launched ChildLine campaign, Boys Allowed. Boys Allowed, a six month campaign, aims to reach boys and young men with the message that it's okay to admit when you have problems and to ask for help.

Ashley Cole said of ChildLine's Boys Allowed campaign: ‘Like a lot of lads sometimes I find it easier to stay quiet when something's bothering me - but I know I often feel a lot better if I do talk about it. It takes a lot of bottle for boys to admit they need help - so please don't bottle it up. And remember you can always give ChildLine a call – that way you can stay in control while you get help sorting things out.'

Sol Campbell added: ‘A lot of lads don't like to admit they need help but speaking to someone – like ChildLine - doesn't mean you can't handle yourself and it could be the first step on the way to sorting things out.'

Thierry Henry said: ‘If I am having a bad game I know the team will encourage me and help to get me back on form. Keeping things to yourself can just make the problem worse. So it's important that boys are OK about talking to each other, their families or to ChildLine if they have a problem and need help with sorting things out.'

Commenting on ChildLine Day, Keith Edelman said, “We are delighted to be able to use the platform of a high profile match day to help benefit such a worthwhile cause and hope that supporters get involved and offer their support.”

For more information on Arsenal's partnership with ChildLine or the Boys Allowed campaign, please visit www.arsenal.com or www.childline.org.uk ChildLine is the UK's free, 24 hour helpline for children and young people. The number to call is 0800 1111. Lack of funds mean that lines can be busy but ChildLine advises children to keep trying and they will get through.