CHILDLINE will be offering support to young people worried about exam results as teenagers across the country wait anxiously for AS and A-Level grades published later this week.

The NSPCC-service delivered 1,133 counselling sessions to young people worried about exam results in 2016/17 – a rise of 21 per cent over the last two years.

Of these, more than a quarter - 28 per cent - took place in August 2016 when GCSE and AS/A-Level results are released.

Figures released today also show a sharp rise in the number of Childline counselling sessions with 16 to 18 year olds in 2016/17 - up 68 per cent, across the UK, over the last two years.

Childline volunteers at Wales’ two bases – in Cardiff and Prestatyn – undertook more than 110 counselling sessions with young people from across the UK in 2016/17.

Over the last three years, worries and anxiety about exam results have accounted for over 360 calls and online contacts to Welsh Childline counsellors.

Many young people told counsellors they were disappointed with themselves and worried their grades might affect them getting into the university or college of their choice, while others were concerned about their parent’s reaction to their results.

Anxiety and low mood were also mentioned when discussing exam results, with some saying they were struggling to cope with the pressure to do well and achieve top grades.

Des Mannion, the head of NSPCC Cymru / Wales, said: “Waiting for exam results can be an anxious time for young people and can leave some struggling to cope. Pressure to achieve good grades and worries about securing further education places and jobs can be too much for some to deal with on their own.

“We’d encourage young people not to be disheartened if they do not get the results they hoped for.”

Childline is a free, confidential service, available on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk

“It’s important they remember that they have lots of options and that talking to a friend or trusted adult can really help them see this clearly,” added Mr Mannion.

“Childline is also here 24/7 to listen to any young person worried about their results and needing confidential support and advice.”

Dame Esther Rantzen, Founder and President of Childline said: “Young people need to remember that getting good exam grades is not a make or break moment and, whatever your results, there are options and opportunities to make a great future for yourself.

“This is proved by all the successful people who have made their way in life despite being nowhere near the top of their class.

“The important thing during exam results season is to stick together as a family and be as supportive and encouraging to the person waiting to receive their grades and then planning their next steps.

“And if they are reluctant to open up about how they are feeling or what they want to do then Childline is always ready to provide help and advice.”