A COUNSELLING service has faced an increased number of calls from children who feel worried about coronavirus.

With constant news coverage and disruption caused to their usual routines, Childline - a phone service for children and young people - says many children are feeling stressed and anxious.

It comes as schools across the UK were ordered to close last Friday.

One girl told Childline: “This virus has brought my anxiety up more than anything else in my life.

"Everyone is saying we’re going to die from it, we’re going to run out of food, or we’re going to go into a lockdown.”

As a result, Childline has now given the following advice on how parents can support their children during the outbreak.

Childline spokesperson Emma Motherwell said: "Firstly, you should have a calm, open and informed discussion with your child about what they already know.

"They may have heard or read things in the news or seen information on social media and they may be wondering how this will impact them.

"Before starting this conversation, reassure them you will listen to their concerns and that they will have your full attention.

"When they’ve finished, calmly explain the facts of the situation. You can find these through NHS and World Health Organisation sites, with advice on what we know about the virus and how to help protect yourself from it. It’s important to be honest and tailor what you say to their maturity.

"Finally, Childline is always there to support children and any young person worried about the coronavirus can use Childline’s online message boards to talk to other young people about how they’re feeling. They can also draw pictures and play games to relax and have fun.

"Or they can speak to a trained Childline counsellor for free using the Childline website, or by calling 0800 1111."