Children’s problems didn’t take a break

The National Helpline for Children SOS 1056 handled 49,818 calls, 432 serious reports of abuse and neglect, 345 incidents of suicidal ideation and self-harm, and 138 missing persons cases during the summer of 2026

For yet another summer, “The Smile of the Child” remained on duty around the clock, 24 hours a day, standing by every child who was in danger, who faced abuse or neglect, or who needed immediate support and assistance.

From June 1 through August 31, 2026, in addition to all of its services and initiatives, “The Smile of the Child,” through the National Helpline for Children SOS 1056, was on the front lines protecting and supporting children and families who faced critical and extremely difficult situations.

In just three months:

• The National SOS Children’s Helpline 1056 handled 49,818 calls, an average of 554 calls per day.
• “The Smile of the Child” handled 432 reports—5 per day—of serious cases of child abuse and neglect. The relevant police and prosecutorial authorities were notified of these reports, while all necessary support was provided to the children involved.
• The helpline handled 345 cases of suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-harm. In 181 of these cases, the Hellenice Police’s Cybercrime Unit was notified and asked to assist, where deemed necessary.
•  “The Smile of the Child” handled 138 cases of missing children and adults—that is, 3 cases every two days. In some of these cases, the Missing Alert Hellas and Amber Alert Hellas systems were activated, helping to immediately mobilize the relevant authorities and the public.
• 91 children—one child every day—received support following extremely traumatic and distressing experiences, such as accidental death, domestic violence, the death of a child or parent, suicide, or the murder of a child.

Behind every number is a child who was in danger and needed help

This summer’s statistics reflect a reality that knows no seasons, vacations, or holidays: when a child is in danger, the need for immediate intervention cannot wait.

The National Helpline for Children SOS 1056 operates around the clock, providing immediate support, guidance, and case management for issues related to children’s safety, protection, and mental health.

“The Smile of the Child” continues to stand by every child and every family in need of help, with the goal of ensuring that no child is left alone to face a critical or dangerous situation.

Because for a child in danger, every minute counts. And “The Smile of the Child” is there.