In 2021, Illinois launched “Safe2Help.” It’s a hotline students can use to raise red flags about themselves or friends suffering from bullying or depression.
Since its initial launch four years ago, Illinois students have submitted over 5,000 tips to the service. That’s according to a Freedom of Information Act request by WNIJ.
The state says if students don’t have a trusted adult in their life, they can confidentially send in information online, through text, or an app. It’s then vetted by the Illinois State Police. They can get in touch with local law enforcement or school staff like a social worker.
The service is free for schools to use, and Safe2Help says it’s not meant to be used to suspend or punish students seeking help.
Bullying is the No. 1 concern shared with the platform. And Illinois students have been utilizing the service more and more since its introduction. Just over 500 submissions were received in its first year, that’s up to more than 2,000 in 2024.
