Telecoms giant Vodafone has announced it is to provide €2 million in direct funding for ISPCC Childline.

It is part of a major five-year partnership with the Vodafone Foundation.

The partnership will also provide a commitment to covering the call costs for the Childline service for 10 years, until 2026.

The funding will also be used to update Childline's technologies and service infrastructure - to modernise and broaden out access to the service.

It will offer additional resources, including Vodafone's 'Be Strong Online' Programme, to support children and parents through issues they face in the digital society.

In 2014, ISPCC's support service for children and young people responded to almost 500,000 calls and online contacts.

Over the last 10 years, Childline has experienced a 75% increase in children seeking support online.

"Through this new partnership, with Vodafon's support, the charity will now be in a position to develop a new total communications infrastructure which will improve children's access to Childline and provide a 24 online digital platform", the ISPCC says in a statement.

ISPCC Childline chief executive, Grainia Long, said: "I'm thrilled that ISPCC Childline will be working with Vodafone to help keep children safe. For every child who reaches us, there are many more who cannot".

"From today, this partnership will enable us to give every child the connection they need, when and where they need it most".

And Ray Collins, Vodafone Ireland director of strategy, added: "We are delighted to be partnering with Childline and are looking forward to working with them to transform their unique and invaluable service".

"Life is challenging for young people and children today. Together we want to ensure that when children reach out for help, they can connect with Childline in whatever way they choose, via a call or a text or an instant message".