HALF of young teenagers have a friend who is suffering some sort of harm, yet many keep it a secret rather than tell their parents.

Many teenagers who know another youngster who is experiencing problems such as bullying, ill treatment at home, drug and alcohol abuse, or self-harm, have not told an adult because they don't want to betray their friends' trust, according to an NSPCC survey.

And 42 per cent of teenagers will tell a friend if another is in trouble, but only 20 per cent will tell a parent, while ten per cent won't tell anyone.

Who they turn to depends on the issue. If someone they knew was being bullied more than half of teens would tell a parent, but if another youngster was being sexually abused they would be more likely to talk to a professional.

Whatever the problem, the NSPCC says it is vital children talk to adults, which is why the charity has extended its Someone To Turn To campaign.

The first phase highlighted how children keep worries to themselves, but will now also stress that that secrecy extends to their friends' problems as well.

NSPCC chief executive Mary Marsh says: "It's worrying to learn that for many vulnerable young teens their serious problems remain a secret among friends.

"Talking to a friend can be a good first step in dealing with problems. However, this can place a lot of responsibility on young shoulders and put problems out of the reach of adults who are in a position to help.

"We need to take the secrets out of the playground so young people can get the support and advice they need."

There will be talks to more than 200,000 primary and secondary school pupils, as part of the campaign, as well as Worried? Need To Talk? advice booklets to help secondary school pupils recognise harmful behaviour and find someone to turn to.

The NSPCC is calling on the government to ensure every child has school access to a professionally-supervised peer support scheme, where young people are trained to help each other.

The charity says many children would like to talk to their parents about problems, but find it difficult.

The new campaign will also advise parents on spotting that their child is worried, and how to be the person they turn to.

Signs there could be a problem include a child being unusually clingy, displaying sexually precocious behaviour, or just seeming withdrawn.

If parents do think there is a problem, they should talk to their child, really listen, and reassure them.

"Every child needs to have someone they can turn to," says Marsh. "Someone who will listen, take them seriously and provide suitable advice and support."