Leeds mum reaches out to stressed school children

As schoolchildren across Leeds prepare to sit their exams - a Gildersome mum whose son took his own life is sharing his story tonight in the hope others feeling the same way will seek help.

Emma Oliver's son Daniel Long was 15 when he developed acute anxiety whilst revising for his mock GCSEs.

A year on, Emma is holding a talk for other parents and pupils where she will urge them to seek help if they are struggling.

She has enlisted the help of an occupational therapist and a counsellor from Leeds Marketplace who will give tips and advice on how to handle exam stress.

It comes after we told you about a new survey 8 in 10 mums and dads think their children are under too much pressure at school, but more than half don't know how to help.

The government insists vigorous exams are vital but not designed to create anxiety – and says £300 million is being invested in mental health support in schools.

But Emma believes children are coming under too much pressure:

“I wouldn’t want another family to go through what I’ve been through,” she says.

“Because it doesn’t get any easier. You just survive the days. Statistics show 200 school children take their life every year. And Daniel is one of them, and that really upsets me.”

Emma’s talk will be held at Morley Town Hall at 7pm and is open to all students.