Teen Harm Concern Over Web List

Police and social workers investigating teenage suicides have visited homes in County Armagh after material was published on the internet.

BBC News understands the names of some people who have taken their own lives are included on a list.

In a statement, police and Southern Health and Social Care Trust said that the material “could make some vulnerable young people feel at risk”.

“A number have been visited with advice on personal and internet safety.”

It is understood the visits, which have taken place over recent days, have centred around the Armagh City area.

Thursday’s statement also said: “Young people represent our future. It is the responsibility of everyone in society to try to keep them safe.

“This is particularly the case with regard to self harm. Young people also have a responsibility in helping to keep themselves and their friends safe.

“Police and social workers will do all that we can to support them in this.”

There have been a number of suicides in County Armagh in recent months.

In June three 15-year-old boys, who were all pupils at Craigavon Senior High School and from the Laurelvale and Tandragee area, took their own lives within three weeks of each other. A teenager in Armagh City took his own life last week.

After the trio of suicides, psychologist Dr Arthur Cassidy who was working with young people in the area, said he believed there was a suicide pact in operation.

However, local clergyman Reverend Brian Harper said while there was no explanation for what had happened, he did not think there had been a suicide pact and that such rumours were unhelpful.