The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have announced a new philanthropic project offering support to parents whose children have suffered from the negative effects of social media.

The Parents’ Network is a free, peer-to-peer support service open to people in the US, UK and Canada.

It will offer “crucial support” to parents whose kids have faced “near-fatal harm” or are “managing ongoing mental health difficulties” after using social media – as well as those who have experienced the loss of a child, a press release announcing the initiative said.

In an interview with US news channel CBS, given to promote The Parents’ Network, Prince Harry and Meghan shared how having two children of their own has made them think more about online safety.

“Our kids are young; they’re three and five,” the duchess said of Archie and Lilibet. “They’re amazing. But all you want to do as parents is protect them.

“And so, as we can see what’s happening in the online space, we know that there’s a lot of work to be done there, and we’re just happy to be able to be a part of change for good.”

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Harry added: “At this point, we’ve got to the stage where almost every parent needs to be a first responder.

“And even the best first responders in the world wouldn’t be able to tell the signs of possible suicide. Like, that is the terrifying piece of this.”

The Archewell Foundation has also launched its No Child Lost To Social Media campaign, featuring parents from the pilot scheme, including one couple whose daughter took her own life after being bullied online.

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James Holt, the foundation’s chief executive, said its team has “engaged deeply with parents and young people about the repercussions of social media on their mental, physical, and emotional well-being”.

“It became strikingly clear that there is a critical need for connection and community among those who understand the pain, fear, and isolation caused by social media’s impact on children,” he added.

“We believe in the transformative power of community, and that is why we have created this network-to connect those who face these challenges and offer mutual support.”

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK

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