‘Teach kids of 4 about suicide’

SIX hundred pigs have been released into the New Forest to hoover up fallen acorns that can make ponies and cattle ill.

They are to be taught how to talk about their concerns and spot when others are at risk.

Figures released last week showed some of the highest suicide rates on record for 10 to 14-year-olds.

They came as Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson was praised for an “inspiring” documentary highlighting the issue.

A Department of Education insider said the lessons could start next year.

They said: “The Government know they need to do something drastic because things are getting desperate.

“The thinking is, if we get kids young enough, they will be more open to talking about issues and facing them.”

Age-appropriate classes will cover topics including fear of starting school, making new friends, exam stress, social media bullying and trolling.

In the BBC’s Odd One Out singer Jesy, 28, told how trolls led her to attempt suicide.

She spoke of becoming “obsessed” with reading negative comments about herself.

Pupils will also learn about the act of suicide and its impact on those around them.

Every school will have a mental health ambassador and youngsters will be told about outside organisations they can contact for help. The insider went on: “Teachers will be encouraged not to shy away from talking about how and why people kill themselves.

“And they will especially look into how it affects loved ones afterwards.” The Office for National Statistics figures showed five children aged 10 to

14 committed suicide between January and June this year.

In the same period, 93 aged

15 to 19 took their lives. In comparison in 2017, three

10 to 14-year-olds killed themselves in the same time period, and 71 aged 15 to 19.

Statistics released for 2018 showed suicide rates among teenagers have almost doubled in just eight years.

The DoE said: “Early intervention is vital. We are training a new dedicated mental health workforce for schools and colleges. The first 25 trailblazer areas have been identified and 59 teams will be up and running at the end of the year.”