Reminder not to publicise alarming online challenges or circulate warnings
Wednesday 15th July 2020
Recently there have been a number of media stories about online games and challenges which are suggesting links to suicidal behaviour.
Please be assured that there is currently no verified evidence linking these to suicides in the UK.
We are concerned that this type of alarmist sensational press reporting is likely to create panic and further highlight unhelpful online content.
Please see the attached guidance, we would be grateful if you would share this with all communications colleagues in your organisation.
Public Health England and the Samaritans have previously prepared a briefing to use in these cases (see attached).
It highlights the lack of evidence and focuses on the importance of responsible information sharing. Well-meaning circulation of information in these cases can often just heighten the risk of further misinformation and potential contagion.
You will note that we do not give the name of challenge. Our hope being that if people receive the briefing they will be reassured if queries come through, rather than actively encouraged to seek out further information if they had previously been unaware.
