Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne Pinnock calls for under-16s social media ban after witnessing ‘hardcore, toxic trolling’ – following ex-bandmate Jesy Nelson’s suicide attempt over online abuse

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Leigh-Anne Pinnock from the group Little Mix supports the growing movement to ban social media for anyone under the age of 16, especially with the increasing problem of online harassment and abuse.

The 34-year-old singer discussed her experiences with online negativity during an appearance on BBC Breakfast Tuesday. She described a growing trend of ‘hardcore toxicity’ on social media, explaining that online trolling and bullying are becoming more common and that ‘people are out for blood’.

After Little Mix was created in 2011, the group faced a lot of negativity online, especially directed at Jesy Nelson. She revealed that online harassment led to a suicide attempt, and she later left the group in 2020.

Leigh-Anne, having seen abuse firsthand, expressed her support for a ban, telling Sally Nugent and Jon Kay, ‘Yes, I believe it should be banned for those under 16.’

I’ve definitely noticed how toxic things can get online. It’s really intense, and people feel empowered to say whatever they want because they’re hiding behind their screens.

As a lifestyle expert, I’ve been following the recent developments regarding social media and our kids, and I’m pleased to share that the House of Lords recently approved a plan to prevent anyone under 16 in the UK from joining these platforms. I know Leigh-Anne is in full support of this, and honestly, I think it’s a really positive step towards protecting young people online.

Leigh-Anne discussed the challenges of being online, emphasizing the importance of having a strong support system – people who believe in you, understand your goals, and truly ‘get’ you. She also recommends taking regular breaks from social media.

It’s tough to disconnect, and it can feel overwhelming, but trust in yourself, remember your worth, and pursue what you want.

Sally pointed out that while we often discuss the challenges young women face entering the music industry, it’s also important to consider the everyday experiences of girls simply attending school – navigating classrooms filled with both supportive and unkind people.

It’s common for young people to compare themselves to others, both physically and emotionally. Do you think it might be time to limit or even ban social media access for children under 16?

Leigh-Anne supported the decision, which followed a vote last month where 261 voted in favor and 150 opposed. Members of the opposition party in the House of Lords voted to ban something by adding an amendment to a schools bill.

The government hinted at efforts to reverse the amendment in Parliament, even as it continues to consider a possible ban of its own.

As someone who’s followed their journey, it’s been really tough seeing Perrie, Jade, and the rest of Little Mix deal with so much negativity online, especially after everything Jesy went through. It’s heartbreaking to see how trolling can affect people, and they’ve definitely felt the impact.

Before leaving the band in 2019, Jesy Nelson shared in her BBC documentary, Jesy Nelson: Odd One Out, that she had attempted suicide following years of constant online harassment.

Let me tell you, navigating fame can be incredibly tough. I recently shared that things got really dark for me after our win on The X Factor back in 2011. The bullying was intense, and honestly, I reached a point where I attempted to take my own life. Thankfully, my boyfriend at the time was there for me and saved me. It was a really difficult time, and I wanted to share my story in case it could help others who are struggling.

In her documentary, Jesy shared a deeply personal moment, explaining she once felt so overwhelmed that she considered ending her life. She recalled thinking, ‘I just need this to stop.’

I went to the kitchen and took a handful of pills. Then I lay in bed for a long time, wishing for something to happen, wanting it to happen quickly.

According to a source speaking to The Sun, she admitted to her partner what happened, and an ambulance was quickly sent to the scene.

Her family, team member, and fellow Little Mix singers were all deeply upset when they learned the news.

Jesy shared that she decided to talk about her suicide attempt in 2013 to help people understand how damaging online bullying can be, especially for young individuals.

Jesy continued sharing her experiences in the documentary, saying, ‘I just kept thinking things weren’t going to work out…’

I feel like I’ll always wake up feeling down, and I don’t see a reason to keep going. The pain has become unbearable.

The film portrays her as deeply affected by past abuse, which significantly impacted her mental health and made it difficult for her to fulfill her obligations to the group.

I always tell people who are going through a tough time in the UK about Samaritans. They’re available 24/7 and completely confidential. You can reach them anytime by calling 116 123, or if you’d prefer to talk in person, you can find your local branch details on their website: www.samaritans.org.

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2026-02-24 19:19