ACCRINGTON born actress Julie Hesmondhalgh will be joined by a host of fellow celebrities for North West-based suicide prevention charity PAPYRUS’ Bedtime Stories campaign.

The charity says the campaign’s hard-hitting films, which will be narrated by the celebrities, are designed to raise awareness of the impact online bullying and dangerous content can have on children and young people.

Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh will be joined by critically-acclaimed actor Michael Sheen OBE, former Love Island star Anton Danyluk and actress and author and singer-songwriter Carrie Hope-Fletcher on the project.

Ms Hesmondhalgh said: “Having met some of the families who have lost children and young people to suicide, I feel very honoured to be part of this eye-catching and original campaign.

“As anyone who works in the mental health field will tell you that awareness is key, knowing how to see the signs in those around you, but also knowing where to seek help and how to talk to people who are struggling.”

“In these extremely challenging times, organisations like PAPYRUS are needed more than ever.”

Michael Sheen, star of The Damned United, Frost/Nixon and various other hit films echoed these sentiments.

He said: “I’m incredibly proud to be part of the campaign, which highlights the very real dangers that young people face in our increasingly digital world.

“Bedtime Stories speaks to those with young children, or indeed young people in their lives, raising awareness of how the online environment can impact on the mental health of those using it and reminds them that PAPYRUS is here for them, should they need help and support.”

The four films share the same backdrop; a welcoming and seemingly safe bedroom.

Each story begins softly but these are bedtime stories with-a-twist, dark tales which warn of hidden dangers.

Ged Flynn, Chief Executive of Warrington-based PAPYRUS , said: “We are so grateful to Michael, Julie, Anton and Carrie for lending their star qualities and unique personalities to deliver what is a very powerful campaign.

“The Bedtime Stories were written to provoke a reaction, particularly among parents. We want them to think ‘what does my child read before going to bed and before they go to sleep?’

“Are they reading hurtful text messages on their phone? Maybe they are looking at something inappropriate, upsetting and harmful on social media? As they close their eyes are they feeling hurt, scared, sad or overwhelmed?”

To find out more about Bedtime Stories, visit: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/bedtime-stories/.

For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org.