Grieving Brisbane mother’s plea for social media reform after daughter’s tragic suicide following online bullying

The “heartbroken” mother of a 12-year-old girl who took her own life after being bullied on social media has made one simple request following an outpouring of support and donations.

Ella Catley-Crawford, a “bright and quirky 12-year-old”, died in hospital on Saturday, a week after being found unconscious in an apparent suicide.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Mother of Ella Crawford rallies for social media reforms

Her family claims girls at a prestigious Brisbane high school, where Ella had started on an academic scholarship earlier this year, had catfished Ella and shared her images on social media.

Ella’s family spoke out about the bullying in a GoFundMe set up in the wake of her death.

“If you ask if we are angry — yes, we are,” they said.

“If you ask if we are sad — absolutely.

“And if you ask if the system let her down — it did.

“Social media and online presence pose real dangers and, despite our efforts to keep our children safe, technology can become an addictive lifeline, especially when they feel isolated.”

One request

In an update on Wednesday, her mother Julie Crawford thanked “all of the wonderful people who took the time and their hard-earned money to read our beautiful Ella’s story, cut so short”.

“Our hearts are broken and our lives changed forever.”

She said the donations would give Ella a “beautiful funeral” but also contribute towards her medical bills, give the family time to grieve and fund education programs about social media and children.

She then had one request: “If you can write to Snapchat and get them to change some settings to stop bullies and block them.

“We plan to rally the government in Australia for this to help save the lives of our children.”

The school where Ella was allegedly bullied said its students’ well-being remained its highest priority and it was committed to “providing a caring, safe and supportive environment”.

“We have a zero-tolerance policy against bullying, and all students participate in our age-appropriate ... wellbeing program,” it said.

Ella’s family said they will donate 10 per cent of funds raised to suicide prevention initiatives to help others who may be struggling.

“No one should have to endure what Ella did, and we want to honour her memory by making a difference,” they said.

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.