A CHARITY has reported a surge in demand for its services as young people struggle amid soaring cyberbullying.

Children First, which offers practical, emotional and financial support to children and families across Scotland, has supported 17,283 children over the last year — 968 more than the previous year — with 59 per cent experiencing challenges related to their mental and emotional health.

The data comes after a recent survey by the charity found that young people identified online harms as the number one threat they face. 

Children First’s chief executive Mary Glasgow noted that families were “finding it tough to make ends meet, to support their children to go to school, stay safe in their communities and avoid online abuse and exploitation.”

She said: “Violent and sexualised content, as well as online abuse and bullying, is having an ever-increasing impact on children and young people’s mental health, leaving many frightened and anxious.

“Without support to recover, the effects can be devastating. Young people are telling us they are not safe online and that they need adults to protect them. 

“Scotland’s children need us all to take urgent action.”