Dad of tragic teen Molly Russell awarded MBE for online safety campaign
Ian Russell, father of Molly Russell who took her own life in 2017 after harmful online content, has been honoured with an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list. At 60, Ian has been recognised for his tireless work protecting children online.
From heartbreak to campaigner
Molly, just 14, from Harrow, NW London, died after battling depression worsened by graphic social media content. A coroner’s inquest last September exposed how damaging online material, pushed by addictive algorithms, contributed to her death.
“I believe social media helped kill my daughter,” Ian told the court.
Molly Rose Foundation drives change
Ian founded the Molly Rose Foundation, a suicide prevention charity, in his daughter’s memory. The foundation recently slammed platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest for failing to tackle self-harm content.
- Offering support and training to schools and child services
- Building a UK-wide network of support centres
- Campaigning for stronger online safety laws, including the Online Safety Bill
Ian said the MBE isn’t just for him but for everyone fighting to keep kids safe online: “By accepting this honour, we hope to save more lives.”
Speak up on mental health, says Ian
He stresses open conversations on online safety, mental health, and suicide prevention are vital to stop tragedies like Molly’s.
If you’re struggling or need to talk, contact the Samaritans free 24/7 on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.
