A mother who has campaigned tirelessly for children's online safety since the death of her teenage son fought back tears during an emotional BBC Breakfast interview after receiving an MBE.
A Bittersweet Honour
Ellen Roome, from Cheltenham, appeared on the programme on Tuesday, December 30, following the announcement of her inclusion in the New Year Honours list. She was awarded the MBE for her services to promoting children's online safety, a mission born from profound personal tragedy.
Her 14-year-old son, Jools Sweeney, died three years ago. In 2022, he was found dead in his bedroom. A coroner could not confirm if Jools was in a suicidal state of mind before his death. Ellen believes her son, who engaged in a 'lot of online challenges', may have fallen victim to a dangerous trend like the 'Blackout' challenge, linked to other young people's deaths.
The Fight for 'Jools' Law'
Since her loss, Ellen has been campaigning for legislation known as 'Jools' Law'. This proposed law would grant parents the right to access their deceased child's social media accounts to understand the circumstances surrounding their death. She argues that this digital data is often crucial evidence.
Speaking to presenter Nina Warhurst, an emotional Ellen described the MBE as a 'bittersweet moment'. 'I never started my campaigning for any kind of recognition,' she said. 'It started with wanting answers for my son and then I met all these other bereaved parents... All those parents want answers as well and it became a bigger issue.'
A Crucial Legislative Battle
Ellen detailed the ongoing parliamentary efforts to change the law. Her campaign aims to have it made automatic that a child's data is preserved upon their death. 'I really want it automatic, so that when a child dies, that data is preserved. If you don't need it, they don't need it. But, if a parent does, they can hopefully not be in my position now,' she explained.
She revealed that an amendment to the Crime and Policing Bill, which would enact this data preservation, is due to be discussed in the House of Lords in January. 'I know how he died, but as a parent, to try to understand what on earth happened is so important,' Ellen added.
This was not Ellen's first appearance on BBC Breakfast. Earlier in 2024, she spoke with Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt, in a segment where Munchetty became visibly moved, requiring Stayt to step in and continue the interview.
Viewers praised Ellen online, with one writing on X: 'Well done Ellen and I’m so very sorry for your loss.' Another called her award 'deserving', noting her 'bravery and fortitude'.
The New Year Honours also saw actor and campaigner Idris Elba receive a knighthood for his services to young people and his work against knife crime. Ice skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean were also made a Dame and a Knight respectively.
