Father shares final pictures of daughter who killed herself after suffering years of homophobic abuse

A grieving father has shared harrowing pictures of his daughter taken moments before she died in hospital after suffering years of homophobic bullying 16-year-old Julia Derbyshire attempted to hang herself in October 2015 after suffering a campaign of abuse from her peers after coming out as gay at the age of 12. She was rushed to hospital after being found by her father Adrian at their home in Cheshire, where she was placed on a ventilator. However, it was too late to save her and after five days the decision was made to turn off her life support. This week, on what would have marked Julia's 18th birthday, her father has shared pictures of his daughter taken in hospital during her final days to help raise awareness of the damage that bullying can cause. He has started a campaign to offer "support against self harm and suicide" - referred to as 'Sassy'. Posting the photos on Facebook, Adrian said: "I can't tell you all how I feel as I've gone past the line of devastation and loss but this devastating story of a beautiful young woman who had given up on herself and life due to others needs to be heard. Bullying is a serious issue. If you or someone you know needs support the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123 or visit their website.  Childline can also give advice and support on bullying and cyberbullying through the freephone number 0800 1111, or send an email, have a 1-2-1 chat. More stories: Disney’s most memorable coded gay characters Grindr releases its own range of emojis