A MOTHER who says her 15-year-old son has tried to commit suicide six times is pleading for him to be taken into care before he kills himself.

The distraught Bolton mum says she loves her son more than anything else in the world, but wants him in a place where he can be treated for his problems.

The woman, who cannot be identified to protect her son's identity, fears the next suicide attempt could prove fatal and that he is a risk to the rest of the family.

She says her son has been treated at the Royal Bolton Hospital each time for slashed wrists.

He has been examined by a psychologist who says there is nothing wrong with him. But she is adamant Social Services should take action now and help him get better.

She said: "He has a mental problem and it needs to be sorted out. I am not trying to get rid of him, which is what some people might think.

"I just want my son to receive the care he needs before he kills himself. We are all so worried about him.

"I am a genuine, concerned mother who wants my son to be taken into care for his own safety.

"I have his bag packed ready, but when he is better I will welcome him home with open arms - I want to do that more than anything."

The boy was due to be discharged from hospital on Tuesday afternoon but his mother says she refused to pick him up because she didn't want to take him home.

She believes his suicide attempt was first a cry for help. But now she believes it is an addiction because each time he has cut his wrists he wants to do it again.

Difference

She also claims staff at his school have noticed a difference in his mood and behaviour.

She said: "Everyone who knows him can see something is wrong. If only those who don't could too."

A spokesman for Bolton Social Services said they are working closely with the hospital and child mental health services and are offering as much support as possible to the family.

He added: "It is not always in the best interests of a child to separate a family. The issues in this case are complex."

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