Little Mix explain why they insisted on aftercare for new BBC reality series The Search

'When we won, we weren't even allowed to spend time with our families to celebrate’ said Leigh-Anne Pinnock

Former X Factor winners Little Mix have revealed that they pushed for the inclusion of aftercare on their self-branded reality series.

Little Mix: The Search will see the four-piece girl group attempt to create a new band from talented newcomers.

Talking about the importance of psychological support in the aftermath of reality TV fame, Leigh-Anne Pinnock told Radio Times: “We didn't have that, really, on the show that we came from,” referring to the hit ITV reality contest The X Factor.

Jade Thirdwell said: “We want to make sure that [the contestants are] looked after properly and support them.”

The band’s members have been open about the toll that fame has taken on their mental health in the past.

Jesy Nelson fronted a documentary last year, in which she revealed that cyber-bullying had damaged her self confidence, leading eventually to a suicide attempt.

Pinnock recently spoke out about the racism she had faced, and Perrie Edwards has said that she suffered anxiety and panic attacks.

Pinnock said in the interview: “When we won, we weren't even allowed to spend time with our families to celebrate.”

“There's a lot more awareness now about mental health, but people still just see the pop, the smiles and the stage, and they don't really understand what goes on. I kind of wish there was a lot more help along the way.”

A contestant, Melina, performs on 'Little Mix: The Search' on BBC One (BBC/Modest TV)

Thirlwall said: “We can really be honest with [the contestants] about the things they might go through along the way.”

“[We] have been there and done it and can talk them through it and be a shoulder to cry on - which is so essential. Also in terms of social media, we can talk them through what it takes to grow a thick skin - because as soon as you step into the limelight, you're going to be judged.”

Little Mix: The Search debuts on BBC One tomorrow night (26 September) at 7pm.