Love Island stars will be offered therapy, social media training and financial management advice, after producers were criticised for the lack of aftercare on offer.

The reality show bosses had been accused of failing to protect its contestants following the death of Mike Thalassitis, who was in series three of the hit ITV2 show.

Former contestants have hit out at the show for failing to protect those who struggle to cope after becoming famous overnight.

ITV has introduced new safeguards following the deaths of former Ebbsfleet United and Margate footballer Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon, a contestant on the programme's second series.

The broadcaster said support will be offered to all stars and not just those who reach out for help.

As touching tributes for the ex-Margate and Ebbsfleet player were shared, friend and fellow reality star Jonny Mitchell hit out at ITV on their lack of support to contestants.

He set up a petition which branded the situation 'toxic' and called for more aftercare.

In response ITV has confirmed Love Island stars will be offered therapy, social media training and financial management advice, following a review.

Love Island Spokesman Justin Jeffreys said: "We have had requests for help from former Islanders, and have provided this.

"We have always recognised that this should be an evolving process and six months ago we engaged Dr Paul Litchfield, an experienced physician and a Chief Medical Officer, to independently review our medical processes on Love Island.

"He has extensive experience of working with large companies and Government in the area of mental health.

"This review has led us to extend our support processes to offer therapy to all Islanders and not only those that reach out to us.

"And we will be delivering bespoke training to all future Islanders to include social media and financial management.

"The key focus will be for us to no longer be reliant on the islanders asking us for support but for us to proactively check in with them on a regular basis."

When each Islander to leaves the show, they series of debrief meetings with the executive and medical team.

They are told how to access after care support, information on seeking professional representation.

As the contestants have no contact with the outside world the press team will immediately brief and advise them on their press coverage whilst in the villa.

ITV also confirmed before being selected for the show, cast members are assessed by an independent GP and a psychological consultant, according to the show's bosses.

The medical team also contacts each Islander’s GP to check they feel that person is able to take part and asks for full disclosure from potential cast members.

Throughout their time in the Love Island Villa, contestants are monitored by an on site medical team, which includes a psychological consultant.

Mr Jeffreys added: "Everyone at Love Island is so shocked and absolutely devastated with the tragic news of Mike Thalassitis.

"The Mike we knew was a remarkable and charismatic young man who made a huge impression both on the Love Island team and on viewers of the show.

"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family and friends at this difficult time. "

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact the Samaritans helpline 24 hours a day on 116 123.

Kent County Council's Release the Pressure campaign can also offer support - call 0800 1070160 or visit releasethepressure.uk for more information.