Love Island star Dr Alex George has been appointed as a youth mental health ambassador advising the Government.

The A&E doctor, who appeared on the ITV reality programme in 2018, will help to raise the profile of mental health education and wellbeing in schools.

Dr George has been campaigning for better support following the death of his younger brother, Llyr, last year.

The 19-year-old, who was due to attend medical school, killed himself in July after suffering mental health issues.

Downing Street said Dr George would use his clinical expertise and personal experience to help shape policy on improving support for young people in schools, college and universities.

Right now young people need a voice in Government, and I hope that through this role I can advocate for meaningful change in this area

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “Children and young people have heroically adapted to save lives and protect our NHS.

“This has understandably had a huge impact on their mental health, so I want to shine a spotlight on this vital issue ahead of their return to school.

“I’m delighted that Dr Alex George will be working with us as we do everything in our power to improve people’s mental wellbeing.”

Dr George said: “The last year has been unimaginably difficult for all of us, but particularly for young people who have sacrificed so much.

“I am honoured to be appointed for this role where I’ll be working closely with Government to make mental health an absolute priority and hope to have a positive impact on the lives of young people and their education for good.

“Right now young people need a voice in Government, and I hope that through this role I can advocate for meaningful change in this area.”

In January, Dr George said his “number one goal” for 2021 was to “help bring meaningful change to mental health education at schools across the UK”.

He urged his Instagram followers to help him meet the Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet to make it happen.

Dr George will start the unpaid role immediately, working within the Department for Education.