A teenage mum has been investigated by social services after she posted a picture of her six-month-old son with an unlit cigarette in his mouth on the social networking site Facebook.
Rebecca Davey, 18, was reported to the police by concerned friends who saw the picture of her son, Ollie, on her page.
Essex police visited the family home in Southend, but said there were 'no immediate concerns and the matter was referred to social services'.
After the visit from the authorities, Rebecca changed her Facebook status to read: 'Some w***** reported me to the police abwt picture off ollie.'
She went on to write, 'Why Would SomeOne Do That To Me U Ollie No was taking U Yur Mine for lyfee Darlinggg Mummy Loves You :)'
Online friends were quick to offer their support after the picture appeared in the national press. One post on Rebecca's site read, 'Some ppl r nosey f****** aint they!! dw [don't worry] ur a good mum they wont hassle u 4 long!!!'
Head of specialist children's services, Sue Cook, said: 'Police officers visited the family home on Saturday and, although no evidence of criminal wrongdoing emerged, words of advice were given to the parent.'
Social services also visited Ms Davey's home on Saturday and made a second visit on Tuesday.
Ms Cook explained 'The purpose of the visit is to carry out an assessment aimed at ensuring that any child within the household is being appropriately cared for.'
The startling image of little Ollie with his mouth clamped firmly round a cigarette, has sparked fierce debate.
Whilst many argue that the outcry is an over-reaction, there are others who think it's indicative of a modern culture of poor parenting
Was this just a tasteless joke blown out of proportion, or should we be concerned for the child's welfare?