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'Keeley needed love and support - she was exploited for TikTok likes'

TikTok A young woman in a pink coat and brown hair tied back looks off camera.TikTok
TikTok personality 'Sheffield Keeley', who often sang in videos, has died in Sheffield city centre

The head of a homelessness charity has accused social media users of "exploiting" a vulnerable woman for entertainment before her death.

Known online as "Sheffield Keeley", she had become well-known for dancing and singing in TikTok videos filmed by members of the public before her death aged 34 this week.

Tim Renshaw, chief executive of the South Yorkshire city's Archer Project, said of the videos seen millions of times: "Just for likes, that's what it comes down to. They exploited her just for likes."

"She was given money to be on social media, to swim in fountains in the middle of winter or dance in an inebriated state like a performing clown," he added.

Simon Thake A grey haired man with black glasses stands outside wearing a blue v neck jumper.Simon Thake
Tim Renshaw, CEO of homeless charity The Archer Project, says social media users exploited Keeley 'for likes'

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Renshaw explained that Keeley was a "hugely vulnerable character".

"She needed alcohol every day, she could not say no to that source.

"The voyeurism is what I'm most offended by, people filming saying how wonderful she is but they valued her for her entertainment factor, not as a human being.

"She needed love and support, not someone taking videos and posting them online."

In the social media clips, Keeley appears to be under the influence of alcohol while singing.

Mr Renshaw added that social media companies "can be a source of joy" but should "take responsibility" for their content.

"It is obvious that some vulnerabilities are ridiculed, whether that's scantily dressed Friday night revellers being filmed inadvertently flashing their underwear, or someone more obviously incapacitated through drink and drugs.

"I also think reportage and ridicule are relatively easy to distinguish. But platforms thrive on watchable content."

  • If you have been affected by issues raised in this report you can find more help and support via the BBC Action Line.

South Yorkshire Police confirmed that a 34-year-old woman had been found unconscious on Arundel Gate before news of the death broke.

The force has also arrested a 47-year-old woman on suspicion of administering a noxious substance.

She has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

The BBC has approached TikTok for comment.

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