Same Difference blast 'X Factor' support

Same Difference singer Sarah Smith has criticised The X Factor for not providing adequate after-show support for contestants.

The 21-year-old, who came second in the 2007 contest with brother Sean, said that the period directly after the series' end leaves performers vulnerable.

She told The Sun: "When you've just been in the public eye so much, that's when you need help. It was just crazy for us.

"It's something The X Factor should look in to, the protection in the week or so afterwards when the attention's at its highest."

The X Factor has reportedly identified that this year's Cher Lloyd may need extra care to deal with the pressures of the competition. Earlier in the series, producers axed single mum Shirlena Johnson after fears were raised for her mental health.