The Government has assured the public of forthcoming new regulations aimed at limiting children’s access to social media following a contentious debate. Education Minister Olivia Bailey has committed to implementing age or functionality restrictions amid growing calls to restrict platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat for under-16s.
The move comes after Esther Ghey, the mother of Brianna Ghey, a teenager tragically killed by peers in 2023, urged lawmakers to consider Australia’s prohibition of social media for minors. Despite the ban in Australia, a survey revealed that three in five children aged 12 to 15 still manage to access restricted online accounts.
Ms. Ghey emphasized the need for prompt action in the UK, citing her daughter’s excessive phone use and engagement in potentially unsafe online activities. She highlighted the unsuitability of platforms like Snapchat for minors under 18. The Government, while initially hesitant to impose a complete ban, is now leaning towards implementing some form of restrictions, emphasizing the importance of creating effective and enduring measures.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson expressed concerns about the online exposure and addictive nature of social media among young individuals, signaling a commitment to address these issues. The proposed restrictions have garnered support from various stakeholders, including Tory shadow education secretary Laura Trott, who views them as a significant stride towards safeguarding children and aiding parents in managing screen time effectively.
The government’s consultation on technology access for under-16s, including potential age restrictions on social media and gaming platforms, aligns with these efforts. The decision to raise the age limit to 16 for harmful social media features has been lauded as a pivotal advancement in online safety for children. Campaigners, bereaved parents, and advocacy groups have advocated for swift implementation of these measures to shield young users from the detrimental impacts of unregulated online content.
