UK plans social media restrictions for under-16s

Hafsa Noor

The UK Government is considering new restrictions on social media use for children under the age of 16 in an effort to improve young people’s mental wellbeing and online safety. The initiative, announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has been presented as a significant step towards creating a safer and healthier digital environment for children and teenagers.

Under the proposed policy, users under 16 would not be able to access popular social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, X, YouTube and Reddit. The Government is also reported to be examining the possibility of introducing age-based controls on certain online gaming and live-streaming services.

According to government officials, young people are increasingly exposed to harmful online content, cyberbullying, digital harassment, and excessive screen use. These factors can have a detrimental impact on their mental health, self-esteem and social development. As a result, the Government believe stronger safeguards are necessary to protect children in the digital age.

A number of child welfare and advocacy organisations have welcomed the proposal, arguing that excessive social media use at a young age can contribute to anxiety, emotional distress, and social isolation. Supporters believe the measures could help reduce these risks and encourage healthier online habits.

However, the plan has also sparked debate among technology companies and civil liberties groups. Critics have raised concerns about age-verification systems, user privacy and the practical challenges of enforcing such restrictions. They argue that greater digital education and parental guidance should also play a central role in protecting young users online.

The Government has stated that consultations with stakeholders have now concluded and that all relevant views will be taken into account before the ban is implemented.

Experts suggest that if implemented, the policy could position the United Kingdom as one of the leading countries in child online protection – behind Australia but alongside Austria, Canada, Denmark, France and Spain.