UK Safer Internet Centre Statement on the Social Media Ban for Under-16s

The UK Safer Internet Centre recognises the Government’s commitment to improving children’s safety and welcomes the focus on addressing the risks young people face online.

We agree that change is needed. Every day, through our work with children, families, schools and professionals, we see both the significant opportunities and the very real harms that exist online.

However, we do not believe that a blanket ban on social media for under-16s, in isolation, will achieve the intended outcomes. The online environment is complex and constantly evolving, and there is a clear risk that restricting access alone may lead some young people to move to less regulated spaces, where harms may be harder to identify and address.

We are also mindful of the importance of ensuring that children and young people continue to benefit from the positive aspects of being online, including connection, creativity and access to support. Any approach must carefully balance protection from harm with the positive opportunities that the internet can provide.

We believe that lasting change will come through a comprehensive, system-wide response. This includes strengthening safety-by-design, improving platform accountability, and ensuring that robust age assurance and safer default features are in place. Alongside this, continued investment in education, awareness and support for children, families and professionals remains essential.

While we have concerns about aspects of the proposed approach, we are committed to working collaboratively with Government, industry and partners across the sector to support its implementation and to help ensure the best possible outcomes for children and young people.
It is essential that this policy forms part of a broader, ongoing effort to create a safer and more positive online environment.