By Osordi Ayomide
The United Kingdom government is weighing the possibility of banning social media access for children under the age of 16, as part of a broader push to tackle rising concerns over online safety and excessive screen time among young users.
The proposal, currently under consultation, was disclosed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who said authorities are exploring stricter regulations on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.
According to him, beyond a potential age-based ban, the government is also reviewing additional safeguards, including app curfews, daily usage limits, and restrictions on algorithm-driven content feeds. These features, he noted, often encourage what he described as “addictive scrolling” behaviour among children and teenagers.
Starmer stressed that addressing these digital habits is just as critical as any outright restriction, pointing out that the design of many platforms can negatively influence how young users interact with content.
The initiative is part of a wider effort by the government to better understand the impact of social media on children’s wellbeing. Key areas under review include sleep disruption, academic performance, and family relationships, amid growing concerns from parents about the long-term effects of online engagement.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall revealed that the consultation process has already attracted tens of thousands of responses, with authorities encouraging more input from parents, teenagers, and families. She noted that feedback is being sought on issues ranging from digital curfews to the influence of AI-powered chatbots and other engaging platform features.
The move comes as several countries intensify efforts to regulate children’s access to social media. Australia has already implemented a ban for users under 16, while nations like Greece and Indonesia have introduced similar restrictions aimed at protecting younger users online.
While no final decision has been reached, the UK government maintains that the outcome of the consultation will play a crucial role in shaping future policies. These may include tighter age limits and new operational guidelines for social media platforms targeting younger audiences.
The proposed measures signal a growing global shift toward stricter digital regulation, as governments seek to balance technological advancement with the safety and wellbeing of younger generations.