Too many children and young people continue to be exposed to harmful content online. It's encouraging to see the Government recognise that current protections are not enough. However, banning under-16s from social media on its own won't make online spaces safe.
We agree that responsibility for online safety should sit with technology companies, not children, parents and carers. Platforms should prevent and reduce harm, rather than leaving families to manage the risks. But a ban must not become a substitute for removing harmful content. Social media companies still need to meet their duties under the Online Safety Act and show they are taking effective action to prevent harm. Restricting access alone won't make platforms safer.
It's also important to remember that eating disorders can affect people of any age. They don't suddenly stop being a risk at 16. Any long-term approach to online safety should consider the needs of older teenagers and adults too.
Social media can also play a positive role for some young people affected by eating disorders. Online communities can provide support, reduce isolation and help people find recovery-focused information. This can be especially important for those who are waiting for treatment or struggling to access support.
We're concerned that a ban could push some young people towards smaller, less regulated online spaces, where harmful content may be harder to identify and remove. That's why action is needed across the online environment, not just on the largest platforms.
The Government has announced plans to ban social media for under-16s by May 2027.
The proposed ban would apply to platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X. WhatsApp, Signal and YouTube Kids would not be included.
The government has also announced a wider package of measures aimed at improving children's online safety.
These include:
The government has said it will introduce stronger age assurance measures to support compliance and make it harder for children to bypass safeguards.
Adults would still be able to access social media through age checks such as facial recognition, digital IDs, passports and credit cards.
The proposals are expected to be brought before Parliament before Christmas. If approved, the first measures could come into force in spring 2027.
You can read the Government's full fact sheet on the proposals on the Government's website.