The United Kingdom is considering a potential ban on social media use for children under 16, as part of efforts to improve online safety and reduce excessive screen time.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the proposal forms part of broader discussions on regulating digital platforms used by young people.
Proposed Ban for Under-16s
The UK government is currently consulting on whether to introduce a full ban on social media for users below the age of 16.
The proposal targets popular platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, which are widely used by teenagers.
Officials say the move aims to better protect children from harmful online experiences.
Meanwhile, Starmer raised concerns about the impact of social media on young users.
He highlighted issues such as addictive scrolling, which he said is driven by algorithm-based content feeds. According to him, these features can negatively affect children’s behaviour and well-being.
The government also wants to assess how social media use influences sleep, education, and family life.
Additional Measures Under Review
In addition to a possible ban, authorities are considering other restrictions.
These include:
- App curfews to limit usage at certain hours
- Time limits on daily screen use
- Controls on algorithm-driven content
Officials believe these measures could reduce harmful digital habits among young users.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the government has received tens of thousands of responses so far.
She encouraged parents, teenagers, and families to share their views. The consultation also covers issues such as AI chatbots and online safety tools.
The feedback will help shape the final policy.
The UK’s move reflects a growing global trend.
Countries like Australia have already introduced bans on social media use for under-16s. Others, including Greece and Indonesia, have implemented similar restrictions.
These measures highlight increasing concern about the impact of digital platforms on young people.
However, the UK government has not made a final decision.
Officials say the consultation process will determine whether stricter age limits or other regulations should be introduced.
The debate signals a major shift in how governments approach children’s use of social media.
If implemented, the policy could significantly reshape how young people access digital platforms in the UK.
UK considers banning social media use for under-16s as government reviews online safety, screen time, and digital behaviour.
