“Enforcing a ban on children takes away the responsibility on platforms to make social media safer”

Nicola Killean, Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland, said: “We are disappointed that the UK Government has announced today its intention to ban children under the age of 16 from social media. This was a statement from the Prime Minister which spoke to adults only, not to the children and young people who will be most affected by these decisions.  

“As part of the Government’s consultation, we undertook a children’s rights impact assessment which found a social media ban for under-16s would not currently be a proportionate, effective, or enforceable way to protect children’s rights.  

“Evidence shows that social media can expose children to serious risks, including harmful content, cyberbullying, manipulation, contact from strangers, exploitation and excessive use. However, it also shows that social media can play an important role in many children’s lives by supporting communication, self-expression, access to information, participation, play, and connection with communities and support networks.    

“The available evidence does not currently show a blanket ban would make children safer online, and it may inadvertently push children to less regulated or riskier parts of the internet. The proposed ban could impact some groups of children more than others. Children in rural areas, children with family overseas, disabled children, and children who rely on online spaces for identity, support, or community may be particularly affected.     

“Enforcing a ban on children takes away the responsibility on platforms to make social media safer. We want safeguards and the regulation of platforms to be strengthened – and enforced. Platforms must be made to take more accountability in preventing harm – addictive and exploitative features should be the focus. Platforms should change so they are suitable for children, rather than children simply being banned from them. 

“Today’s announcement leaves more questions than answers. We know when a ban will happen, but not how or what it will include. The UK Government must urgently address children and young people directly. With the evidence from Australia showing that the majority of children are still on social media, children need to know that they can report harmful content without repercussions. They must not feel they are to blame and are doing something wrong. There is a real risk now that children will be driven to darker places on the internet and stop talking to adults about what they might see.”