UK Considers Social Media Ban for Under-16s Following Australian Precedent

The UK government launched a consultation on a potential ban on social media for individuals under the age of 16, according to multiple news sources. The move is part of a series of measures aimed at safeguarding young people's well-being.

The consultation was spurred by concerns from parents, Members of Parliament, and the mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey, who have voiced worries about the impact of social media on vulnerable children and the rise of compulsive social media use. The consultation was influenced by a similar ban implemented in Australia in December 2025, which became the world's first social media ban for young people, prompting other countries, including the UK, to consider following suit.

The proposed package also includes granting England's education inspectorate, Ofsted, the authority to assess school policies regarding phone usage during inspections. Ministers expressed their expectation for schools to adopt a "phone-free by default" approach as a result.

The consultation will explore stricter age verification measures. A response to the consultation is expected in the summer.

Some experts and children's charities have cautioned against the idea.