UK Government Considers Social Media Ban for Under 16s

The UK government launched a consultation on a potential ban on social media for individuals under the age of 16, aiming to address concerns about the well-being of young people. The proposed ban follows similar measures implemented in Australia in December 2025 and has ignited debate regarding online safety and its potential impact on youth.

The consultation is part of a broader package of measures intended to safeguard young people. As part of the package, England's education inspectorate, Ofsted, will be empowered to assess school policies on phone usage during inspections. Ministers expressed their expectation that schools will adopt a "phone-free by default" approach.

The potential ban has sparked varied reactions. While some experts and children's charities have expressed reservations, there is strong support for measures that protect vulnerable youth. The debate also considers the need to balance protection with the importance of online connection, particularly in light of cases like that of Brianna Ghey.

The government is currently seeking views on the proposed ban, considering the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a measure. The consultation aims to gather diverse perspectives to inform the decision-making process. The outcome of the consultation will determine the next steps in addressing social media use among young people in the UK.