London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce plans to restrict access to certain social media platforms for children under the age of 16 as part of a broader effort to strengthen online safety protections for young people.
According to reports, the proposed measures would target platforms considered harmful to children while still allowing access to safer forms of social media. The move follows growing concerns about the impact of online content on children’s mental health, wellbeing and safety.
The decision is said to have been influenced by discussions with bereaved families and international examples, including Australia, which introduced a social media ban for under-16s in late 2025. Several other European countries are also considering stricter rules aimed at limiting children’s exposure to harmful online environments.
While details of the policy have yet to be formally announced, the UK government has been examining a range of options through a recent consultation process. Proposed measures have included social media curfews, limits on screen time and restrictions on platform features designed to encourage prolonged engagement among young users.
Government officials have indicated that protecting children online remains a priority and that technology companies must take greater responsibility for the content and experiences they provide to younger audiences. Existing UK online safety laws already require platforms to take steps to shield children from illegal and harmful material.
Experts remain divided on whether a complete ban would be the most effective solution. Some argue that stronger regulation and age-appropriate safeguards could provide better protection, while others believe stricter restrictions are necessary to address growing concerns about online harms.
The government is also expected to outline additional measures aimed at tackling online exploitation, including efforts to prevent children from creating or sharing sexualised images that can later be used in sextortion and other forms of abuse.
The proposed restrictions reflect a wider global trend as governments seek to balance the benefits of digital technology with concerns about its impact on young people’s mental health, privacy and online safety. Any future policy is likely to face close scrutiny from technology companies, child protection groups and digital rights advocates.
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