The United Kingdom is preparing to introduce a major new rule that would ban children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms. According to reports, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to formally announce the policy in an upcoming speech, marking one of the country’s strongest moves yet to regulate children’s access to online platforms.
The government has been reviewing several options in recent months, but officials now say the decision to proceed with a full ban is close to being finalized. Media reports from outlets including The Guardian and the Financial Times suggest the announcement could come as early as this Monday.
If implemented, the ban would apply to many of the world’s largest social media platforms. These are expected to include services such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), Threads, YouTube, Twitch, and Kick, similar to restrictions already introduced in Australia.
The policy is designed to reduce children’s exposure to harmful online content and limit addictive usage patterns. It also aims to address concerns about cyberbullying, mental health impacts, and exposure to inappropriate material on social platforms.
However, not all digital services would be fully blocked. Gaming apps and other online platforms may still be accessible, but with restrictions placed on certain features. For example, chat functions that allow children to communicate with strangers could be removed or heavily limited to improve safety.
The proposed rules also go further in some areas. Under the plan, users under 18 would not be allowed to access romantic or sexual chatbots. The government is also considering measures to discourage late-night scrolling among young users, aiming to promote healthier screen habits.
Officials are expected to use existing online safety regulations to enforce parts of the policy, but additional legislation may still be required to fully implement the ban. This suggests that while the announcement may come soon, the full rollout could take time.
The UK is following a growing international trend, with countries like Australia already enforcing similar restrictions. The UK had previously introduced age verification laws aimed at protecting children online, but this new proposal would go further by directly restricting access to entire platforms.
Supporters of the ban argue that stronger action is needed to protect children from harmful online environments. Cases such as the tragic death of teenager Brianna Ghey have been cited by campaigners who believe social media played a role in worsening mental health challenges for young users.
Her mother has publicly supported stricter rules, saying her daughter’s struggles were made worse by harmful online content.
Despite this, critics of social media bans warn that such measures could create new problems. Privacy advocates argue that age verification systems may not be fully reliable and could raise concerns about data security and online anonymity.
Others also believe that banning access entirely may isolate young users rather than solving underlying issues. They argue that education, moderation, and platform accountability may be more effective than outright restrictions.
As the debate continues, the UK’s decision is being closely watched by other governments considering similar policies. If the ban moves forward, it could become one of the most significant social media regulations affecting children in Europe.
