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Liverpool City Council has joined forces with experts from education, health, early years, and youth services to create a collaborative strategy that promotes healthy screen use among children and young people throughout the city. This partnership aims to provide families and professionals with practical, clear guidance to navigate the digital landscape responsibly.
On Friday, 1 May 2026, representatives from various local organizations convened to discuss current research on the impact of screens and social media on children’s health, wellbeing, and development. The consensus emphasized the necessity for supporting families, schools, and services with straightforward advice that reflects everyday realities. This discussion comes in the wake of recent government updates, including new national recommendations for screen time in early childhood and a pledge to introduce statutory guidance for schools.
Liverpool City Council is actively interpreting these government guidelines to align them with local needs, focusing on children’s wellbeing while considering family circumstances. Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, shared his perspective: “As a teacher, I’ve seen first‑hand how technology can support learning, creativity and connection, but also how too much or poorly managed screen use can affect children’s behaviour, wellbeing and development.” He further emphasized that parents and carers seek balanced and practical advice rather than being against technology. The council remains committed to collaborating with schools, health partners, and communities to offer non‑judgmental guidance that helps families foster safe and healthy digital habits.
The guidance presented at the event highlights the fact that screen time is not uniform in its effects. Research shows that screen use shared with an engaged adult is much more beneficial for children’s development compared to solitary use; that content which is slow-paced and age-appropriate is preferred; and that screen-based assistive technologies can be critical for children with special educational needs and disabilities. Specifically, it recommends limiting screen time for babies and young children whenever possible. For children under two years old, screen exposure should be avoided except for shared activities that encourage bonding, while children aged two to five should ideally have no more than one hour of screen time daily. Additionally, social media platforms and AI-enabled tools are not suitable for young children and should be avoided altogether.
Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool City Council, also weighed in, stating: “Screens are now an unavoidable part of everyday life, but the evidence is clear that balance matters. Long periods of screen use can displace activities that are critical for healthy development, such as sleep, physical activity, play and face‑to‑face interaction. By working together across Liverpool, we can reduce harm while making sure children benefit from technology in safe, positive ways.” Going forward, the council plans to collaborate further with regional partners to build a shared evidence base and establish common principles for safe screen use. Through consistent messaging across schools, early years settings, and services, Liverpool City Council encourages organizations and professionals citywide to promote healthy screen habits and provide clear, realistic support for parents and carers
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