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The UK government, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, is preparing to implement a ban preventing children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. In addition to restricting access, new rules will prohibit children from livestreaming on platforms deemed “safer,” as well as from communicating with strangers via gaming applications. Discussions are ongoing about introducing social media curfews for young people, although further specifics are not expected until the announcement scheduled for next month.
This proposed policy closely follows Australia’s move in December 2025, which marked the first comprehensive ban on social media for under-16s worldwide. Whitehall insiders have described the UK’s forthcoming strategy as an enhanced version of the Australian model, often referred to as “Australia-plus.” Prime Minister Starmer has framed the initiative as a clear decision in support of families, rejecting a system that has failed to protect children online. “This is a choice about whose side we’re on: families across the country, or a status quo that isn’t working,” he stated, emphasizing his intent to “call time on a system that’s failing our kids.”
The forthcoming restrictions reportedly will expand beyond those in Australia, targeting a total of 10 platforms including TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, Reddit, Twitch, X, Threads, Facebook, and Kick. Additional measures under consideration include social media curfews for older teenagers and limitations on the use of AI chatbots, raising the bar on online protections. Sir Keir stressed the significance of the debate, particularly from a parental perspective, saying, “How we keep kids safe online is one of the biggest debates of our time. As a dad, I know every parent wants their child to grow up safe and happy.” He assured the public that the government is committed to putting children’s welfare first.
The announcement follows a three-month-long public consultation that attracted 116,000 responses, in which a significant majority of parents favored a ban on social media use by those under 16. While 90% supported the ban, over 83% expressed concern that the risks of social media outweighed its benefits. However, some critics argue that broad prohibitions may lead to unintended consequences. Ian Russell, father of Molly Russell who tragically died by suicide after exposure to harmful online content, warned that such bans risk creating a false sense of security and could push children toward less regulated parts of the internet. He also criticized the timing of the policy rollout, suggesting political motives might be influencing a rushed process. Meanwhile, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy underscored that technology companies have had ample time to address these issues and indicated that the debate is now focused on how best to protect children, rather than whether protection is needed. She highlighted that for younger children, the absence of peer presence on social media often naturally deters participation
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