A large majority of voters are in favor of implementing an Australia-style prohibition on social media for individuals under the age of 16. This move follows Australia’s recent decision to restrict millions of youths from accessing various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, Twitter (now X), YouTube, Reddit, Kick, and Twitch. According to a poll conducted by Mirror, 64% of respondents support a similar ban for under-16s, while only 19% oppose the idea.
Joani Reid, a Scottish Labour MP and Chair of the Children’s Online Safety APPG, has cautioned government officials that the current approach is failing children. She emphasized the public’s awareness of the detrimental effects of unregulated social media on children and the urgent need for action. Reid highlighted Australia’s proactive measures in safeguarding young people and urged the UK to consider similar actions, framing the potential ban as a means of protection rather than control.
Calls for restricting social media access for teenagers have grown, with advocates like Brianna Ghey’s mother pushing for smartphone bans in schools. Concerns have also been raised by Ian Russell, whose daughter tragically took her own life after exposure to harmful content online. Notably, Children’s Minister Josh MacAlister previously proposed a ban for under-16s through a Private Member’s Bill, although the initiative was later diluted to secure broader governmental support.
Labour MP Jess Asato voiced support for MacAlister’s bill, underscoring the myriad harms associated with unchecked social media use among children, including increased risks of mental health issues, exposure to violent content, and physical health consequences. While opposition leader Keir Starmer has expressed reservations about a ban, the UK government is closely monitoring Australia’s ban implementation.
Asato urged the government to align with global trends in child protection online, citing potential advancements in Malaysia and other European countries. Emphasizing the need for decisive action, she stressed the UK’s position as a leader in online child protection but warned of falling behind without adequate measures like the under-16 ban.
Daisy Greenwell, from Smartphone Free Childhood, echoed public sentiment in favor of regulating social media for children, citing Australia as a model for prioritizing children’s well-being over tech companies’ interests. While the NSPCC acknowledged the benefits of social media for youth, Chief Executive Chris Sherwood cautioned against blanket bans, advocating for targeted measures to protect teenagers without infringing on their rights or driving them to unmonitored online spaces.
In response to public polling, a Government spokesperson clarified that there are no immediate plans for a blanket ban on social media. However, the government remains vigilant about international approaches, particularly Australia’s, and highlighted existing measures under the Online Safety Act to shield minors from harmful online content.
The survey conducted by Deltapoll, involving 1,997 British adults between December 16 and 18, 2025, informed these public sentiments and policy discussions surrounding social media regulation for minors.