A landmark study into the effects of reduced social media use on secondary school pupils has yielded promising results, with over 4,000 students from Bradford reporting improved sleep, concentration, and well-being. The findings come as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer plans to ban social media for under-16s by spring 2027, a move he claims is crucial for online safety.
The 'IRL' trial involved 4,000 secondary pupils aged 12-15 across Bradford, with participants given a daily budget of time for specific apps and prohibited from using social media between 9 PM and 7 AM. At Appleton Academy in Wyke, over 200 pupils took part, reporting better sleep, improved focus in lessons, fewer social conflicts, and a significant shift in overall mood.
Despite the reported benefits, many pupils expressed reservations about an outright ban. Lexi, aged 14, who spent around six hours a day on apps, now feels happier and less screen-dependent, but advocates for time limits as a more practical solution. Star, also 14, felt healthier and more energetic offline, but worried that a complete ban would 'disarm' him from staying in touch with friends.
Concerns were raised about the potential impact on friendships and academic support. Declan, while acknowledging increased time outdoors, found it challenging to stay in touch with people and use platforms like TikTok and YouTube for revision, fearing a ban could disrupt long-distance friendships and learning methods. Bailey, aged 15, expressed scepticism, believing teenagers might find ways to circumvent a ban and suggesting a compromise like time limits would be more effective.
Professor Lisa Henderson from the University of York commented that the proposed ban 'sends a clear message to children on the harms' of social media. However, she cautioned that it is not 'a silver bullet', implying that a comprehensive approach to online safety and well-being might require more than just a blanket prohibition.
The diverse feedback from the Bradford trial highlights the complex relationship young people have with social media, balancing its perceived benefits for connection and learning with its potential drawbacks for mental health and well-being. The experiences of these pupils offer valuable insights as policymakers consider the best approach to safeguarding children in the digital age.