The Children's Commissioner, Nicola Killean, has voiced significant 'disappointment' regarding the Prime Minister's announcement of a social media ban for children under 16. Ms Killean cautioned that such a prohibition might 'inadvertently push children to less regulated or riskier parts of the internet', undermining the very goal of protecting them.
The Prime Minister had previously outlined his government's intention for a full ban, stating that 'every parent can see it with their own eyes. Social media is making children unhappy.' He further elaborated that these platforms facilitate bullying and harassment, potentially harming mental health by exposing young people to dangerous content designed to capture attention. However, Ms Killean's office conducted a children's rights impact assessment as part of the government's consultation, which concluded that a ban for under-16s would not currently be a 'proportionate, effective, or enforceable way to protect children's rights'.
While acknowledging the serious risks social media poses, including harmful content, cyberbullying, and exploitation, Ms Killean also highlighted its positive role in children's lives. She noted that it supports communication, self-expression, access to information, and connection with support networks. Furthermore, she expressed concern that the ban could disproportionately affect certain groups of children, such as those in rural areas, children with family overseas, disabled children, and those who rely on online spaces for identity and community support.
Instead of a ban, Ms Killean advocated for a stronger focus on holding social media companies accountable, particularly concerning 'addictive and exploitative features'. She argued that platforms should be adapted to be suitable for children, rather than simply excluding children from them. She also stressed the importance of ensuring children feel empowered to report harmful content without fear of repercussions or blame.
The Scottish Government's Minister for Children and Young People, Siobhian Brown, echoed calls for greater clarity on the practical implications of the proposals. She emphasised that plans should not be 'rushed through without a clear plan for actually holding social media companies accountable for their failures to protect children'. Mary Glasgow, Chief Executive of Children First, a Scottish children's charity, welcomed the plans but stressed that children would likely find ways around a ban, necessitating tech companies to implement changes that ensure their products are safe by design.