The United Kingdom is weighing a potential ban on social media use for children under the age of 16 as part of efforts to tackle growing concerns around online safety and excessive screen time.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the proposal is currently under review, alongside broader measures aimed at regulating how young users interact with platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
According to the government, the discussions form part of an ongoing consultation process focused on understanding how social media affects children’s sleep patterns, education, and family life.
Starmer also raised concerns about algorithm-driven content, describing features that encourage prolonged usage as harmful.
“We’re consulting on whether there should be a ban for under 16s. But equally important, the addictive scrolling mechanisms are really problematic,” he said.
In addition to a possible ban, UK authorities are reviewing options such as introducing app curfews, placing daily time limits on usage, and restricting algorithm-based content feeds that encourage continuous scrolling.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the consultation has already received tens of thousands of responses, with parents, teenagers, and families sharing their experiences and concerns.
The move reflects a broader global trend, as countries like Australia have already implemented similar restrictions for younger users, while others such as Greece and Indonesia are tightening rules around children’s access to social media.
No final decision has been made, but the outcome of the consultation is expected to shape future policies on how social media platforms operate for young users in the UK.
UK Considers Social Media Ban for Under-16s Over Safety Concerns
April 13, 2026
The United Kingdom is weighing a potential ban on social media use for children under the age of 16 as part of efforts to tackle growing concerns around online safety and excessive screen time.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the proposal is currently under review, alongside broader measures aimed at regulating how young users interact with platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
According to the government, the discussions form part of an ongoing consultation process focused on understanding how social media affects children’s sleep patterns, education, and family life.
Starmer also raised concerns about algorithm-driven content, describing features that encourage prolonged usage as harmful.
“We’re consulting on whether there should be a ban for under 16s. But equally important, the addictive scrolling mechanisms are really problematic,” he said.
In addition to a possible ban, UK authorities are reviewing options such as introducing app curfews, placing daily time limits on usage, and restricting algorithm-based content feeds that encourage continuous scrolling.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the consultation has already received tens of thousands of responses, with parents, teenagers, and families sharing their experiences and concerns.
The move reflects a broader global trend, as countries like Australia have already implemented similar restrictions for younger users, while others such as Greece and Indonesia are tightening rules around children’s access to social media.
No final decision has been made, but the outcome of the consultation is expected to shape future policies on how social media platforms operate for young users in the UK.
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