Share your views on social media ban for under-16s
3 mins read
Tuesday 16 June 2026
The government has announced plans to ban social media platforms from offering services to under-16s as part of a wider package of online safety measures.
The proposed changes are expected to be brought before parliament later this year. They could come into force from Spring 2027.
Which platforms are affected?
According to the government, the proposed ban would apply to user-to-user social media platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X. These platforms allow users to post content and use algorithms to determine what material users see.
The ban will not include messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal.
The government says the measures are designed to reduce children’s exposure to harmful content and features, including algorithm-driven feeds, stranger contact, livestreaming and other social interaction tools.
What would children still be able to access?
Based on information the government has shared so far, children would still be able to access:
- Educational websites and learning platforms.
- Streaming services such as BBC iPlayer, Netflix and Disney+.
- Messaging services including WhatsApp and Signal.
- Games and gaming platforms, unless the government announces further restrictions.
- Apps used for communication, accessibility and assistive technology.
- Most websites and online services that are not classified as social media.
Other proposed measures
The social media ban is part of a wider package of online safety proposals. The government is also proposing:
- Restrictions on livestreaming for under-16s.
- Additional protections to prevent strangers contacting children online.
- Some protections extending to gaming platforms.
- Restrictions on AI “romantic companion” chatbots for under-18s.
Share your views as a parent carer
We’d love to hear your views on what you think of the proposed ban. A discussion is already underway in our private Facebook group – please join in!
Many families of disabled and neurodivergent children tell us that screens and online platforms can be more than a source of entertainment. For some children and young people, they support communication, learning, connection, routine, special interests and emotional regulation. What benefits of social media do you think we shouldn’t lose sight of?
We also know that many parent carers worry about social media and child safety. Disabled children can be more at risk than their peers from predatory behaviour. There are also widespread concerns about the addictive nature of social media and the prevalence of inappropriate and unregulated content. Will a social media ban make you feel less worried about your child using the internet?
Get involved in our private Facebook group. You can also share your views privately by emailing [email protected]
What happens next?
The government says it intends to bring the legislation before parliament before Christmas, with implementation expected in Spring 2027.
It will publish further details about the ban in July. For now, several details remain unclear, including:
- How age checks would work in practice
- Whether any exemptions will apply to child-focused services such as YouTube Kids.
- How the rules will affect children who rely on online communities for support, learning or connection such as home-educated children.
- What guidance will be provided to families .
We will continue to update families as more information becomes available.