British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is preparing to unveil plans aimed at restricting children's access to harmful social media platforms, marking a significant step in the government's efforts to
strengthen online safety for young people.
According to reports published Monday, the proposed measures would prevent children under the age of 16 from using certain social media services deemed harmful, while still allowing access to platforms considered safer. The initiative follows growing concerns about the impact of online content on children's mental health and wellbeing.
Starmer is expected to outline his vision during a speech later on Monday. The move reportedly comes after consultations with families who have lost children to online-related harms, as well as a review of international approaches, including Australia's decision to introduce a social media ban for under-16s in December last year.
A Downing Street source said the prime minister is prepared to challenge major technology companies if necessary to improve protections for young users.
While reports suggest restrictions are being actively considered, sources familiar with the discussions indicated that a formal ban is unlikely to be announced immediately. Instead, the government may first unveil additional measures designed to prevent children from creating or sharing sexualized images online, a practice increasingly linked to sextortion and other forms of digital exploitation.
The debate comes amid a wider review of children's online access in the UK. Earlier this year, the government launched a consultation examining potential safeguards, including social media curfews, screen-time limits, and restrictions on addictive platform features.
Britain is not alone in considering tighter controls. Several European countries, including France, Denmark, and Poland, are exploring stricter rules on children's use of social media. Greece has already announced plans to prohibit access for users under 15 beginning in January 2027.
Starmer's office said the prime minister's speech will focus on ensuring technological innovation delivers positive outcomes for society while minimizing risks to young people.
The UK already enforces online safety legislation requiring social media companies to take steps to shield children from harmful and illegal content. However, debate continues over whether stronger restrictions are necessary. Experts remain divided on the effectiveness of an outright ban, while many young people argue that limiting access could reduce opportunities for communication, learning, and social connection.
The government's next steps are expected to intensify the discussion over how best to balance child protection with digital freedom in an increasingly connected world. Photo by Jason Howie, Wikimedia commons.
