National plans to ban under-16s from using some social media platforms have been welcomed by Devon councillors who say that families have waited too long for stronger protection for children online.
The Government announcement follows action in Devon, where councillors last September backed a motion led by Councillor Graham Bell, County Councillor for Braunton Rural, calling for work towards a countywide ban on smartphone use by pupils during the school day.
Councillors say the proposals are a significant step towards tackling concerns raised by parents, schools and professionals about the pressure social media can place on young people.
The Government says the changes would restrict access to major social media platforms for under-16s and limit high-risk features such as livestreaming and contact from strangers on other online services, including gaming sites and through co-op play on games consoles.
Cllr Bell said:
“The negative effects of social media have been apparent for over a decade, but despite many promises, the social media giants have utterly failed to protect young children from online predators, cyberbullying, or the horrific imagery that the majority of children see online everyday.
“Since 2013 parents have fought with trillion-dollar algorithms for the right to raise our children. This battle has led to anxiety and low self-esteem for families across Devon. In the most serious cases, vulnerable children can suffer devastating consequences.
“I massively welcome these steps to better protect children from being contacted by people they don’t know. Children’s wellbeing must come before profit, and this is a long-overdue step towards redressing that balance.”
Councillor Richard Jefferies, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said social media companies had repeatedly been asked to do more to protect young people, but too often families were left dealing with the consequences.
He said the impact could be seen in anxiety, low self-esteem and pressure on family life, with the most vulnerable children at greatest risk.
Cllr Richard Jefferies: added:
“I welcome steps to better protect children from being contacted by people they don’t know, including while gaming online. That is a real and growing concern for many parents.
“Children’s wellbeing has to come before profit.”
Leader of Devon County Council, Councillor Julian Brazil, said the proposed restrictions were an important step and reflected concerns raised by many parents and professionals.
He said stronger safeguards were needed, including measures to reduce the risk of children being contacted by strangers through online gaming.
Cllr Julian Brazil added:
“This now needs to be followed through. I’ll be paying close attention between now and when these measures come into force next year, because it’s vital they are not watered down under pressure.
“Families and young people need proper protection, not half measures.”
Devon County Council says action cannot wait for national changes to come into force, and will continue working with schools, parents and partners to help children build safer, healthier online habits now.
Parents and carers are being urged to talk to their children now about social media, online gaming and who they are in contact with online, and to seek advice from their school if they have concerns.