Wes Streeting has expressed concerns about the negative impact of social media on young people, labeling it as “antisocial media.” He highlighted the increasing mental health issues affecting the youth, attributing part of the problem to the easy access to extreme content online compared to his teenage years.
Addressing the issue, the Health Secretary hinted at a potential adoption of Australia’s social media ban, which he is closely monitoring through his officials. He stressed the need for a more proactive approach in helping young individuals navigate the challenges of the digital era.
Pointing out the harmful aspects of social media, Streeting emphasized the importance of teaching children how to use technology responsibly. He acknowledged the shift towards social media turning into “antisocial media” due to issues like bullying, intimidation, and radicalization.
The surge in mental health issues among young adults has been linked to the combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and the pervasive influence of social media. Regulatory measures, such as Ofcom’s children’s safety guidelines for tech platforms, aim to restrict access to harmful content to safeguard young users.
Recent data reveals that a significant percentage of young adults in the UK have faced mental health challenges, with a notable increase in the utilization of children and young people’s mental health services. The government is closely monitoring the outcomes of Australia’s social media ban for under-16s to evaluate its potential applicability in the UK.
Campaigners have raised concerns that a social media ban for children could lead to adverse consequences by pushing them towards other online platforms like gaming or messaging services. Despite calls for a similar ban in the UK, Downing Street has reiterated its focus on age-appropriate content regulation while ensuring children can benefit from digital technologies safely.
Looking ahead, parents can expect updated guidelines on screen time for young children, with a particular emphasis on monitoring and managing social media usage. Bridget Phillipson is in discussions with England’s Chief Medical Officer to address the evolving challenges posed by social media on children and adolescents. Guidance on screen time practices is under review to align with current digital trends and concerns.