I welcome the UK Government’s plans to introduce stronger online protections for children and young people, including proposals to ban social media platforms from offering services to under-16s.
The measures announced this week form part of wider plans to improve online safety, protect young people from harmful content and help ensure children can enjoy a healthier childhood both online and offline.
Under the proposals, social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X would be required to prevent access for under-16s. The Government is also proposing additional protections, including restrictions on livestreaming and preventing strangers from contacting children through online services.
For many years, I have campaigned for stronger protections for children online and greater accountability from social media companies. While technology and social media can bring many benefits, young people must be able to use these platforms safely.
Earlier this year, I launched a constituency-wide survey to gather the views of residents across Bridgend & Porthcawl on children’s online safety. Many parents, grandparents, carers and young people took the time to share their experiences and concerns.
The survey found that 92% of respondents across the Bridgend & Porthcawl constituency were concerned about the impact social media is having on children and young people. Residents also highlighted concerns around online bullying, harmful content, mental health, body image pressures and the addictive design of some social media platforms.
You can view the full results of the survey by clicking here.
I submitted the findings directly to the UK Government as part of its consultation on children’s online safety and I am pleased to see many of the issues raised by local residents continuing to be part of the national conversation.
While there is still more work to do, these proposals represent a significant step forward in helping to create a safer online environment for young people and supporting parents who are increasingly concerned about the challenges children face online.
The Government intends to introduce legislation before the end of 2026, with the measures expected to come into force in 2027.
I will continue to engage with residents, schools, parents and young people across Bridgend & Porthcawl as these proposals develop and will keep you updated on any further announcements and progress in the months ahead.