The UK is banning under-16s from accessing a range of major social media platforms after former prime minister Keir Starmer confirmed the long-discussed policy on 15 June.

The government says the legislation will be introduced to Parliament before the end of the year, with the restrictions expected to come into force in spring 2027.

The policy marks one of the most significant changes to online regulation in the UK and follows months of consultation with parents, campaigners, technology companies and young people.

Ministers say the measure is designed to reduce children’s exposure to harmful online content, cyberbullying and addictive platform features while giving young people “their childhood back”.

Just over a week after announcing the ban, Keir Starmer also announced his resignation as prime minister, marking a wider period of uncertainty in UK policy direction. New PM Andy Burnham has previously spoken in favour of a ban.

What will the ban do?

The ban applies to major social media services including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, X and YouTube.

According to the government, platforms that primarily allow users to create content, interact with others and consume algorithmically recommended material will fall within the scope of the new rules.

Not all online services will be affected. Messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Signal will remain available, while educational services, games and standard AI chatbots will also be exempt from the ban. However, some of these services may still face additional safety requirements.

The government has also announced restrictions on features such as livestreaming for under-16s and tighter rules surrounding AI “romantic companion” chatbots – though this is also extended to under-18s.

Teens’ reactions

While the government has presented the measure as a child safety initiative, early reactions from young people have been mixed.

During interviews by the BBC shortly after the announcement, teenagers questioned how the restrictions would affect their daily lives.

The same BBC reporter later asked a group of teenagers if they welcomed the ban to raise their hands. None did. One teenager said she had expected the prime minister to “chicken out of it” and delay the decision for further consideration. She added that she was still unsure whether she agreed with the ban.

Organisations’ responses

The announcement has also prompted responses from technology companies and digital rights organisations.

Several major platforms have argued that existing safety measures already provide significant protections for young users and warned that blanket restrictions could encourage teenagers to migrate towards less regulated parts of the internet.

Some privacy advocates have also questioned how age verification systems will operate while protecting users’ personal information.

Supporters of the policy, however, argue that stronger action is needed after years of concerns about online harms affecting children.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Harbingers’ Magazine (@hrb.mag)

Parent campaign groups have welcomed the decision, saying it represents a significant step towards improving children’s wellbeing and reducing excessive time spent on social media.

The UK is not the first country to introduce age-based social media restrictions. Australia approved similar legislation in 2025, banning under-16s from accessing many social media platforms. However, its effectiveness in stopping children from accessing social media is under debate.

Ministers have frequently referred to Australia’s experience while developing the UK’s approach, although the new UK framework includes additional measures covering livestreaming, AI chatbots and protections on certain gaming platforms.

Further details on enforcement are expected later this year as Parliament considers the legislation. Until then, platforms, regulators and families will continue preparing for what could become one of the most extensive changes to children’s online access introduced by a democratic country.