A growing chorus of concern over the impact of social media on young people is building in the United Kingdom, culminating in a latest campaign from Mumsnet calling for a ban on platforms for those under 16. The campaign, launched this week, draws a stark parallel between social media and tobacco, featuring health warning-style graphics on billboards and online, highlighting potential harms like increased rates of anxiety, self-harm, and eating disorders. This push for stricter regulation comes as policymakers grapple with how to protect children in the digital age, with the prime minister recently promising action to curb access, though the specifics remain unclear.
The Mumsnet campaign, dubbed “Rage Against the Screen,” doesn’t shy away from direct messaging. Advertisements claim that “three hours or more social media a day makes teens more likely to self-harm,” that “teen phone addiction doubles the risk of anxiety,” and that social media use can increase the risk of eating disorders. The campaign too links addictive social media use to a higher risk of suicidal behavior, citing research that underscores the potential for serious mental health consequences. Mumsnet is urging parents to contact their Members of Parliament to demand a complete ban on social media for under-16s.
A Growing Wave of Parental Concern
The Mumsnet campaign reflects a broader anxiety among parents about the effects of social media on their children. According to research conducted by the platform in spring 2025, 92% of parents expressed concern about the impact of social media on children’s mental health, and over 60% believe their child is addicted to their phone or social media. Justine Roberts, founder of Mumsnet, articulated the core argument, stating, “Families are living with the harm caused by social media every day. This isn’t about parents failing to set boundaries. It’s about children being exposed to products deliberately designed to be addictive.” Roberts argues that the business model of social media companies prioritizes engagement over well-being, making it nearly impossible for parents to effectively counteract the platforms’ influence.
This sentiment is echoed by young people themselves. Sedona Jamieson, a student who has experienced mental health challenges, welcomed the campaign, describing how she encountered harmful content – including pro-anorexia and self-harm material – even as seeking support online at age 15. “Rather than offering help, these spaces risked deepening the very struggles I was trying to overcome,” she said. Jamieson emphasized the vulnerability of developing brains to online influences, calling for platforms to prioritize safeguarding and responsible content moderation.
Government Response and Ongoing Debate
The call for action from Mumsnet comes as the government considers its next steps. Last week, the prime minister pledged measures to curb under-16s’ access to social media “in months, not years,” as reported by The Guardian, but stopped short of committing to a full ban. The children’s commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, while acknowledging the need for improved online safety, cautioned that a ban wouldn’t automatically guarantee children’s safety, warning that it could drive them to “darker parts of the internet.”
A government spokesperson affirmed that officials are “determined to get this right,” stating that a swift consultation will explore options ranging from age limits and safer design features to a potential social media ban. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has also weighed in, emphasizing that protecting children’s mental health must be a public health priority. The organization highlighted a growing body of evidence linking early and unrestricted social media access to lasting negative impacts on mental well-being, and called for social media providers to share anonymized data with independent researchers to better understand the relationship between algorithms, online activity, and mental health.
The Role of Regulation and Parental Guidance
The debate over how to address the potential harms of social media extends beyond a simple ban. Experts suggest a multi-faceted approach is needed, including greater regulation of social media providers, increased funding for child and adolescent mental health services, and open communication between parents and children about online safety. The Royal College of Psychiatrists stresses the importance of parents and carers having discussions with their children about safe online practices and balancing screen time with other activities like socializing, exercise, and sleep.
The question of whether a ban is the most effective solution remains open. Some argue that it could simply push young people to circumvent restrictions, while others believe it’s a necessary step to protect vulnerable minds. The effectiveness of any policy will likely depend on robust enforcement and a comprehensive strategy that addresses the underlying issues driving problematic social media use.
The government’s consultation is expected to conclude this summer, at which point more concrete plans will be unveiled. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the digital landscape for young people in the UK for years to come.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about mental health and social media use. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please reach out to a qualified healthcare provider.
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