Social media ban for under-16s: A 'defining moment' for child safeguarding

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has announced sweeping measures to prohibit social media access for children under 16, describing the move as a 'defining moment for our children' during her address to the House of Commons. The proposed ban represents a significant intervention in digital safeguarding policy, aiming to protect young people from online harms and exploitation. The announcement signals a major shift in how the government approaches child protection in the digital age, with implications for schools, social care services, and families across the country. Local authorities will need to consider how this legislation aligns with existing safeguarding responsibilities and educational technology use, whilst ensuring vulnerable children do not slip through gaps as the digital landscape changes. As the details of the ban are debated in Parliament, children's services leaders will be examining the practical implementation challenges and the support required for families and educational settings to adapt to these new digital boundaries. The move raises important questions about enforcement, the role of technology companies, and how local safeguarding partnerships will adapt their strategies to reflect this landmark restriction.