We recognise and support the need for stronger measures to protect children and young people from harmful social media content and features, as well as from individuals who use online platforms to exert coercion, exploitation and abuse.

Clear action from the Government on this is long overdue.

However, a blanket ban on social media for under-16s will not address the root causes of online harm and risks diverting attention from the responsibility of social media platforms, effectively letting them ‘off the hook’.

To be truly effective regulation needs to focus on giving OfCom adequate powers to police technology companies to address their design features which drive compulsive use and to ensure the removal of harmful online content.

We’re also waiting for evidence on the impact of Australia's social media ban for under-16s on children's online safety and wellbeing. The legislation was introduced last year but it’s only recently come into effect, and its longer-term outcomes remain unclear.

Safeguarding concerns about social media restrictions

Jo Holmes, Safeguarding Officer at BACP, said:

"As these changes are implemented, we’re concerned about the potential impact on young people who may be socially isolated and rely on online platforms to access support, friendship and communities of shared interest.

"Stronger regulation and sanctions for technology companies should have been introduced much earlier to reduce known harms experienced on platforms, where we know many children under 13 are already active.

"The worry now is that vulnerable children and young people may move to less regulated platforms, increasing their exposure to abuse, exploitation and other online harms.

“As a profession, we must remain curious, informed and vigilant about the evolving ways children experience harm online and avoid assuming that a social media ban alone will guarantee their safety."

Concerns about impact of social media bans on young people

Jenny Smith, BACP Interim Children, Young People and Families Policy Lead, said:

"Emerging evidence from Australia suggests that many children are already finding ways to circumvent social media restrictions. It is crucial that Measures are introduced that directly improve platform safety and address harmful features such as endless scrolling, misinformation and exposure to distressing content, which affect users of all ages.

"At a time when many communities have seen reductions in youth services, community spaces and opportunities for in-person social connection, the online world can provide an important source of belonging for some young people, particularly those who feel isolated or vulnerable.

"We need to carefully consider the evidence of the impact of restrictions on social inclusion and ensure children and young people have safe opportunities to connect, build relationships and access support both online and offline."

Research into young people’s digital lives and counselling practice

We’re currently collaborating on research exploring counsellors’ understanding and attitudes towards young people’s digital lives, including those aged 11 to 18, and up to 24 for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. The study is funded by the Nuffield Foundation and delivered in partnership with Kingston University and the University of Bath.

The research aims to develop training and a practical framework to support counselling professionals in better understanding the impact of digital lives on young people, and how this informs therapeutic practice.

The study is currently open to young people aged 11 to 18 across the UK. Young people who have experienced counselling and would like to share their views through an interview are invited to take part.

The research is open until 30 June, with further information available online.

Public Perceptions Survey (PPS) on social media and young people

Our annual public survey highlighted the scale of concern about children's online experiences. These findings reinforce the need for a balanced approach to online safety, one that addresses genuine concerns about harm while recognising the role digital spaces can play in providing support, connection and a sense of belonging for some young people.

Among parents of children under 18, concern about social media’s impact on young people is even higher than among adults overall.

Key points (parents of under-18s only):

  • Impact on children’s/young people’s mental health: 87% concerned in total – 54% very concerned, 33% slightly concerned.
  • Time spent on social media: 85% concerned – 51% very concerned, 34% slightly concerned.
  • Who children/young people are talking to on social media: 87% concerned – 56% very concerned, 31% slightly concerned.
  • Types of platforms children/young people can access: 84% concerned – 51% very concerned, 33% slightly concerned.
  • Cyber-bullying: 88% concerned – 58% very concerned, 30% slightly concerned.
  • Online grooming/exploitation: 87% concerned – 58% very concerned, 29% slightly concerned.
  • Disinformation, propaganda or radicalisation: 85% concerned – 55% very concerned, 30% slightly concerned.

However, it also showed that among 16–24-year-olds themselves, 12% say they use social media to manage or reduce their own stress levels.