The UK government has proposed an overnight social media curfew for older teenagers, aiming to improve sleep and focus. Apps like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube would be inaccessible between midnight and 6am, with 'addictive' features disabled by default.
Critics argue that these measures are insufficient as teens can easily circumvent the restrictions. Campaigner Ellen Roome believes more stringent action is needed to protect young people online.
These plans follow a ban on social media for under-16s in June, part of an increasingly complex mix of policies from tech firms and government aimed at safeguarding children. Meanwhile, some experts question the effectiveness of such measures, fearing they may harm vulnerable children's access to support.
The government intends to implement these measures by 2026, alongside a ban for under-16s. However, child safety charities remain skeptical, arguing that piecemeal announcements fall short of comprehensive plans required for online safety.
