The UK is considering a ban on smartphones for children under 16 to protect them from online harms, amid growing concerns about the impact of screen time, social media, and digital exposure on young people's mental health.
A recent Parentkind survey revealed that 58% of parents support this measure, with over 80% considering smartphones "harmful" to children.
If enacted, the regulation would introduce two categories of smartphones: "children’s phones" without social media apps for those under 16, and "adult phones" with full functionality.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson will begin scrutinising smartphone bans in schools across England, responding to growing pressure from MPs about social media’s effect on teenagers. She will monitor a group of schools and analyse the national behaviour survey to identify the most effective ways to enforce bans and address challenges.
The government has expressed frustration over previous failed efforts to enforce phone bans, with a focus now on ensuring full compliance in schools.
Support for a ban has gained momentum, partly sparked by the Netflix series ‘Adolescence’, which highlights the dangers of online misogynist influencers and digital exposure.
Asian Voice has spoken to experts on the potential impact of banning smartphones for under-16s and creating a safer online environment.
Inclusive online environments for all young people
Policy and Regulatory Manager for Child Safety Online at the NSPCC, Rani Govender said, “We recognise and share the concerns raised by young people, which is why we focus on finding balanced solutions. The NSPCC is working to ensure young people maintain access to the online world while being better protected. For instance, The Voice of Online Youth, a group the NSPCC collaborates with, highlights how the online world is integral to their identity and life experiences, with no distinction between online and offline lives. Just as we ensure their rights are respected offline, it's crucial to extend the same protection and support to their online experiences.”
Emphasising that disproportionately impacts children from disadvantaged backgrounds who rely on smartphones for education and communication, Rani said, “It's crucial to consider intersectionality when developing these policies, as marginalised children are often at the highest risk of online harms and may be most negatively affected. However, for LGBTQ+ children, online spaces can be essential for exploring their identity and connecting with communities that may be difficult to find in the offline world. Many children depend on these online spaces, which can offer more accessibility and support than the offline world. Therefore, it's vital to create safe online environments that foster inclusion and protection for all children.”
Tech regulation crucial for child safety, say experts
Professor Sonia Livingstone OBE FBA, Director at the Digital Futures for Children (DFC) Centre, stressed the importance of focusing on what children are doing online. She noted, “The real question is whether children engage with beneficial content or are exposed to harmful material by algorithms. If not on their phones, would they be engaging in healthier activities?” Livingstone argued that the screen time debate distracts from the larger issue of society failing to provide enough positive activities for children.
She supports regulating tech companies to prevent harmful content but opposes banning technology for children. “There is little evidence that banning technology benefits children,” she said. “Instead, offering stimulating activities-both online and offline-supports their development.” She advocates for better parks, outdoor freedom, regulated social media, and educational apps, adding, “Talk of bans distracts from what really matters.”
Professor Subhajit Basu, from the University of Leeds, supports a ban on smartphones in schools for children under 16, calling a proposed law to tighten phone use restrictions a positive step, though not enough. He said, “Countries like Australia have taken decisive action, banning social media for younger children and holding tech companies accountable. We need effective implementation of such measures.”
However, Basu cautions against an absolute ban on smartphones or social media, as it could punish teenagers unfairly and overlook the benefits of digital technology when used responsibly. He stressed that the ‘Online Safety Act’ has made strides but is insufficient in creating a supportive digital environment for children. “We must balance protection with autonomy. Young people’s rights shouldn’t be framed solely around protecting them but also allowing them to engage safely with the digital world,” he added.
