Parents and guardians across the UK are being called upon to contribute to a groundbreaking consultation aimed at enhancing children’s safety in the online environment. This initiative, launched on March 2, 2026, seeks to address growing concerns regarding the impact of social media, AI chatbots, and gaming platforms on young people’s wellbeing.
With millions of parents expressing anxiety about the effects of social media on their children’s sleep, concentration, and mental health, the government is keen to gather public insights. There is a shared sentiment among parents that they are often fighting a losing battle against platforms designed to maximize engagement, leading to concerns over how much screen time is appropriate and what online content their children are exposed to.
The UK’s Online Safety Act has introduced robust protections, yet there is widespread agreement that additional measures are necessary. The current consultation aims to explore various options—including the potential for banning social media for children under 16, assessing the effects of gaming, and introducing restrictions on AI chatbot features. The government seeks a comprehensive understanding of how new regulations could be implemented effectively.
Key topics under consideration include establishing a minimum age for social media users, the possibility of requiring platforms to disable features that promote prolonged engagement, and the introduction of mandatory overnight curfews for specific age groups. Additionally, the consultation will examine whether children should have unrestricted access to AI chatbots and how age verification mechanisms can be strengthened.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall emphasized the importance of fostering a healthy childhood in the digital era. She noted, “The path to a good life is a great childhood, one full of love, learning, and play. That applies just as much to the online world as it does to the real one.” Kendall highlighted the necessity of engaging both parents and children in this landmark consultation, which aims to navigate the complexities of modern technology.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson echoed these sentiments, stating that while technology can enrich children’s lives, a balance must be struck to safeguard their wellbeing. She announced plans to release guidance on healthy screen time for children aged 5 to 16, equipping parents with practical tools to foster positive digital habits.
The consultation, open for three months until May 26, 2026, welcomes contributions from a diverse array of stakeholders, including parents, carers, young people, educators, and civil society organizations. Specialized versions of the consultation have been developed for young audiences as well as parents, allowing for easier sharing of experiences and opinions.
In a move aimed at translating the consultation’s findings into actionable policies, the Prime Minister and Technology Secretary announced new legislative powers. These measures will enable the government to act swiftly on the consultation’s outcomes, allowing for prompt adjustments as technology continues to evolve.
To ground decisions in real-world evidence, the government plans to conduct live pilots with families and teenagers, testing interventions such as social media bans and curfews. This approach aims to gather data on the practical implications of potential restrictions before any formal regulations are established.
In tandem with the consultation, the government is also launching a national conversation to gather broader public input on children’s online safety. This initiative will involve community events, local conversations led by Members of Parliament, and engagement through schools and civil organizations. An academic panel will also assess a growing evidence base, drawing insights from international experiences, including those from Australia.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing children’s digital wellbeing as part of a broader approach to online safety. Practical support for parents is being made available through a dedicated campaign and website, aiming to empower families in navigating the digital landscape.
As the consultation unfolds, the government emphasizes the importance of public engagement in determining the future of children’s online experiences. By involving various stakeholders in this critical dialogue, the UK aims to better understand the challenges and opportunities presented by technology, ultimately working towards a digital environment that supports healthy childhood development.
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