UK to ban social media for under-16s from early 2027

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday, June 15, 2026, a sweeping ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, positioning the United Kingdom with some of the world's strictest online safety rules for minors. The ban will apply to major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, Twitch, and Threads.

The policy, set to be implemented in early 2027, aims to protect children from harmful content, bullying, and potential mental health harms associated with social media use. It forms part of the government's Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act. Officials stated the move follows a 12-week public consultation that received over 116,000 responses, with a significant majority of parents supporting the restrictions.

In announcing the decision, Starmer said social media is making children unhappy and easier for bullies to target. He framed the ban as a necessary step to reset social norms and protect families. The government has exempted direct messaging services like WhatsApp and Signal, as well as educational tools like Google Classroom and YouTube Kids, indicating a focus on the algorithmic feeds of mainstream platforms.