UK Trials Social Media Bans For Teens As Global Regulation Trend Grows

UK government launches six-week pilot restricting social media access for 300 teens aged 13-17 to inform potential nationwide bans. Participants experience either app disablement, overnight restrictions, or one-hour daily limits on Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat, with results compared to a control group with unlimited access. The trial follows Australia's world-first ban for under-16s and France's proposed restrictions for under-15s, with UK consultation closing May 26. Technology minister Liz Kendall stated the pilots will provide evidence to protect childhood and prepare youth for the future. The UK's upper house previously rejected a full ban pending consultation results, while public figures like Hugh Grant advocate prohibition citing parental inability to counter social media harms. Experts warn restrictions may be circumvented, suggesting tech platforms focus on safer design instead.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/03/25/uk-teenagers-to-trial-social-media-bans-digital-curfews/