Many parents and campaigners are calling for a ban on social media for under 16s, and their concerns are entirely legitimate. Children have been exposed to worrying levels of harm online for far too long, made worse by design choices that push content through powerful recommendation systems.
We all agree that something must change.
But Molly Rose Foundation does not agree that a ban is the right way forward. While well-intentioned it would come with a slew of unintended consequences that could put children at greater risk.
Instead we are calling for a strengthening and expansion of the Online Safety Act so children’s safety and wellbeing is a prerequisite for tech firms doing business in the UK.
You can read more on why we are opposed to a ban and our suggested solutions in our Spotlight on social media bans: A parent’s guide.
If you’re struggling just text MRF to 85258 so you can speak to a trained volunteer from Shout, the UK’s Crisis Text Line service.
