Campaigners describe social media ban as 'epic'

Campaigners across south-east England have reacted positively to the news of a proposed ban for under 16s on social media.

On Monday, the Prime Minister announced restrictions on apps including Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat for under 16s, while 16 and 17-year-olds will also face restrictions, including curfews.

Sir Keir Starmer said: "It's clear to me that a full ban is the right choice."

Isabelle Defaut, who created a play called Generation Fomo, which explores the impact of smartphones and social media on young people's mental health, said she was "emotional" upon hearing the news.

Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, she said: "I've been speaking to young people for two years and that's the whole reason I made the play.

"To hear our government will be supporting them is epic," Defaut said.

"The impact social media has on young people's mental health is terrible - they hate the comparison aspect and there is some stuff they are consuming that is just too much."

Katie Finch, from East Preston near Littlehampton, West Sussex, said: "I think it's excellent news and a huge step forward."

The West Sussex regional leader for the national campaign group Smartphone Free Childhood added: "I genuinely believe this is a really great move and puts the safety of children first.

"Some people will get around it but it sets standards, it tells children what is right and what isn't."

The news was met with some scepticism from Dr Robyn Muir, a senior lecturer in media and communication at the University of Surrey.

She said: "Banning young people's access to social media is not a fix-all solution.

"Wider research has consistently shown that young people's safety in both online and offline spaces relies on strong media literacy skills and open dialogue with trusted adults.

"A blanket ban will not support the development of either of those things."

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