The UK government has launched a national consultation on children’s online safety, seeking public views on further measures to address the impact of digital technology on young people. Led by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the consultation builds on the Online Safety Act 2023.
The proposals under consideration include setting a minimum age for accessing social media, restricting design features such as autoplay and infinite scrolling, and potentially raising the digital age of consent. The government is also examining the role of age verification technologies, the possibility of placing guidance on mobile phone use in schools on a statutory footing, and improving parental controls and support.
Officials state that while technology supports learning, creativity and social interaction, concerns have been raised by parents, teachers and young people about risks and excessive use. Social media usage among children has increased significantly in recent years.
The consultation invites responses from the public, including dedicated surveys for parents, carers, and young people aged 10 to 21. It closes at 11:59pm on 26 May 2026.
The government has committed to publishing its response in summer 2026 and indicated it may introduce measures using new legal powers without requiring further primary legislation.
