BASW cautions balanced approach to social media ban for under-16s
The British Association of Social Workers (BASW) has published a position paper on the UK Government’s consultation on children’s online safety and potential restrictions on social media use.
While recognising the serious safeguarding risks children can face online, we have warned the government that a blanket social media ban could unintentionally harm vulnerable young people and fail to address the root causes of online harm.
Drawing on the experiences of social workers across the UK, we are calling for a balanced, rights-based approach focused on stronger regulation of technology companies, improved digital literacy, and better support for children, families, carers, and professionals.
Our full recommendations to the consultation include:
- stronger accountability for social media and technology companies
- mandatory “safety by design” standards for platforms used by children
- improved digital literacy education
- specialist digital safeguarding training for social workers
- involving children and young people directly in policymaking
In our response, we highlight that online spaces can provide vital support, connection, and community for many children and young people, particularly those who are vulnerable or isolated. This includes:
- children in care
- LGBTQ+ young people
- disabled children
- unaccompanied asylum-seeking children
- young people experiencing social isolation
We also stress that policy discussions often assume parental supervision is available, which may not reflect the reality for children in care or those supported by local authorities. A blanket ban could:
- increase social isolation
- push young people towards unregulated online spaces
- reduce opportunities to learn safe online behaviours
- make it harder for vulnerable children to access support services
We have also raised concerns about the risks posed by generative AI and chatbots, particularly around manipulation, misinformation, and emotional dependency among children and young people.
We are urging policymakers to ensure that safeguarding measures are proportionate, evidence-informed, and aligned with children’s rights under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Professor Sam Baron, BASW’s Interim Chief Executive, commented:
“This issue is far more complex than what the media and other commentary would have you believe.
"Social media comes with its risks, and parental supervision is important, but we cannot ignore that there are countless numbers of children whose parents need more support, or where their ‘parents’ are the local authority. Social workers need better guidance and training to keep up with where technology is going so we can best support young people.
“Social workers see first-hand both the risks and benefits of children’s online lives. Children must be protected from harm online, but blanket bans are unlikely to provide the balanced solution that vulnerable young people need.
“We need stronger accountability for technology companies, better digital education, and investment in safeguarding support while also protecting children’s rights to participation, connection, and access to support.”
