Many children and young people will have seen headlines about a possible social media ban for under 16s and may be feeling confused, worried, angry or upset. At the Anti-Bullying Alliance, we know that online spaces can sometimes be places where bullying happens. However, they can also provide important sources of friendship, support and belonging. This can be especially true for children who are experiencing bullying, who may feel particularly connected to online communities, friendship groups or support networks that help them feel understood and less alone.
It may seem surprising, but some children who are being bullied can also feel anxious about losing access to the very platforms where the bullying is taking place. This is often because those platforms are where their friends are, where important social interactions happen, or because they worry about being excluded, talked about or unable to see what is being said about them. While no child should have to experience bullying online, it is important to recognise that children's relationships with digital spaces are often complex.
For many young people, these spaces are not simply apps on a phone. They are places where relationships are built and maintained. It is therefore understandable that some children may be worried about what today's announcement could mean for them.
Here are some ways you can support them if they are concerned about the announcements about social media bans from today:
1. Start by listening
Ask your child what they have heard and how they are feeling about it.
Try not to jump straight into solutions or reassurance. Give them space to explain their concerns and show that you are taking them seriously.
You could say: "It sounds like you're worried about this. Tell me what you've heard and what's making you feel concerned."
2. Remind them that nothing is changing today
Many announcements are made long before any changes happen and we don’t have all the details yet about how it will work.
Reassure your child that there is currently a lot we do not know and that any proposed changes would take time to develop and implement.
You could say: "At the moment, this is an announcement about what might happen in the future. Nothing is changing overnight and we will work this out together."
3. Acknowledge what social media means to them
For many adults, social media can seem trivial or only a small part of our lives. For young people, it may be an important part of their social life.
Recognise the positives they get from being online, whether that's friendships, creativity, gaming communities, learning new skills or accessing support.
You could say: "I can see why this feels important to you. Your friends and communities matter and we can talk about how that can stay connected to that if a ban comes in."
4. Help them separate headlines from facts
News stories can sometimes focus on the worst outcomes and the worst statistics, especially on social media itself.
Encourage your child to be cautious about rumours and speculation. Explain that many details are still unclear and that it is important to wait for reliable information.
5. Focus on what is within their control
Children and young people often feel anxious when they feel powerless.
Remind them that they can continue making positive choices online by being kind, looking after their wellbeing, using privacy settings and talking to trusted adults if something worries them.
6. Talk about online safety
Use this as an opportunity to have an open conversation about their online experiences.
Ask:
- What do they enjoy online?
- What worries them online?
- Have they ever seen bullying, harassment or harmful content?
- What changes would they like adults and technology companies to make?
7. Remind them they do not have to deal with online worries alone
If your child is worried about online bullying, upsetting content, pressure from friends or anything else they have experienced online, remind them that support is available.
Reassure them that there are trusted adults who can help, whether that's a parent, carer, teacher, family member or another trusted adult. Let them know they do not have to manage difficult situations online by themselves.
You could say: "Whatever happens, if something online is making you worried, upset or uncomfortable, you can always talk to me and we'll work through it together."
For many children, knowing that support is available and that they will be listened to can help them feel safer and more confident.
8. Keep communication open
The most important thing is that your child knows they can come to you if they are worried.
Whether they are concerned about losing contact with friends, missing out on communities they value or feeling uncertain about what happens next, knowing they have a trusted adult to talk to can make a real difference.
Finally,
Many children and young people are likely to have questions about today's announcement. Listening, staying calm and focusing on the facts can help them feel more informed, supported and reassured.
Need more support?
If your child is feeling worried, upset or anxious, or if they are experiencing bullying or online harm, there are organisations that can help.
For parents and carers
Coram Kidscape Parent Advice Line
Offers advice and support to parents and carers whose children are affected by bullying.
- 07496 682785
- Coram Kidscape Parent Advice Line
Family Lives
Provides confidential support and advice for parents and carers on a range of family issues, including bullying, online safety and children's wellbeing.
- 0808 800 2222
- Family Lives
NSPCC Helpline
Offers advice and support for adults who have concerns about a child's safety or wellbeing.
- 0808 800 5000
- NSPCC Helpline
For professionals: Professionals Online Safety Helpline (POSH)
The Professionals Online Safety Helpline supports professionals working with children and young people with online safety concerns, including issues relating to social media, online bullying, harmful content and safeguarding.
- 0344 381 4772
- Professionals Online Safety Helpline
Remember, no child or family should feel they have to deal with worries about bullying, online safety or wellbeing alone. Reaching out for support can make a real difference.