Bill preventing children from ‘doom scrolling’ to get govt backing – but plan watered down

The Push to Make Digital Childhood Safer

In an era where smartphones and social media have become an integral part of daily life, concerns about their impact on children have sparked a growing debate. A Labour MP, Josh MacAlister, has brought this issue to the forefront with a bill aimed at curbing the phenomenon of "doom scrolling" among children. The bill, which is expected to gain government backing today, seeks to address the growing concern that social media platforms like TikTok and Snapchat are becoming increasingly addictive for younger teenagers. MacAlister, a former teacher, has long advocated for tighter restrictions on screen time for children and believes this bill is a "meaningful first step" toward creating a safer digital environment for young people.

A Campaign for Change: The Road to the Bill

MacAlister’s campaign began with ambitious proposals, including a ban on smartphones in schools, tougher enforcement by Ofcom, and raising the "digital age of consent" from 13 to 16. This would mean that children under 16 would require parental consent to use social media platforms. However, in the face of opposition from ministers, the bill has been scaled back. It now calls for chief medical officers to review the evidence on screen-based harms within a year. This review could pave the way for future decisions on whether to raise the digital age of consent. MacAlister, while acknowledging the bill’s limited scope, remains optimistic, comparing it to the incremental progress seen in past public health campaigns, such as those against smoking or for car seatbelts.

Cross-Party Support and Charity Backing

The bill has garnered significant cross-party support, with MPs from various political backgrounds expressing interest. Additionally, ten children’s charities, including Barnardo’s and the NSPCC, have thrown their weight behind the legislation. In a joint letter to the government, these charities highlighted the "significant risks" that the online world poses to children and argued that current laws do not go far enough in addressing these issues. Their support underscores the widespread concern among experts and advocates about the impact of social media on young people’s mental and emotional well-being.

Young People Speak Out: The Harm of Social Media

Recent polling has revealed that young people themselves are increasingly critical of social media. A survey of 2,000 individuals aged 16-24 found that 62% believe social media does more harm than good, while only 22% think it has a positive impact. Furthermore, 80% of this age group admitted they would try to keep their own children off social media for as long as possible. These findings suggest that young people who have grown up with smartphones and social media are now sounding the alarm about its addictive and harmful nature. Anna McShane, director of The New Britain Project, which commissioned the poll, noted, "This isn’t just parents worrying about their kids—young people themselves are saying social media has become more addictive, more negative, and more harmful."

The Government’s Cautious Approach

The government has expressed a commitment to protecting children online while also recognizing the benefits of technology. A spokesperson for the Department for Technology emphasized that new protections under the Online Safety Act, passed in 2023, will come into force this summer. These measures aim to shield young people from harmful content and ensure age-appropriate online experiences. However, the government has opposed a complete ban on smartphones in schools, arguing that such decisions should be left to headteachers. While the tech secretary has expressed a preference for allowing the Online Safety Act to be fully implemented first, there is a growing recognition that further action may be needed to address the challenges posed by social media.

The Road Ahead: A Journey to Online Safety

The debate over children’s online safety is far from over. While MacAlister’s bill represents a step in the right direction, it is clear that more work is needed to address the complexities of digital childhood. The government’s cautious approach reflects the need for a balanced solution—one that protects children without stifling innovation or restricting access to the benefits of technology. As the review of screen-based harms gets underway, the voices of parents, young people, and experts will continue to shape the conversation. This journey toward a safer digital world is just beginning, and it will require collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to putting children’s well-being at the heart of policy decisions.