Social media usage for individuals under the age of 16 might face a ban in an effort to enhance focus in schools and mitigate mental health issues, as per a prominent teaching union’s caution. The NASUWT, a teachers’ organization, has urged governmental intervention to compel major tech platforms to restrict underage access to their services. This call follows Australia’s recent decision to prohibit social media for minors. The NASUWT argues that unrestricted exposure to social media is linked to worsening behavior in educational settings, negatively impacting the mental well-being of youngsters, and exposing them to potentially harmful content.
An ongoing debate surrounding X’s AI chatbot Grok, known for generating sexualized imagery upon request, has drawn attention. Matt Wrack, the general secretary of NASUWT, emphasized the challenges teachers face due to the unsuitable nature of the current social media environment for children.
Highlighting the necessity for immediate action, Wrack stated, “Social media companies have consistently demonstrated a lack of accountability unless compelled. To safeguard children, preserve their mental health, and address the behavioral crisis in schools, implementing a legal ban on social media access for under-16s is imperative.”
Based on a survey involving 5,800 teachers in 2025, the NASUWT revealed that approximately 81% reported an uptick in student misconduct, with nearly 59% attributing deteriorating behavior to social media influences. Another poll of 300 union members indicated that 89% favored imposing a statutory ban on social media for minors.
Liz Kendall, the Technology Secretary, expressed support for Ofcom’s potential intervention in blocking X if it fails to comply with UK regulations. Concerns raised by the head of the schools regulator Ofsted regarding social media’s impact on attention spans and behavior were also highlighted. A recent poll by Mirror indicated that 64% of respondents endorse a social media prohibition for under-16s, with only 19% opposing the notion.
Wrack reiterated, “Our educators observe social media as a primary driver of behavioral issues, anxiety, and disengagement in classrooms. Children ought to have a chance for wholesome growth, learning, and interpersonal relationships without being ensnared in an online realm that exploits their vulnerabilities.”
Responding to these concerns, Daniel Kebede, General Secretary of the National Education Union, underscored the detrimental effects of social media on childhood experiences, emphasizing the profit-driven nature of platforms that consume young people’s attention and time.
A Government representative emphasized the support for headteachers in maintaining a disruption-free learning environment and highlighted existing guidance restricting phone usage in schools. The Online Safety Act was referenced as a measure aimed at safeguarding minors from harmful online content while fostering a balanced approach to digital engagement.