PCC welcomes under-16 social media ban
15.06.26 - Merseyside
Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell has backed new Government plans to ban under-16s from social media, highlighting stark feedback from young people across the region about misogyny, harassment and harmful online cultures.
Emily Spurrell said: “I welcome the Government’s announcement today to ban social media use for under-16s. It represents an important step in recognising the very real harms that many young people are facing online every day.
“While I fully support the intent behind this decision, we must not underestimate the practical challenges around implementation. Effective enforcement, safeguarding, and ensuring young people still have access to positive, supportive online spaces will all be critical to making this work.
“During recent youth consultation events I’ve held, young people have spoken powerfully about the realities they face on social media - from misogyny and harassment to exposure to toxic cultures and harmful influences. Many described online spaces as increasingly unsafe, particularly highlighting platforms like Snapchat, where disappearing messages can enable sexual harassment and the sharing of unsolicited images.
“Young people themselves had mixed views on whether a ban alone can tackle deeply rooted attitudes towards women and girls. However, they did recognise that a blanket approach could help remove peer pressure and the sense of ‘missing out’, which often drives engagement with harmful platforms in the first place.
“These conversations are directly shaping our Taking Action campaign focused on tackling Violence against Women and Girls. We are currently developing a bespoke, youth-focused phase of the campaign, designed to amplify young people’s voices, challenge harmful behaviours, and promote safer, more respectful online environments.
“This important work will continue as this ban is brought into force. Because legislation alone is not the answer – we must also change attitudes, challenge behaviour, and ensure every young person can grow up in a culture of respect and safety, both online and offline.”