Families who lost children in incidents connected to harmful online content are expected to meet with Starmer and urge the government to consider banning social media access for under-16s. Campaigners argue that current online safety measures are failing to protect young users from dangerous algorithms, cyberbullying, self-harm content, and addictive platform features.
The issue has intensified following warnings from senior doctors and child health specialists, who say the impact of excessive social media use on young people should be treated as a major public health concern comparable to smoking, alcohol abuse, or failing to wear seatbelts.
Medical experts say social media addiction has been linked to rising anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, self-esteem problems, and exposure to harmful content among teenagers and children. Some health professionals are now calling for stronger age-verification systems and stricter regulation of tech companies operating in the UK.
Speaking about the issue, Starmer said action against harmful online content must become a “game-changer,” signaling that the government is reviewing stronger protections for children using digital platforms.
The debate comes as several countries around the world consider stricter social media rules for minors. Australia recently announced plans for tougher age restrictions, while lawmakers in parts of Europe and the United States are also examining how tech companies target younger audiences.
Campaigners in the UK say technology firms should be held more accountable for content recommendation systems that can expose children to harmful material within minutes of joining platforms.
Digital rights groups, however, warn that a complete ban may be difficult to enforce and could raise concerns around privacy, freedom of communication, and online education access.
The growing debate reflects increasing public concern over how social media is shaping the mental health, behavior, and safety of young people in the digital age.