One of the UK's largest teaching unions has issued a stark call for the Government to impose a statutory ban on social media access for all children under the age of 16. The NASUWT argues such a move is essential to improve concentration in schools, safeguard young people's mental health, and stem a rising tide of disruptive and abusive behaviour in classrooms.
Mounting Evidence of Harm Fuels Union's Demand
The union's demand, made on 11th January 2026, urges ministers to force major technology platforms to prevent under-16s from accessing their services. This follows a similar ban enacted in Australia in December. The NASUWT points to growing evidence that unregulated social media use is a primary driver behind deteriorating pupil behaviour, increased anxiety, and exposure to violent and sexually explicit content.
NASUWT General Secretary Matt Wrack stated: "Teachers are dealing every day with the fallout of a social media landscape not originally designed and not suitable for children." He accused social media companies of failing to act responsibly without legal coercion, adding: "If we are serious about safeguarding children... then a statutory ban for under‑16s must happen urgently."
Polling Reveals Strong Backing from Teachers and Public
The union's position is backed by substantial research. A 2025 survey of 5,800 NASUWT teacher members found that 81% reported an increase in pupils exhibiting violent and abusive behaviour, with 59% citing social media as a key factor. A separate poll of 300 members revealed 89% support for a statutory ban.
This professional concern is mirrored by the public. A recent Mirror poll found that 64% of people support a social media ban for under-16s, with only 19% opposed. The chief of Ofsted has also warned that social media is "chipping away" at children's attention spans and promoting disrespect.
Government Response and Wider Context
The call comes amid heightened scrutiny of online platforms, particularly concerning X's AI chatbot, Grok. The tool was reportedly used to generate sexualised images, including of children, before X changed its settings to restrict such requests to paid subscribers. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has stated she would support regulator Ofcom in blocking X if it fails to comply with UK online safety laws.
Responding to the union's call, a Government spokesperson highlighted existing measures: "Through the Online Safety Act, we have taken some of the boldest steps anywhere in the world... mandating that social media companies protect under-18s from harmful content." They emphasised balancing protection with allowing children to "benefit safely from the digital world."
The National Education Union's General Secretary, Daniel Kebede, welcomed the NASUWT's stance, stating: "Social media is robbing our children of their childhoods... Government inaction is allowing this crisis to deepen." The debate sets the stage for a significant policy clash between educational professionals seeking radical action and a government advocating for its current regulatory framework.
