Stacey Solomon has expressed her relief after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a new social media ban for under-16s, targeting platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The mother of five took to Instagram to share her emotional response to the news, which she described as a long-awaited step toward protecting children online.
Stacey Solomon's Reaction
In a video posted on Instagram, Stacey said: "My God, finally. I just thought I would come on and just say to anyone who signed that petition that I shared the other day, or any petition, or has made any noise around this whatsoever - thank you, and massive well done." She acknowledged that the details of the ban are still unclear but praised the Prime Minister for acknowledging the issue and taking steps to address it.
Stacey, who has been actively campaigning for online safety, also shared a poignant moment when she met bereaved families at her hotel. "One of the mums just came up to me when I got to reception. What they've been through is unimaginable. They've lost their children," she said. "I'm so relieved that something is finally happening."
Prime Minister's Announcement
Sir Keir Starmer announced the ban as part of a broader effort to secure online safety for children. He stated: "I am not prepared to compromise on the safety and happiness of our children, and that is why this ban must happen, and why this ban will happen." He emphasized that social media is designed to be addictive and makes children unhappy.
The Prime Minister pledged to take on tech giants and "call time on a system that's failing kids." The ban will apply to major platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, with enforcement details to be determined.
Impact on Families
Bereaved parents have welcomed the announcement. Ellen Roome, whose son Jools Sweeney died at age 14 in 2022, said: "Sitting with the other bereaved parents, we all did shed a tear. We shouldn't be having to be in this position but we all lost our children and campaigned to make a difference for other people's children."
Stacey Solomon, who shares three young children with Joe Swash, expressed gratitude to the campaigning families: "I'm so grateful to those families who have been through the absolute worst thing in the world, and have still campaigned and fought for other children. Hopefully, this will be a massive change for the next generations to come."
