Parents across the UK are begging for help to wean their children off social media, with one mother comparing her daughter's phone to 'crack cocaine,' according to Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts. In an exclusive interview with The Mirror, Roberts revealed the desperate reality families face as they struggle to manage children's screen time.
Government Crackdown on Social Media
Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that Labour will impose a ban on social media for under-16s as part of a comprehensive online safety package. The ban will restrict access to platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Facebook, X, YouTube, Snapchat, and Reddit. The measures are expected to be passed by Christmas and implemented by spring next year, with tech firms facing enforcement action if they fail to comply.
Mumsnet Users Overwhelmingly Support Ban
Roberts noted that 83% of Mumsnet users support delaying social media access for under-16s. However, she emphasized that tech companies must also take responsibility. 'Tech companies should be made to make their platforms safe by design and less addictive,' she said. 'In the meantime, delaying social media access is a good help.'
Addictive Algorithms and Brain Development
Experts have warned that social media algorithms, designed like slot machines to maximize screen time, are rewiring children's brains. Teachers have reported students trying to zoom in on physical books, mimicking touchscreen behavior. Roberts described social media as having 'addictive features' and compared it to cigarettes, citing infinite scrolling, autoplay, and constant dopamine hits.
Harrowing Stories from Parents
Roberts shared stories from mothers worried about teenage girls being exposed to harmful content, including body image issues, unattainable aspirations, and suicide sites. 'It's the worst of the web, and it doesn't take long to find it,' she said. One parent described feeling like she was 'allowing a crack user to have crack in her bedroom every night' when letting her daughter keep her phone.
The 'Other Phone' Collaboration
To help parents, Mumsnet collaborated with Nothing and Safety Mode to develop the 'Other Phone,' a smartphone designed for children. It features content filtering, location tracking, and limited app access, allowing parents to monitor usage without confiscating the device. Roberts criticized big tech for not creating such a phone years ago, stating, 'Safety comes first.'
Call for Continued Action
While welcoming the ban, Roberts stressed that the fight is not over. 'Big Tech will work hard to defend business models built on keeping young people online,' she warned. 'The success of these measures will depend on effective implementation, enforcement, and regular monitoring.' She urged the government to ensure the commitment endures beyond the headlines.
