A recent study reveals that despite the implementation of the Online Safety Act last year, young girls are still being exposed to harmful suicide and self-harm content on social media platforms. Ian Russell, the father of Molly Russell, who tragically took her own life in 2017, is urging Keir Starmer not to enforce a complete social media ban for individuals under 16. Instead, he advocates for targeted measures to address the harmful content that influenced his daughter’s actions.
The Prime Minister is set to announce a ban for under 16s on popular platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok following a three-month consultation by the government. Data released to The Mirror indicates that nearly half of girls and a third of teenagers aged 13 to 17 encountered high-risk content related to suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders in a one-week period in April. Interestingly, the study shows that slightly fewer teens are encountering harmful content now compared to before the Online Safety Act came into effect.
This raises concerns about the efficacy of online safety regulations and whether major tech companies are abiding by the guidelines. The Molly Rose Foundation, which conducted the research, expresses grave concerns that mimicking an Australian-style social media ban may not adequately address the underlying safety issues identified in their study.
While Mr. Russell, who has been opposed to a ban, expresses disappointment in Mr. Starmer’s approach, arguing that it may not create a safer digital environment for youth in the long run. Additionally, he believes that children will find ways around any ban, potentially making the digital landscape even more perilous. The Molly Rose Foundation’s polling indicates that the majority of parents support age restrictions similar to those implemented in Australia.
Experts caution that imposing a ban could absolve tech companies of their responsibility to enhance platform safety. Arturo Béjar, a former senior Meta employee turned Whistleblower, emphasizes the need for tech firms to demonstrate the safety of their platforms before allowing young users access.
On the other hand, some bereaved parents, like Ellen Roome, who lost her son due to an online challenge, strongly advocate for a ban on social media for minors. The National Education Union and other organizations also endorse the idea of a ban to protect children from harmful online content.
Media regulator Ofcom has previously directed online services to take immediate action to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate content. All social media platforms were required to implement age verification processes by July 2025 to comply with the Online Safety Act, encompassing sites such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter.
A recent survey conducted by MEL Research among 1,825 UK children aged 13-17 in April 2026, in collaboration with the PHSE Association, sheds light on the concerning prevalence of harmful content on social media platforms.
For those in need of emotional support, the Samaritans helpline is available 24/7 at 116 123, or via email at jo@samaritans.org. Additionally, visit the Samaritans website or a local branch for assistance.
