Social Media Harming Children's Well-being: Campaign's Alarming Official Statement
The National Education Union (NEU) and a coalition of supporting organisations have launched a campaign called "Robbed: Big Tech's Little Victims," raising concerns about the impact of social media on children and young people.
At the heart of the campaign is the belief that social media platforms are causing harm to children, a sentiment echoed by NEU general secretary Daniel Kebede. According to a poll conducted by Censuswide for the NEU, 69% of respondents believe social media companies are robbing children and young people of their childhoods.
One of the key proposals of the campaign is to raise the digital age of consent from 13 to 16. The digital age of consent refers to the age a child may give consent to the processing of their personal data in relation to information society services.
The campaign also advocates for a watermark for ethical advertising on social media platforms, a two-hour cap per platform for children's use of social media apps, and a windfall tax on social media companies to fund mental health services.
Baroness Anne Longfield, in her statement, highlighted that children are navigating a digital world not designed to protect them, often manipulated, and are being robbed of various aspects like sleep, confidence, attention, and connection.
A poll of 1,000 parents of children aged 10-16 found that 77% believe social media companies have played a significant role in the mental health crisis young people are facing. The same poll found that 68% of respondents think social media is exacerbating mental health problems in under-16s.
The campaign urges the Government to publish guidance on the health impacts of social media for children. It also calls for guaranteed space on the school curriculum to teach digital literacy.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has suggested a two-hour cap per platform for children's use of social media apps, while 36% of parents said their child's time on hobbies has been reduced due to social media. Moreover, 42% of parents reported that social media has caused their child to spend less time outside.
The Government spokesperson stated that they have taken the boldest steps anywhere in the world to ensure online content is age-appropriate. However, they also emphasised the balance of protecting children while ensuring they can safely benefit from the digital world without risking isolation or cutting off access to vital services, especially for the most vulnerable.
Besides the NEU, the coalition running the campaign includes Fair Play For Children, Mumsnet, Parentkind, Reel It In, Health Professionals for Safer Screens, The New Britain Project, headteacher Damian McBreath, and Keystone Tutors founder Will Orr-Ewing.
Mr. Kebede stated that social media continues to rob children of their wellbeing and socialization outside of school. He emphasised the need for a collective effort to ensure children can grow up in a digital world that respects their rights and wellbeing.
In conclusion, the "Robbed: Big Tech's Little Victims" campaign brings to light the concerns of parents and educators about the impact of social media on children's mental health, socialisation, and overall wellbeing. The campaign is calling for action from the Government and social media companies to protect children in the digital age.
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