Ministers are consulting on implementing an Australian-style social media ban for under-16s in the UK.
Lynn Perry, chief executive of Barnardo’s, said:
“While social media can offer connection, community and learning, it is clear that platforms are failing to protect children from harm.
“Every day, children as young as six are being exposed to violent, abusive and dangerous content online, with the majority encountering pornographic content before they turn 18. This has serious and lasting consequences for their lives offline.
“Making the internet safer for children must be the government’s priority – so we welcome this consultation into possible measures and the impact they will have. We also welcome the announcement that young people will be part of the consultation as it's vital their voices are heard on an issue that affects them so profoundly.
“While this is happening, it is vital that the flood of harmful content cannot be allowed to continue unchecked – we need to see urgent action on this. The Online Safety Act places a clear legal obligation on social media companies to stop illegal content appearing on their platforms and to build services that are safe by default, rather than leaving children and parents to shoulder the risk.”