'Parents can provide a real world worth coming back to' - Leeds counsellor on preparing for under 16s social media ban

As a young people’s counsellor, Lisa Norfolk is already considering how the country’s children and teenagers may be affected by a ban on social media platforms for under 16s.

The government has argued the changes, which could be in force by spring next year, “will help give kids their childhood back” and are designed to help protect young people from harmful content, online bullying, abuse and addictive features.

But with the ban expected to cover platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube and X, used by thousands of young people, it will mean a marked shift for many – and with change can come worry.

Leeds-based Lisa, who has been a counsellor and psychotherapist for over 20 years claims some parents are already anxious about the new rules leaving young people feeling upset, frustrated or isolated. Preparation, she says, is key.

“Rather than worrying and waiting, the key is to start to address the problem now,” she says. “Ask your children what it is that scares them most about the ban. Reassure them that your door is open without judgement – let them know that even if they do something wrong, they can always approach you. Don’t wait until the ban becomes law, start talking openly to your children today. Answer questions honestly and work together to help them adjust to the changes ahead of time.”

Lisa, who is registered and accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, says there are common signs a child may already be worrying about the upcoming ban.

“They may be concerned as to how they’ll connect with friends, or feel they have no other hobbies or distractions,” Lisa explains. “They could also be worried that they’ll no longer be able to connect with the online communities they have built up over time.”

Lisa suggests parents remind young people of the positives of spending more time offline, such as real-life connection, creativity and switching off from school.

"Encourage them to find more in-person hobbies and activities,” she says. “And set a good example yourself with screen time and social media; children mirror their parents. Encouraging more quality family time can have a ripple effect for the whole family.”

“For under 16-year-olds, this could feel like their whole world is turned upside down,” she adds. “If they see their parents constantly on their phones on their own social media, it’s not going to go down very well – it’s like adding salt to the wound.

“A lot of young people are quite devastated by it but I think a parent can really provide a world that’s worth coming back to.”

Discussing the plans in June, then Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever…

"We’re stepping in to protect children, back parents and set a new normal for future generations.”