What is changing?

The government intends to prevent under‑16s from accessing major social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and others.

The aim is to:

• Reduce children’s exposure to harmful content
• Improve mental wellbeing
• Give families greater control over children’s online lives

Importantly:

• Messaging apps (like WhatsApp) are unlikely to be included
• Additional protections (like blocking strangers and livestreaming) will also apply

Why this matters for separated parents

Disagreements about social media are already common in separated families and may become more significant legally.

You may find yourselves disagreeing about:

• Whether your child should have social media at all
• What age is appropriate
• Screen time and supervision
• Different rules in each household

With new laws looming, these issues are increasingly seen as part of a child’s overall welfare, not just parenting style.

Why you should act now

Although the ban is not yet in force, legal professionals are encouraging parents to reach agreement early.

Why?

• It reduces the risk of conflict later
• It creates consistency for your child
• It avoids last-minute disputes when the law changes
• Courts are more likely to expect parents to have thought about digital safety proactively

Practical steps you can take

1. Start the conversation early

Speak with your co-parent about:

• Whether your child should be using social media now
• What your expectations are for the future
• How you’ll prepare for the 2027 changes

Keep the discussion child-focused, not parent-focused.

2. Aim for consistency between homes

Children benefit from similar rules across both households.

Try to agree on:

• Age limits
• Screen time
• Types of apps allowed
• Supervision (e.g. checking accounts or privacy settings)

Consistency reduces confusion—and potential conflict.

3. Put your agreement in writing

This doesn’t need to be formal or complicated. A simple written agreement can cover:

• Access to social media
• Times of use
• Devices allowed
• Consequences if rules are broken

A written record can help prevent misunderstandings later.

4. Review arrangements regularly

Children’s needs change quickly.

Agree to revisit your arrangement:

• As your child gets older
• When the law changes
• If concerns arise (e.g. bullying or excessive use)

5. Keep the focus on your child’s wellbeing

If disagreements arise, ask:

“What arrangement best supports our child’s safety, happiness, and development?”

This is also the approach the court will take if matters escalate.

What happens if you can’t agree?

Not all parents will find agreement easy and that’s understandable.

If needed, support is available:

• Mediation can help resolve disagreements constructively
• Legal advice can clarify your options
• Court proceedings remain a last resort, focused on the child’s best interests

Final thoughts

The proposed social media ban marks a significant shift in how children’s online lives are viewed in the UK.

For separated parents, the key message is simple:

Don’t wait for 2027—start planning now.

Early communication, clear expectations

Tamara Dove O’Hara

Family Solicitor, South Elmsall Office