The world has been watching since December, when Australia became the first nation to ban social media for under-16s.
But months after children were blocked from all major platforms, evidence shows tech companies have not done enough to implement the restrictions, with many young people finding ways of circumventing them.
Research by the UK-based online safety charity, the Molly Rose Foundation, found more than 60 per cent of Australian children are still using social media, while virtual private network (VPN) apps that hide a user’s location have surged in popularity.
With a consultation on usage for the UK’s under-16s closing on Tuesday night, eyes have turned to the British Government to see if it will emulate Australia’s ban.
UK police have urged unsafe social media platforms to be blocked for children, while doctors say there is an “overwhelming consensus” that screen time is harmful.
