Majority of people in West Mids back social media ban

AN overwhelming majority of people across the West Midlands are in favour of banning under-16s from social media, according to exclusive polling.

- By RACHEL STRETTON & RICHARD AULT

Australia has already moved to restrict children’s access to social media platforms, and with eight out of 10 people in the West Midlands (82%) calling on the UK to follow suit, it is clear that concerns over excessive screen time among young teenagers are widespread.

Social media companies stand accused of developing harmful algorithms that parents say have contributed to addiction, radicalisation, self-harm and even suicide among young people.