The under-16 social media ban: how we’re feeling

By now, you’ve probably heard about the new social media ban for under-16s. We know there are lots of emotions surrounding it, so we wanted to discuss.

Before it comes into effect in spring 2027, we reached out to teens in our community to get the general feeling about it all – it’s not surprising that there are mixed views and opinions. Here’s what some teens had to say:

“I think the ban is a really positive thing and will help bring young people together outside of technology and hopefully encourage meaningful connection, discouraging the self-worth issues and the reliance that comes with using social media at a young age. Although I do think that implementing the ban by school year rather than age might have worked a little better, especially for those like myself, who are young for their year. I worry for those who will have access to social media a lot later than their peers and how this could leave many teens feeling left out or sidelined from experiences and bonding with their peers, and friends will be able to share through social media, when they gain access to it.” India

"I believe that the social ban is a bad idea because it won't educate the younger generation about Ai, as that will be our future, as it's growing more as we speak. I'm glad I was brought up with social media as it has taught me so much about safety as well as our future." Kate

"I think that the social media ban for under 16s is bad, because social media is a way of connecting with eachother and meeting new people. I know that there is a bad side to social media, however the pros outweigh the cons as it's a great way to experience new things. I think that the government should be stricter on under 13s rather than under 16s, as younger children need more restrictions than teens." Alice

Some other views from teens who prefer to remain anonymous:


“I think there are pros and cons. Social media can expose younger teens to unrealistic standards, cyberbullying, and a lot of pressure, so I understand why people want stronger protections.”

“I met so many online friends due to social media!! I don’t want a ban”

“In my opinion, under-16s should be able to express themselves! Of course we want to be safe but it’s extremely important that we have the right to social media. Especially the 15-year-olds who have GCSEs.”

“I can escape it but I don’t agree with it. I understand bullying and how it should help as I got bullied online and it can be awful but also all of my bestest friends were made through communities online and I imagine there are a lot of people like that who will lose their friends.”

For the record, we think it’s a really positive thing. We know it’s a huge change (and change is hard for everyone), but ultimately those communities that you have made online will continue to exist, it just means you might need to meet up IRL, which is always fun! It’ll encourage people meeting up, socialising and getting away from screens – which can only be a good thing.


There are so many other ways to socialise outside of social media – whether that’s trying a new sport (tennis, padel, golf, you name it), joining a run club, heading to the cinema with friends, hosting a paint & popcorn evening at home, grabbing your favourite snacks and planning a cute picnic over the summer... the possibilities are endless.


It’s also good news from us: we’ll be looking at doing more IRL events and chances to get together. Plus, if you’ve joined us on TYB, you’ll still get all of the exclusive first access to our events, product testing, workshops, shoot opportunities and more, no social media needed. Not joined yet? Download the TYB app and join the fun here: https://app.tyb.xyz/brand/indu-4. We can promise the next few months will be super exciting...