NSPCC polling reveals strong support for “film-style” age ratings on social media
New NSPCC polling has revealed that 74% of 11–15-year-olds would support age ratings on social media apps, similar to those used for movies and video games.
The results also found that 92% of adults would support movie and game-style age ratings for social media apps, based on what you can do and see on them.
The new surveys, by YouGov and Savanta, also revealed that children and adults share many of the same worries about social media safety for young people, with 61% of children citing ‘strangers being able to contact them’ as the main issue when asked about problems with social media. This concern was shared by 93% of the adults.
In addition, 84% of adults worried about children sharing their location and 82% cited disappearing images and messages as a concern, while 50% of young people stated that spending too much time on social media was an issue and 42% said seeing upsetting content was a problem for them.
The NSPCC says these concerns point to specific platform features and risks — and show why the Government must now introduce a risk‑based age-rating system and turn-off dangerous functionalities to keep children safe.
In April/May, the charity hosted a series of events across the UK to engage young people with the Government’s public consultation. Despite reporting many positive experiences online, participants were quick to acknowledge the drawbacks to social media and called for stronger protections.
One young person said: “There should be more [requirements] on social media companies to verify ages and tailor content appropriately.
“There is already too much responsibility on parents and carers. Young people are getting blamed for something that is not in their hands.”
Last month the charity launched its Shift Ctrl campaign which highlights how online harm disrupts the everyday lives of young people. It calls on the public to join in demanding urgent action from Government and tech companies to create a safer online world for children.
Chris Sherwood, NSPCC CEO said: “Tech companies have completely failed our children, continually choosing to prioritise profit over safety, with families paying the price.
“Decisive action is now needed by Government to force Silicon Valley to address the serious risks and dangers that continue to exist on their services and ensure we get the protections young people and parents need and deserve.
“Children and adults are telling us they want solutions that go beyond a social media ban. This should include risk-based age ratings for online platforms to ensure young users are getting genuinely safe and age-appropriate experiences.”
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