UK government proposes a midnight-to-6am social media curfew for 16- and 17-year-olds

2026, July 15

United Kingdom

The UK government has proposed a midnight-to-6am social media curfew for 16- and 17-year-olds as part of wider plans to reduce online harms and improve teenagers’ wellbeing.

Key points of the proposal:

📱 Default overnight restriction: Social media platforms would automatically block access for older teens between 12:00am and 6:00am, although users would be able to opt out.

😴 Focus on sleep and mental health: The government says the measure is aimed at reducing late-night scrolling, improving sleep, concentration and family interaction. A government-backed trial reported improvements in these areas among participants using restrictions.

🔄 Other platform changes: Features linked to excessive use, such as autoplay and infinite scrolling, would be switched off by default for young users, though they could be re-enabled.

🚫 Not a complete social media ban: Unlike proposed restrictions for under-16s, 16- and 17-year-olds would still have access to social media, with exemptions expected for messaging and educational services.

Critics argue the policy may be easy to bypass because teenagers can change settings or use alternative methods, and some campaigners say stronger enforcement and platform accountability are needed. Supporters argue that reducing overnight access could help address the impact of addictive design features on young people's sleep and wellbeing.

The proposal forms part of a broader UK push to tighten online safety rules, including measures affecting younger children’s access to social media.