This week’s coverage in The Guardian highlights a growing national debate in the UK about the impact of social media on children and young people, the real-world harms emerging from online trends, and what Government responses are being considered

• School Wars Trend Spreading on Apps: Posts circulating on TikTok and Snapchat have been encouraging pupils as young as 11 to join organised “school wars,” framing fights between schools or boroughs as competitions and even suggesting a points system based on harm caused. Police and school leaders in London are urging children not to participate and working with platforms to remove violent content and monitor accounts.
• Government Edges Closer to a Social Media Age Ban: The UK government is preparing to launch a public consultation on potentially banning social media use for under-16s, with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer signalling support for the idea amid pressure from across the political spectrum. Options under review include age limits and technical restrictions such as curbing infinite scrolling, with formal proposals expected by summer.
• Mumsnet Campaigning for ban: Organisations like Mumsnet have stepped up pressure for a ban on social media for under-16s, complete with cigarette-style health warnings, arguing that social platforms contribute to anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm and other harms. While some experts caution that an outright ban isn’t a silver bullet and could push children to ungoverned spaces online, the campaign reflects widespread concern among parents and professionals.
• See also: Government Must Stand Up to Big Tech or Under 16s Social Media Ban Is Coming, Warns NSPCC