Over 60% of young people believe social media does more harm than good, with three-quarters of 16-to-24-year-olds calling for stricter rules to protect them from its harms. A study by The New Britain Project and More in Common found social media was seen as the most damaging influence on teen mental health.

Of 1,600 surveyed, 55% said social media had worsened over five years, while 62% felt it had become less safe. Four in five parents would try to keep their children off social media for as long as possible.

Young women viewed social media more negatively than young men, and half of all respondents regretted time spent on their phones. The findings come as MPs prepare to debate Labour MP Josh MacAlister’s bill on smartphone safety for children.

Luke Tryl, of More in Common, noted many Gen Z Britons regret their time on social media and wish they had waited longer to join, yet now feel unable to quit.

A Department for Science, Innovation and Technology spokesperson said new Online Safety Act protections will come into force by summer to ensure children have a safer, age-appropriate online experience.