The debate around children’s use of social media has moved firmly into the mainstream and into the courts. With Parliament actively considering restrictions on under-16s accessing social media, this is one of the fastest moving areas of law affecting families today.
At Slater Heelis, we are increasingly seeing how these issues intersect with family law, particularly where parents are separated and navigating decisions about a child’s digital life.
The legal landscape has changed
Since July 2025, the Online Safety Act has placed a legal duty on social media platforms to protect children from harmful content. This includes material that promotes self-harm, eating disorders, suicide and pornography. Platforms that fail to comply face significant fines.
Age verification is now a requirement for many platforms, and companies must take active steps to prevent strangers from contacting children online.
These are meaningful protections. But they are not a substitute for parental oversight, and they do not resolve the disagreements that arise between parents about how a child’s online activities should be managed. If you are unsure how these legal changes affect your family’s situation, our team can help you make sense of what they mean in practice.
The role of parental responsibility
For parents, the legal concept of parental responsibility remains central. This includes making decisions about a child’s welfare, which now extends to their online activity.
From a family law perspective, disputes around social media use are becoming more common. Concerns can range from the content a child is exposed to, to the amount of time spent online, and the risks associated with contact from strangers.
Where parents are unable to agree, these issues can form part of wider discussions around child arrangements. In some cases, the court may be asked to intervene, with the child’s best interests always the primary consideration. Our family law team regularly advises parents on how parental responsibility applies to situations just like these, and we can help you understand where you stand.
When separated parents disagree
Differing views on social media can be particularly challenging in separated families. One parent may take a more relaxed approach, while the other may have significant safeguarding concerns.
Inconsistency between households can create confusion for children and increase tension between parents. Establishing clear, agreed boundaries is therefore important.
This can often be achieved through open discussion, mediation, or by formalising arrangements within a parenting plan. A shared approach not only reduces conflict but also gives children clarity and stability. At Slater Heelis, we regularly support parents through this process, whether that means helping to structure a parenting plan, facilitating access to mediation, or providing clear legal advice when conversations have broken down.
A growing issue in modern family law
The government launched a public consultation in March 2026 on whether a minimum age for social media should be introduced. It has already received tens of thousands of responses, and an outcome is expected later this year.
Whatever Parliament decides, the day to day responsibility for managing a child’s online activities will remain with parents. Legislation can shape what platforms are required to do; however, it cannot replace the guidance and oversight that families provide.
Family law is adapting alongside these changes. Courts are becoming more familiar with digital risks and are willing to address them where necessary. If you are concerned that social media is affecting your child’s welfare and you are not sure whether this is something the court could assist with, it is worth taking early legal advice. Acting sooner rather than later can make a real difference to outcomes.
Practical steps for parents
Parents navigating concerns around social media may wish to consider:
- Agreeing consistent rules across both households
- Setting age appropriate boundaries for usage
- Encouraging open conversations about online experiences
- Monitoring use where appropriate
- Seeking legal advice if disputes escalate
If any of these feel difficult to achieve on your own, you do not have to manage them without support. We are here to help you find a practical way forward.
How we can help
Our experienced family law team regularly advises clients on issues relating to children and parenting arrangements, including disputes involving social media use. We understand that these situations are rarely straightforward and that the stakes feel very high when children are involved.
We work with clients to find practical, child focused solutions, and we take the time to understand the full picture before advising on the best course of action. Whether you need help reaching an agreement with the other parent, want to understand your legal position, or require representation if matters have escalated, we are well placed to help.
Where necessary, we can provide robust representation to ensure your child’s best interests are protected.
If you would like advice on any aspect of family law, our team is here to help.
Get In Touch
Charlotte Beck is a Partner in the Family Department, specialising in children and divorce law, financial proceedings, international divorces and high net worth cases.
Carla Murray is a Partner and Head of the Commercial team at Slater Heelis, advising businesses on a wide range of commercial agreements, distribution models, manufacturing arrangements and technology agreements, as well as supporting clients with intellectual property protection and data protection strategy.
If you’d like to speak with Charlotte, Carla or one of our other experienced lawyers, please don’t hesitate to contact us by calling 03300 297 347 or completing our online contact form.
