UK social media ban could cut lifeline for disabled children, campaigners warn

Activists say blanket ban could prevent teenagers from discovering peers and role models with similar conditions

Disability activists have said banning under-16s from social media risks cutting off a “lifeline for friendship” for disabled children and could push them into social isolation by preventing them from making connections online.

Charities and high-profile figures in disability advocacy said they were concerned that a blanket ban on social media would disproportionately affect teenagers who may not be able to meet people easily in real life or find peers with similar conditions.