Digital technology continues to evolve at extraordinary speed, and its influence on young people’s lives has never been greater. From social media to gaming platforms and AI-powered tools, the online world shapes how children learn, communicate and spend their time.

Recognising both the opportunities and concerns this brings, the UK Government has launched a new national consultation “Growing Up in the Online World”, exploring further measures to safeguard children’s digital wellbeing. The consultation is now open and will close at 11:59pm on 26 May 2026.

As a Chamber, we recognise how important digital resilience is for families, educators and employers across Shropshire. This consultation offers an important opportunity for local voices to contribute to national policy-making.

Why This Matters

Technology can support education, creativity and social connection. However, many parents, teachers and businesses have raised concerns that existing protections have not kept pace with increasing online use among children.

The government is now seeking evidence and views from the public to better understand:

  • How children interact with digital services
  • The pressures and risks created by platform design
  • What support families need to navigate the online world

This consultation builds on the Online Safety Act 2023, which strengthened protections against harmful content. The new proposals look beyond content to examine the wider digital environment children are operating in.

Key Areas Under Review

The consultation focuses on several proposals that could have significant long‑term implications for families and organisations:

Minimum Age for Social Media

Exploring whether a national minimum age should be introduced, and what that age should be.

Reducing Addictive Design Features

Considering restrictions on tools such as:

  • Infinite scrolling
  • Autoplay
  • High‑frequency notifications

These features are designed to encourage extended screen time, especially among younger users.

Digital Age of Consent

Assessing whether the current minimum digital age of consent (13) remains appropriate.

Age Verification Technology

Seeking views on how age assurance tools can be made more reliable, safe and proportionate.

Mobile Phone Use in Schools

Evaluating whether current guidance should move onto a statutory footing.

Improving Support for Parents and Carers

Identifying ways to make guidance clearer, parental controls easier to use and support more accessible.

Who Should Respond?

The government is encouraging insights from across society, including:

  • Parents and carers
  • Teachers and education professionals
  • Businesses and tech organisations
  • Civil society groups
  • Children and young people themselves

This is a valuable chance for Shropshire residents, employers and community groups to have their say, ensuring local experiences help shape national policy.

To support engagement, the government has published three tailored versions of the survey:

What Happens Next?

After the consultation closes on 26 May 2026, the government has committed to acting swiftly. In February 2026, the Prime Minister confirmed new legal powers enabling rapid response once findings are published, without requiring new primary legislation.

The government is expected to release its formal response in summer 2026.

Why Shropshire’s Voice Is Important

Children across Shropshire are growing up in an increasingly digital landscape, and their safety and wellbeing are shared priorities for families, schools, community groups and local employers.

This consultation is an opportunity to help influence a more secure, balanced and supportive online environment nationwide. We encourage members and local residents to participate and share their views.