Macclesfield's MP has welcomed the impending ban on social media.

The UK Government has announced plans to ban social media for under 16s.

Tim Roca, the MP for Macclesfield, is in support of the move, which he feels will free youngsters of the damage that 'toxic' social media can cause.

He said: "Having listened to parents, teachers and school leaders across Macclesfield, one message has come through loud and clear: there is overwhelming support for stronger action to protect children online, including a ban on social media access for under 16s.

"I welcome the government's plans to introduce a ban on social media access for under 16s. It's a step forward to give our children their childhoods back.

"I'm fortunate to have been part of the last generation that grew up without the constant pressure of social media throughout primary and secondary school.

"Today's young people face a very different reality. Online platforms are with them every hour of the day, often bringing unrealistic expectations, harmful content and relentless pressure to compare themselves with others."

Mr Roca continued: "Parents and schools in Macclesfield have spoken powerfully about the damage toxic social media can cause.

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"It can fuel bullying, intimidation and, in some cases, violence. It can expose children to harmful content and place enormous pressure on mental health and wellbeing at a time when young people should be focused on learning, developing friendships and enjoying their childhood.

"That is why I strongly support action to create stronger safeguards for children and young people under the age of 16, alongside wider protections for older teenagers.

"These measures are about giving young people the freedom to grow up without being constantly targeted by algorithms designed to keep them online for as long as possible."

The changes will be implemented next spring (Credit: Pexels)

The first set of regulations to enforce the social media ban will be laid before the end of the year, with the changes expected to be implemented next spring.

Using a similar model as Australia, the ban will cover platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook and X.

It will not impact messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal.

Ofcom will set out in the coming months different options for effective forms of age assurance for proving whether someone is over 16 that are accurate, robust, reliable, and fair.

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Mr Roca added: "There is no doubt that these changes will be resisted by some of the world's most powerful technology companies.

"But it is not the job of Government to protect the profits of tech giants. It is our job to stand up to them when necessary and stand up for the safety, wellbeing and future of our young people.

"Tech companies must step up and take responsibility too. If they do not, the Government should act to close loopholes and strengthen enforcement.

"Technology can be a force for good, but it must work in the interests of children and families, not the other way around."