The UK government has unveiled a £132.5 million funding package for after-school clubs, coinciding with imminent restrictions on social media use for children under 16. The initiative aims to expand access to enrichment activities such as music, debating, engineering, and sports, offering alternatives to time spent online.
Social media restrictions expected soon
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce measures limiting children's access to social media, with restrictions likely in the coming days. Options under consideration include an Australian-style ban, curfews, and limits on addictive design features. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall previously stated that a ban is "on the table."
The government's consultation on children's online safety, which closed in early June, received over 116,000 responses, with nine in 10 parents supporting an under-16 social media ban. However, implementation concerns include potential legal challenges over how platforms are classified.
Funding to support mental health
Ministers say the after-school clubs funding will help schools provide structured activities, reducing pressure on young people's mental health. A Department for Education survey of over 14,000 young people found high levels of loneliness despite digital connectivity. Ofsted will now consider a school's enrichment offer when assessing personal development.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized that access to activities should not depend on background or income. "Every child should be able to enjoy sport and the creative arts, not just the lucky few," she said. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added that the program would address inequalities in enrichment opportunities.
Challenges ahead
School leaders welcomed the government's ambitions but warned of delivery challenges. Pepe Di'Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, noted that schools face financial and staffing pressures. "Those pressures will not disappear simply because the government announces new policies," he said.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch also called for stronger action, stating, "Social media is for adults, it's not for children." The government expects the after-school program to roll out alongside broader online safety measures, with details on which platforms will face restrictions to be confirmed.
