RSPCA releases statement on social media ban for under-16s after surge in disturbing copycat content
The charity claims social media platforms have been 'poisoned' by animal abuse.
The RSPCA has issued a statement on the pending social media ban for under-16s.
Millions of children in the UK will be forced off social media after the government announced it would ban under-16s from accessing a range of platforms.
Apps including TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram will become inaccessible for children, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said by next spring.
However, welcoming the news, a spokesperson for the RSPCA said that social media platforms have been 'poisoned' by animal abuse.
RSPCA Head of Public Affairs David Bowles OBE said: “Social media channels have become poisoned by images and videos which glorify animal abuse - so the RSPCA welcomes moves that better protect children from this disturbing content.
“Our Animal Kindness Index highlights that 30% of people have witnessed animal cruelty online - and social media is by far the most likely place for them to stumble upon it.
“Despite restrictions on animal cruelty content being laid down in the Online Safety Act three years ago, we know that young people are still seeing images of animal abuse; and this can desensitise them to the true animal suffering involved.”
He added: “ We’ve also seen harrowing instances of copy-cats inflicting on animals the misery they’ve seen online. That’s why the RSPCA welcomes this ban as good news for families, which can help protect Britain's status as an animal-loving nation.
“But it’s key - once any ban is in force - that social media companies continue to take seriously their responsibilities around removing content that glorifies animal violence; and give users the confidence to easily call out and report the mistreatment of animals online.”
Technology has lots of positive ways to connect young people with animals too - including the RSPCA's Animal Futures game, where families can explore how they can influence the future of animals.
But for those looking to spend more time away from their screens, the Summer of Kindness includes loads of great ideas for young people and families to help animals in their local communities.