In case you missed the landmark announcement yesterday, it has been confirmed that social media is to be banned for under-16s in the UK.
That’s right – in what is said to be a bid to ‘give kids their childhood back’ and set ‘a new normal’ for future generations by kickstarting a cultural shift, the Government has announced that social media platforms will be banned from offering their services to under-16s – meaning less time for scrolling and more time for play.
The Government says it plans to use the same model for a social media ban as Australia, which was introduced back in 2024.
But what exactly does that mean? And what social media platforms are set to be included within the upcoming ban and which ones aren’t?
Well, according to the Government and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall, the UK’s ban would capture user-to-user platforms, whose purpose is to enable social interaction, allow users to post their own material, alongside algorithms.
The Government has announced a social media ban for under 16s / Credit: Julian Christ (via Unsplash)
The ban will, therefore, include popular social media platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X.
But crucially, at this time, it is not intended for messaging services like WhatsApp to be included.
The Government says it is also planning to go even further than any other country, as on top of a blanket ban on social media, world-leading blocks on harmful functions – such as livestreaming and stranger communication with children – will also be blocked for under-16s, and will apply to a wider range of online services, including on gaming sites.
Restrictions on these functionalities will also be on by default for 16- and 17-year-olds to prevent what ministers are calling a ‘cliff-edge’ at 16.
And to go even further, the Government says it will be ‘looking in more detail’ at the potential to introduce overnight curfews and breaks in infinite scrolling for those under 18 – with more information to be provided on this next month.
“This is a decisive first step which marks a clear choice to put children’s wellbeing first and give them a healthy life online,” the Government said in a statement. “We stand ready to take further measures in the future.”
Speaking on the upcoming ban and further restrictions, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever.
“I’ve heard first hand from families crying out for change and we will do right by them.
“That’s why we’re going further than any country in the world by banning social media for under-16s and putting wider protections in place to give kids their childhood back.
“This is a line in the sand. Tech giants had their chance and failed, but we’re stepping in to protect children, back parents and set a new normal for future generations.”
The famous Day Fever is back and this time it’s set to be bigger and better than ever before.
If you haven’t heard of Day Fever before, then we are about to blow your mind.
Launched in early 2024 by actress Vicky McClure and frontman of Reverend & The Makers Jon McClure, Day Fever has become somewhat of a cultural sensation.
From its debut in Sheffield to a tour that sees thousands of ravers hitting the dance floor each month, the message is clear: people want to dance and let loose, but still be in bed before 9pm. And to be honest, we don’t blame them.
Running from 3pm to 8pm, Day Fever provides a proper night out that doesn’t completely write you off for the entire weekend.
Image: Supplied
“It started as a WhatsApp idea,” says Jon McClure. “Jonny just said, ‘A daytime disco, how good would that be?’ We’re all a bit nuts, so we just said, ‘Come on then!’
“It feels like a massive house party at your nan’s,” laughs Vicky. “No drama, no egos, just people acting daft, getting dressed up, and having the best time.”
From Leeds to Newcastle, Glasgow to Manchester, every Day Fever event has its own unique flavour.
There’ll be local DJs who know their crowds keep the energy high with a nostalgic mix of Northern Soul, disco, indie, and 90s classics. “Manchester goes mad for Oasis,” says Jon, “and if Vicky’s there, we have to play Whitney, it’s non-negotiable!”
Day Fever will be turning up the speakers at Project House on Saturday 12 September, and we will absolutely see you there.
Tickets are on sale now, and you can grab yours here.
Yorkshire pub ‘delighted’ to be crowned the best in the region for 2026
Clementine Hall
There's no denying that Yorkshire does pubs properly, but one in particular has been crowned the very best.
This year's National Pub and Bar Awards have been announced, where each year a team of experts pick the very best pub in the 94 counties across the UK.
Taking the number one spot for Yorkshire and the Humber is a fabulous little pub nestled in the bustling market town of Skipton.
The Woolly Sheep Inn is an award-winning, dog-friendly pub that is known for its huge selection of Timothy Taylor's cask ales and hearty pub grub.
Not only can you eat and drink here, but they've also got a few cosy rooms for you to stay in if you're planing on a quick staycation in North Yorkshire.
But don't just take our word for how brilliant it is, here's what the National Pub and Bar Awards had to say about it: "The Woolly Sheep Inn is a vibrant town-centre pub in the heart of Skipton, offering an exceptional combination of high-quality food, outstanding drinks and comfortable accommodation – all delivered with genuine Yorkshire hospitality.
"The team prides itself on creating a warm, welcoming environment where guests can enjoy everything from a relaxed drink at the bar to a celebratory meal or overnight stay. The offer blends traditional pub values with a progressive approach to quality and service, ensuring the site appeals to both loyal locals and visitors to the area."
Announcing the exciting news, The Woolly Sheep Inn said: "We're delighted to share that The Woolly Sheep Inn has been named Yorkshire and the Humber regional winner at the National Pub and Bar Awards 2026.
"This award is a proud moment for everyone at the pub and reflects the years of hard work, care, and commitment that Andy, Drea, and the team have put into making The Woolly Sheep such a special place to eat, drink, and stay in Skipton."
You can have a look at all of the pubs that won in the awards here.
Emily Sergeant -
16th June 2026 
