Children's Charity Declares 'National Childhood Emergency' Over Online Safety Concerns

A survey reveals a significant increase in anxiety among young people regarding online hazards, prompting a call for urgent action.

On March 20, 2025, Children First, a Scottish children's charity, announced a 'national childhood emergency' amid alarming findings regarding the mental health and online safety of young people.

A recent survey, the Truth About Youth, which questioned 2,460 individuals aged 11 to 25 in Scotland, indicated that less than 25% believe that childhood today is better than it was for their parents.

In stark contrast, 40% of respondents described their childhood experience as worse.

The survey highlighted that a staggering 79% of participants expressed being 'moderately to extremely worried' about harmful online content, while 78% indicated anxiety regarding the effects of social media on their lives.

The charity reported that issues surrounding smartphone usage and mental health were prominent among respondents' concerns.

Mary Glasgow, the chief executive of Children First, emphasized the growing fears and anxiety felt by young people concerning online dangers.

She described the upsurge in distressed children seeking help from the charity as indicative of a serious issue, stating, 'The terrible reality is that the online threats to our children and young people are growing daily.'

Glasgow urged technology companies to take accountability for the safety of children online, stating that these firms should prioritize minors' safety over profit.

During recent workshops, young participants expressed significant concerns regarding cyberbullying, unwanted communication from strangers, and exposure to explicit content, further illustrating the digital landscape's complexities.

One survey participant, referred to as Jessie, noted the uncertainty of meeting people online, while another, Beth, mentioned receiving friend requests from individuals she did not know.

Children First, in response to these concerns, has made its confidential support line available to children and families, providing resources for those seeking assistance.

The Truth About Youth survey, conducted between September 2024 and January 2025, was supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery.

In reaction to the findings, Scotland's children’s minister, Natalie Don-Innes, acknowledged that while the regulation of the internet falls under the UK Government's purview, efforts to enhance online safety for children are underway.

An Online Safety Taskforce has been established to coordinate initiatives aimed at minimizing online risks for youth.

Further discussions have been held with Ofcom to reinforce the duty of technology companies in ensuring effective safeguards for minors, emphasizing a collaborative approach to legislative implementation focused on child protection.