Government takes further action to protect young people from online harms

27 January 2026

The Council of Ministers is strengthening safeguards to protect children and young people from online harm.

Ministers recognise public concerns and support in principle the idea of restrictions to limit the use of smartphones and social media in under-16s.

The Law Commission has been asked to identify gaps in Jersey's legislation and bring forward recommended changes.

A Ministerial Group has been established to lead and oversee Jersey's ongoing response to online safety challenges. The Group will bring together Ministers from across relevant portfolios, enabling joined-up decisions and ensuring Jersey remains responsive to emerging risks affecting children and young people in digital spaces.

Ministers have already met with local telecommunications providers to better understand the steps they are taking to help parents reduce the risk of harm when purchasing and setting up digital devices. Discussions have focused on the advice and information currently being offered at point of sale, including the availability of parental controls and filtering tools, and how this guidance can be strengthened and made clearer for families.

The Government will continue to engage closely with industry, schools, parents, and safeguarding organisations. Work already underway will continue at pace to deliver existing commitments to strengthen protections for children and support families in the digital world.

The Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Farnham said: "Protecting children and young people from online harm is a responsibility we take extremely seriously. While important work is already under way across Government, we know that the digital landscape changes quickly, and our response must be able to change just as fast."​​