The Government’s long-awaited proposals for new internet safety laws that will require tech firms and social media platforms to prevent users from being exposed to harmful content are being introduced to Parliament.
Barnardo’s Chief Executive Lynn Perry said:
“We are delighted that the Government has responded to our concerns and will require all sites that show pornographic content to protect children by implementing age verification.
“We know from our work with children and young people across the UK that exposure to pornography can have a harmful impact on their mental health and understanding of what makes a healthy relationship.
“However, it may take up to three years for this legislation to take effect and we want to see action taken as soon as possible by commercial pornography companies to introduce age verification and protect children from accessing violent and extreme pornography.”