Telford’s Member of Parliament, Shaun Davies recently met with students from Thomas Telford School to discuss the challenges and opportunities of growing up in an increasingly digital world.
The session brought together students from Years 10 to 12 for an open and engaging discussion on social media, online safety, and the wider impact of digital platforms. The visit forms part of a wider programme of outreach led by Shaun to ensure young people across Telford are actively involved in the Government’s national consultation on social media use. During the session Shaun provided an update on the Government’s ongoing national consultation on social media use, including proposals to introduce a minimum age requirement for children accessing these platforms.
Students had the opportunity to ask Shaun questions during the discussion, where they asked how potential age restrictions could be enforced, they also made the point around the importance of finding the right balance between online freedom and safety, and the responsibilities of social media companies. In addition to digital issues, students also raised questions about civic participation, including the voting age and how young people can become more involved in the democratic process.
One student commented: “It was an insightful experience to meet Shaun Davies. I was pleased to see that our local MP takes an interest in what we have to say and is willing to debate with us. I valued the experience.”
Shaun added: “This consultation on social media use directly affects young people, so it’s vital they are part of the conversation. Over the coming months, I’ll be engaging with as many groups as possible to ensure that young people across Telford have the opportunity to share their views. I’d like to thank the students at Thomas Telford School for sharing their views and their feedback which will inform my work in parliament as I continue to stand up for Telford.”
The visit underscores the value of engaging students in national conversations that directly affect their generation, ensuring their voices are heard as decisions are made about the digital landscape, they are growing up in. Shaun has also launched an online survey for Telford constituents to share their views, which can be accessed here: Should We Ban Social Media for Under 16s? – Fill in form
