UK mobile phone firm advises parents not to give smartphones to children under 11

British communications firm EE Corporate has advised parents against allowing children under the age of 11 to use smartphones after recent research indicated a rise in mental health issues among children due to unfiltered exposure to social media content.

EE Corporate, one of the UK’s largest mobile network operators, recommended that children under the age of 11 should only be given mobile phones that are limited to making calls and sending messages, without internet access to social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

The company stated that while it is important for children to have a mobile phone for emergencies while commuting to and from school, there are growing concerns about social pressure and cyberbullying that can result from smartphone use.

Experts have warned that increased exposure to social media can lead to children having difficulty concentrating, limiting their interactions with friends, and avoiding physical activities.

Moreover, inappropriate online content can negatively impact children's mental health.

A recent study by the telecoms regulator, Ofcom found that nearly a quarter (one in four) of children aged 5 to 7 in the UK own a smartphone.

Ofcom's research has revealed that almost 50 percent children under the age of 13 are using social media, despite age restrictions.

For children aged 13 to 16, EE corporate affairs director, Mat Sears advised parents to monitor the social media apps their children are using. 

"We believe that social media use is acceptable for those over 13, but it is crucial to implement parental controls and privacy settings, as well as screen time limits on these platforms," he said.