A Leeds-based young people's counsellor is sharing advice for parents worried about how their children will cope with the proposed under-16 social media ban.

Lisa Norfolk, a person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist with two decades of experience in the charity sector, says many parents are already anxious about the new rules leaving young people feeling upset, frustrated or isolated.

But she says the key is how parents prepare their children for the ban, which is expected to come into force in April next year and include Tik Tok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, X, Bluesky, Reddit, Threads and Twitch.

“Rather than worrying and waiting, the key is to start to address the problem now,” says Lisa, who runs Lisa Norfolk Counselling. “Ask your children what it is that scares them most about the ban. Reassure them that your door is open without judgement – let them know that even if they do something wrong, they can always approach you.

“Don’t wait until the ban becomes law, start talking openly to your children today. Answer questions honestly and work together to help them adjust to the changes ahead of time.”

Lisa, who is registered and accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), explains there are some common signs your child may already be worrying about the upcoming ban.

“They may be concerned as to how they’ll connect with friends, or feel they have no other hobbies or distractions,” Lisa explains. “They could also be worried that they’ll no longer be able to connect with the online communities they have built up over time.

“Meanwhile, other young people report using social media to help with their studies and that it helps them feel less isolated and are left worrying there are no viable alternatives.”

As well as keeping the conversation open, Lisa’s tips for parents to help young people cope with the ban includes:
Let children know which platforms they can still use, such as WhatsApp.

Remind them of the positives of spending more time offline, such as real-life connection and switching off from school. And encourage them to find more in-person hobbies and activities.

 Set a good example yourself with screen time and social media; children mirror their parents. Encouraging more quality family time can have a ripple effect for the whole family.

Help them understand the other benefits they may experience, such as increased concentration. Author Johann Hari’s book ‘Stolen Focus’ argues that modern social media is designed to hijack our minds and destroy our ability to focus

If your child is neurodivergent offer a factual explanation, rather than saying “because it is bad” explain that the ban aims to reduce bullying or exposure to harmful content.

Lisa Norfolk

Lisa worked as a counsellor for 20 years at Leeds-based The Market Place, which provided free mental health support to young people and adults. Funding cuts forced the charity to close last September, leaving a gap in community-based youth counselling in the city.

After being made redundant, Lisa decided to set up her own private counselling practice so she could continue her unique work offering a person-centred approach with a focus on creativity in therapy. 

Her practice, Lisa Norfolk Counselling, offers counselling to young people from age 11 upwards as well as to adults at two locations in Leeds, including in Leeds city centre. She also offers online counselling.

No stranger to working under pressure, Lisa is a former GB archer whose background in competitive sport informs her understanding of performance stress and family dynamics.
https://www.lisanorfolkcounselling.com/