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UK government launches £132.5m after-school clubs package amid social media concerns

From The Guardian · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The UK government announced a £132.5 million package to fund after-school clubs offering activities like sports, music, and debating.
  • This initiative aims to provide children with alternatives to screen time and support their mental health.
  • The announcement coincides with anticipated government measures to restrict social media access for under-16s.

The UK government is investing £132.5 million in after-school clubs to expand access to enrichment activities for children. These clubs will offer a range of options, from sports and music to debating and engineering, providing alternatives to time spent online. Ministers stated the program aims to support young people's mental health by offering structured activities.

The funding comes as the government prepares to announce new restrictions on social media use for those under 16. These measures could include an Australian-style ban, curfews, or limits on addictive design features. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall confirmed a ban is "on the table."

Every child should be able to enjoy sport and the creative arts, not just the lucky few.

— Bridget PhillipsonEducation Secretary Bridget Phillipson on the funding for after-school clubs.

Data from a survey of over 14,000 young people indicated that despite high digital connectivity, many report loneliness. The Department for Education highlighted this survey, suggesting a need for more offline engagement. Additionally, Ofsted will consider a school's enrichment program when assessing personal development, increasing the importance of extracurricular offerings.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized that the funding ensures access to activities is not limited by socioeconomic background. "Every child should be able to enjoy sport and the creative arts, not just the lucky few," she said. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added that the program would help address inequalities in access to enrichment activities.

Social media is for adults, it’s not for children.

— Kemi BadenochConservative leader Kemi Badenoch's statement on social media use by children.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Guardian in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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