Stacey Solomon shares emotional reaction to Keir Starmer's social media ban announcement: 'Finally!'

Stacey Solomon has expressed overwhelming relief following Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's announcement that children under 16 will be prohibited from using major social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.

The mother-of-five, who has been actively involved in campaigning for stricter online protections, posted a celebratory video on Instagram yesterday.

"My God, finally," she declared.

"Even just the Prime Minister acknowledging it, and bringing it forward, and making steps to make it happen is incredible."

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The television presenter revealed she had an unexpected meeting with the families of victims at her hotel the previous evening.

"When I got into my hotel last night, I met some of the families [of the victims] who were on the news this morning, because they're staying up here," she explained.

"It was just by coincidence that I got to meet them.

"I had no idea they were going to be here."

The presenter continued: "One of the mums just came up to me when I got to reception.

"What they've been through is unimaginable. They've lost their children."

Ms Solomon praised the grieving parents for their advocacy despite enduring devastating personal tragedies, describing herself as deeply thankful for their determination to protect other families.

The Loose Women star, who shares children Zachary, 18, Leighton, 14, Rex, seven, Rose, four, and Belle, three, with her older two sons from previous relationships and her youngest three with husband Joe Swash, spoke about her fears for her younger children.

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"I'm so relieved that something is finally happening," she said.

"My teenagers missed it, and social media wasn't as prevalent when they were growing up as it is now, but I worry so much about Rex, Rose and Belle."

Sir Keir Starmer stated he would not compromise on children's safety and well-being when announcing the prohibition, and declared that "social media is making children unhappy".

The ban is scheduled to come into effect by spring 2027.

The policy aims to protect children's mental health, halt addictive algorithm loops, and tackle cyberbullying.

Bereaved parents responded emotionally to the news of the ban.

Ellen Roome, whose 14-year-old son Jools Sweeney took his own life in 2022 in what she believes may have been connected to an online challenge, described the moment as powerful.

"Sitting with the other bereaved parents, we all did shed a tear," Ms Roome told the Press Association.

"We all lost our children and campaigned to make a difference for other people's children."

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