Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, has written to the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology to press for increased emphasis on reading and tangible support for children’s literature, following the UK Government’s announcement of a planned ban on social media use for under-16s.
From screens to stories: a policy moment
In his letter, Councillor Riley framed the proposed national restriction — intended to take effect by spring 2027 — as a chance to encourage young people to spend more time on play and reading rather than online scrolling. He highlighted the local work already underway in Blackburn with Darwen to promote literacy and widen access to books.
"We believe in the promise to give children back their childhoods and want every child to have the best start in life and fulfil their potential,"
Riley pointed to the borough’s Children’s Literature Festival as an example of activity that fosters a love of reading. The festival, founded by author Christina Gabbitas, celebrated its ninth year this season and, according to the council, reached thousands of children through events and workshops.
Scale of local activity
According to figures cited in the letter, the festival’s recent edition engaged more than 5,500 children and young people through in-person sessions, and distributed over 2,000 books to families that might otherwise struggle to provide them. The event also attracted writers and illustrators, including a visit from the author and poet Michael Rosen.
| Festival statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Edition | 9th |
| Children/young people reached | 5,500+ |
| Books distributed | 2,000+ |
Riley’s message frames the policy discussion beyond regulation of platforms, urging ministers to consider how children will spend any time freed from social media and how to ensure equitable access to cultural and educational alternatives.
Practical implications for local services
For councils and library services, a shift in national regulation could prompt planning around programming and resources. Blackburn with Darwen’s festival is run in partnership with the library service and volunteers; the council’s letter highlights collaboration with local authors and the potential role of libraries in delivering workshops and distributing free reading materials.
- Local literacy events can offer alternative activities to digital engagement.
- Distribution schemes for books help families who may have limited means to buy reading material.
- Partnerships between councils, authors and libraries are key to scaling outreach.
As national ministers and local authorities prepare for the proposed ban, the letter from Blackburn with Darwen’s leader adds a practical angle to the debate: policymakers should pair restrictions on social media with investment in accessible, creative alternatives that support children’s development.
Further details of the council’s proposals and any requests for additional funding or national programmes were not included in the published excerpt of the letter.
