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In January 2025, the Youth Commissioners undertook research into the perceptions of social media and the impact of online harm for the young people of the West Midlands. They spoke to those aged between 13-18, across all 7 local authority areas, through a voluntary survey and workshops.
The project looked to understand young people’s usage, behaviours, and perceptions of social media. The research explored which platforms were frequently engaged with, how much time is spent on social media and how the impacts of it.
Social media and online safety for young people is an ongoing problem as young people have increased access to online and digital platforms. This level of accessibility has led to issues around cyberbullying, hate crime, access to inappropriate and adult content, and misinformation and can cause lasting impact to mental health and a young persons’ self-perception. This research project highlighted these themes as being key issues for young people as they interact online.
Read the full report here: Youth Commissioner Research Report: The Experience and Impact of Online Harm for Young People.
2025/27 cohort
The 16 Youth Commissioners were elected in November 2025 by young people across the West Midlands.
The group are currently looking into what their focus topic for 2025/27 will be.
