Victoria's listening tour for Safer Internet Day

Victoria Collins, Liberal Democrat MP for Harpenden & Berkhamsted, is embarking on a tour of local schools to hear firsthand from students about their experiences of social media and its impact on mental health. The initiative, launched to coincide with Safer Internet Day, aims to gather insights from young people and teachers on how best to protect young people online.

Discussing the importance of this tour, Victoria said:

“Whether they’re in primary school or sixth form, today’s children are growing up in a world defined by social media. I want to listen to their honest experiences—what worries them, what inspires them, and what changes they believe could make online platforms safer. Hearing directly from them is the best way to shape effective policy.”

Many children report pressure stemming from social media—ranging from online bullying to unrealistic lifestyle portrayals and expectations around body image and relationships. Victoria believes these concerns must inform the national dialogue on digital regulation and mental health support. Victoria will be starting the tour with sixth formers and aims to reach all local schools. 

And on the aims of this tour, particularly in gathering solutions and ideas, Victoria said:

“By meeting with pupils and teachers, I hope to bring their perspectives into Parliament—ensuring that future legislation isn’t made in a vacuum but shaped by real-life stories. Safer Internet Day is the perfect moment to elevate these voices.”

Next steps:

Victoria Collins will visit schools over the coming weeks and months, hosting informal discussions and Q&A sessions with young people and staff. She will then present her findings to relevant ministerial departments, urging cross-party cooperation to tackle online harms and ensure robust mental health support for young people. If any school, parent or student is particularly interested please contact victoria.collins.mp@parliament.uk