By Ian Tout
•
July 1, 2025
On the 25th June our CEO Karen Jefford CMgr FCMI and Youth Worker Jonathan Woodbridge attended an important event at the Sir Robert Woodard Academy (SRWA), delivered by Dr. Felicity Williams, a clinical psychologist who shared powerful insights into the impact of digital technology on young people's mental health and development. With SRWA leading the way as the first school in West Sussex to totally ban mobile phones during the school day from this September, we’re proud to stand alongside them in championing the wellbeing of young people in our community. This bold step reflects a growing awareness that we must protect and nurture young minds, not only academically but emotionally and psychologically. At Electric Storm Youth, we’ve recently recruited a dedicated Youth Worker to focus specifically on digital wellbeing, supporting young people in understanding and navigating their relationship with technology, social media, and screen time in a safe, healthy, and positive way. A Complex Picture We live in a time of rapid technological change. Today, content and influence are available 24/7; there's no longer a “watershed” to protect young eyes and minds. For children and teens, whose brains are still developing (particularly between the ages of 10 and 27), this always-on digital culture can have a huge impact. Dr. Williams highlighted how smartphones and social media have become key drivers of behaviour change and mental health challenges. While social media can foster connection and creativity, it can also expose young people to unrealistic expectations, online bullying, and a growing pressure to be "always available." Passive digital activity spending five or more hours a day on screens unrelated to learning is often replacing vital activities like outdoor play, social interaction, and restful sleep. We also heard how the teenage brain is wired to seek excitement but increasingly, the “thrill” comes from games or social media, not real-world exploration and risk-taking. Free play, challenge, and physical interaction are essential for developing emotional resilience and cognitive growth. Our Commitment As a youth charity, we are not here to criticise or control young people’s digital lives, we are here to empower them. Our goal is to help young people develop a healthier relationship with technology, one that prioritises long-term wellbeing, emotional strength, and real-world connection. We’re putting strategies and support in place, including: · Workshops and group sessions on the impact of social media, screen time, and cyberbullying. · 1-to-1 support for young people experiencing anxiety or stress linked to digital use. · Collaborative initiatives with schools, parents, and professionals to create safer digital environments. · Opportunities for free play, creativity, and real adventures that bring joy, growth, and self-confidence. The move by SRWA to ban phones during the school day is a vital piece of the puzzle, and we’re proud to support this step towards creating more mindful, focused, and mentally healthy school communities. Together, we can help young people balance the digital and the real so that technology becomes a tool for thriving, not surviving
