In a world dominated by social media, where algorithms amplify negativity and hate, stirring up division is a serious money-maker. That’s where we find ourselves right now.
Many of you will have seen footage last week surrounding the murder of teenager Henry Nowak in Hampshire and the riots that followed in Southampton. I’m sure you had the same reaction of disgust that I had, as Nigel Farage ignored the appeals of Henry’s family; they asked for their loss NOT be used to “create further division, hatred or tension.”
At the end of such a week, I want to take this opportunity to remind you that out there – in the real world – Cheshire is the safest county in the North West and one of the safest places in the country.
While there is no doubt that lessons need to be learned, there is also no hiding the fact that Reform has seen this as a convenient way to keep their followers angry – and engaged. The impact this has on everyone’s sense of safety is clear to see.
That’s why I believe we must act now to put rules in place to make social media safer and ban it altogether for under 16s. The technology exists, the evidence of online harm and radicalisation is growing and the consensus is there.
It’s time to get on with it.
In the weeks ahead, I’ll be sharing a further update about my campaign to make Cheshire the first county where all our high schools are mobile phone free. We’re on course to do something remarkable this September. It’s a positive step in the right direction, away from manufactured anger towards real, human connection, collaboration, and compassion. Making sure future generations aren’t failed by extremists and big tech.
Dan
Dan Price
Cheshire PCC