Understanding the framework and objectives of the Media Literacy Action Plan
On Wednesday 16th March, the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) published the Government’s Media Literacy Action Plan, setting out plans to strengthen media literacy over the next three years (2026-2029).
The vision is ‘for everyone in the UK to have the skills to navigate the internet confidently and make informed choices online.’
This vision is underpinned by key three principles:
- Supporting people where they are – using existing partnerships and tools and trusted places like schools, local services etc.
- Sharing and using what works – using evidence-led practice, adapting as risks and technology changes (including AI) and ‘not repeating work that’s already being done’.
- Helping everyone play their part in strengthening media literacy – working with industry, education, voluntary sector, communities and families with clarified responsibilities so people know where to access support. Making media literacy a consideration in Government policy development.
Why has DSIT launched this plan?
DSIT wants to build on the foundation of the Online Safety Act 2023 to ‘further to support children’s wellbeing and give them the childhood they deserve.’ And wants to: tackle misinformation; improve trust in the rule of law; strengthen social cohesion; reduce the impact of toxic online content; prevent online violence against women and girls; and help individuals find benefits such as communicating with others, exploring new interests and technologies, finding reliable information and safely taking part in democracy.
What actions is the government taking to achieve their vision?
Some example actions include:
- Running a dedicated media literacy campaign aimed at parents and carers, to support both adults and children to develop media literacy skills.
- Exploring an obligation on the BBC to support and improve media literacy across the UK.
- Strengthen media literacy education in the National Curriculum.
- Investment in the National Centre for Computing Education.
- Strengthening the Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance.
- Providing funding for local projects that support media literacy.
- Help school pupils to learn about deepfakes through Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education lessons.
- Through the TechFirst Youth programme, support secondary school pupils to develop advanced digital skills that can strengthen their media literacy.
For a full list of actions with timetabled dates read our more detailed summary in R.I.S.E. Magazine.