I have taken the step, ahead of tomorrow’s meeting of the Education Committee, of writing to the Council to say it’s time to ban smartphones in schools. Letter text below.

The Letter
I am writing to share the views of my constituents regarding mobile phone usage in Edinburgh schools ahead of your committee meeting this Tuesday. As you’ll be aware, this is a matter of growing concern among parents, educators and students alike.

In July I wrote to Cllr James Dalgleish to inform him of the views of my constituents on this issue. I am keen to reiterate my findings ahead of your decision and in light of the new Scottish Government Guidance.

In recent months, I have gathered feedback from the community through an online meeting held on the 17^th of June 2025 and a survey that attracted over 500 responses. The attached short report outlines the findings of these engagements and reflects an overwhelming consensus that mobile phones should be banned in schools.

Constituents expressed deep concern about the negative impact of smartphones on student learning, mental wellbeing and social development. Feedback from constituents was clear – parents do not want smartphones in our schools.

However, respondents did raise concerns about the implementation of such a ban. These included the necessity of exemptions for neurodiverse or anxious students and worries about reduced communications between students and parents. These concerns demonstrate the complexity of any proposed ban or authority wide policy.

Should committee members wish to discuss the findings of our engagement further, I can share more information.

I am aware the report published ahead of your meeting recommends carrying out an Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) and consultation. Should this be accepted, I urge the Council to move quickly to identify a timeline for the assessment and consultation. Parents and teachers want clear and efficient progress on this issue, and schools cannot afford to wait long for further guidance.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and I trust the Council will give this issue the consideration it deserves.