King Charles has raised fresh concerns about the effect of social media on the younger generation, echoing views long championed by both Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Over the weekend, the 76-year-old monarch discussed the issue privately with Reverend Tommy MacNeil, who runs the Shed Project mental health charity. The conversation took place at Balmoral after the reverend had led a morning church service attended by the King and Queen Camilla.

Speaking afterwards, Mr. MacNeil told The Telegraph that Charles was “clearly very concerned about the negative influences on young people from social media.” He added: “It is almost impossible to police social media, so we need to find ways to combat that. The King was very engaged and 100 per cent appreciative of the work we are doing. He really understood the problems and the difficulties involved in tackling them.”

Harry and Meghan Push for Reform

The King’s comments align closely with those of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have spoken out repeatedly on the dangers of online platforms. Earlier this year, Harry and Meghan unveiled a powerful memorial in New York City dedicated to children whose families believe harmful online content played a role in their deaths.

The installation, made up of illuminated lightboxes resembling smartphone screens, displayed photographs of young people lost to the digital world. “Enough is not being done to protect our children,” the couple said, calling on tech companies to take greater responsibility.

Harry emphasized the need for change, telling the BBC: “We want to make sure that things are changed so that… no more kids are lost to social media.”

As part of their Archewell foundation, the Sussexes also established the Parents’ Network — a support system for families affected by online harm.

William’s Longstanding Campaign

Prince William, too, has placed online safety at the heart of his advocacy. Back in 2017, through the Royal Foundation, he launched the Stop, Speak, Support campaign to help young people confront cyberbullying.

The initiative created a youth-led code of conduct and practical resources, while also pressing platforms such as Snapchat and Facebook to trial stronger protections.

Together, the three senior royals’ overlapping concerns underscore a growing recognition within the monarchy that social media’s power — both positive and destructive — is one of the defining challenges for today’s youth.