Ofcom — the UK’s communications regulator — has launched a new consultation that could have real implications for how churches share the gospel online. The consultation, “Online Safety: Additional Safety Measures” (published 30 July 2025 and running until 20 October), is part of Ofcom’s continuing work to implement the government’s Online Safety Act. You can read the full document on Ofcom’s website here.
In this latest document, Ofcom proposes that major livestreaming platforms — such as YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and others — should be required to monitor livestreams in real time and take immediate action if they detect what is considered “hateful” or otherwise harmful content.
On the face of it, that might sound reasonable: no one wants violence or genuine hate speech being spread online. But as many readers will appreciate, the definition of “hate” is not always straightforward — particularly when it comes to discussions about moral or religious beliefs.
Ofcom’s consultation is open until 20th October, and individuals or church groups are free to submit responses. Make your voice heard — respectfully and thoughtfully — so that Christian perspectives are part of the national conversation about online safety.
