{"articles":"<div class=\"article-list\"><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Cabinet Secretary&#039;s Objectives 2026-27<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service&#039;s objectives for 2026-27, as agreed by the Prime Minister\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nCabinet Secretary&#039;s Objectives 2026-27 (updated)\r\nPDF, 33.6 KB, 6 pages\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDetails\r\nThe Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service&amp;rsquo;s objectives for 20...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service's objectives for 2026-27, as agreed by the Prime Minister<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeca8103e39e22b60743579\/Cabinet_Secretary_Objectives_2026_2027__updated_.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeca8103e39e22b60743579\/Cabinet_Secretary_Objectives_2026_2027__updated_.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Cabinet Secretary's Objectives 2026-27 (updated)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 33.6 KB, 6 pages<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service&rsquo;s objectives for 2026-27, as agreed by the Prime Minister (updated November 2026).<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/cabinet-office\">Cabinet Office<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 6 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Income Tax: changes resulting from new savings and property rates<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">This tax information and impact note is about changes to the savings and property rates of Income Tax\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nChanges to legislation resulting from new savings and property rates\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nThis measure makes 6 amendments to tax legislation following the Budget 2025 announcement ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">This tax information and impact note is about changes to the savings and property rates of Income Tax<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/income-tax-changes-resulting-from-new-savings-and-property-rates\/changes-to-savings-and-property-rates-of-income-tax\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/income-tax-changes-resulting-from-new-savings-and-property-rates\/changes-to-savings-and-property-rates-of-income-tax\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Changes to legislation resulting from new savings and property rates<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This measure makes 6 amendments to tax legislation following the Budget 2025 announcement that the savings basic rate of Income Tax will increase from 6 April 2027 and that separate tax rates for property income will be introduced from the same date.<\/p>\r\n<p>It makes sure that the rules on insurers&rsquo; reporting, tax treated as paid on gains from certain foreign life insurance policies, deduction at source, calculations of trustees&rsquo; tax pools, and the Transfer of Assets Abroad legislation continue to operate as intended from 6 April 2027.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-revenue-customs\">HM Revenue &amp; Customs<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 6 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New \u2018say what you pay\u2019 law to help young people into work<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Jobseekers will no longer have to apply for jobs without knowing what they pay, under new plans announced by the Prime Minister to legally require employers to publish salaries in job adverts\r\n\r\n\r\nJobseekers will see salaries before applying under new laws requiring job adverts to &amp;ldquo;say what yo...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Jobseekers will no longer have to apply for jobs without knowing what they pay, under new plans announced by the Prime Minister to legally require employers to publish salaries in job adverts<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<h3><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37dae940f0b649cceb1841\/s300_number10.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Jobseekers will see salaries before applying under new laws requiring job adverts to &ldquo;say what you pay&rdquo;<\/li>\r\n<li>Siemens Mobility to give 10,000 young people work experience in engineering and technology<\/li>\r\n<li>PM rallies more businesses to back the Government&rsquo;s target of delivering 200,000 work experience opportunities<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Jobseekers will no longer have to apply for jobs without knowing what they pay, under new plans announced by the Prime Minister to legally require employers to publish salaries in job adverts.<\/p>\r\n<p>Too many jobseekers are still expected to apply for roles without knowing what they pay. It is estimated that less than half (41%) of employers always publish salary ranges and only 1 in 5 (18%) always publish specific salaries.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government will mandate job adverts to &lsquo;say what you pay&rsquo; by making publishing salaries a legal requirement, backing employers already doing the right thing and making openness about pay the minimum standard.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The change will tackle a common frustration for jobseekers, particularly young people applying for their first job, who can still be asked to apply without knowing what they will earn while also helping to address pay inequalities that can disadvantage women.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"prime-minister-andy-burnham-said-\">Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: &nbsp;<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Whether you&rsquo;re a young person starting out or a parent trying to support your family, you should know what a job pays before spending your time and effort applying for it. That&rsquo;s why we will make it a legal requirement for all employers to say what you pay.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"But breaking down barriers is only one part of the job. We also need businesses to open more doors and give young people the experience and confidence to take that first step into the world of work.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"It&rsquo;s fantastic to see Siemens Mobility doing exactly that, creating 10,000 opportunities in engineering and technology and inspiring thousands more children through its national science lesson.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>There is overwhelming support for greater pay transparency, with early analysis showing 94% of respondents to the government consultation backing the requirement, including 93% of businesses. Publishing salaries upfront can help expose unjustified differences in pay, give workers greater confidence to challenge discrimination and prevent disagreements over pay escalating into disputes.<\/p>\r\n<p>Applying for a first job can be daunting, particularly after time out of work or education. For young people taking their first steps into work, knowing the salary upfront helps young people focus on the right opportunities and apply with greater confidence.&nbsp;Hiding pay details also disadvantages women by forcing them to negotiate blind, leaving them more vulnerable to lower pay offers.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government will bring forward legislation as soon as possible. In the meantime, the Prime Minister is calling on all businesses to say what they pay on job ads now, rather than wait for the law to change.<\/p>\r\n<p>The changes are part of the Government&rsquo;s wider drive to get more young people earning or learning, break down barriers to work and open up more opportunities to help young people get a foot in the door. Further reforms will follow the final report of the Milburn Review into youth inactivity, due in the coming weeks.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"minister-for-women-and-equalities-bridget-phillipson-said\">Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"What a job pays is rightly at the forefront of people&rsquo;s minds when looking for work - it shouldn&rsquo;t be a guessing game.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"It&rsquo;s more important than ever today for people to know if a role will pay the bills or if you&rsquo;re qualified enough for it. Mandatory salary information on job adverts will help young people make informed choices, help close the gender pay gap, and tackle an everyday annoyance that can stand in the way of applying for a job.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Whether it&rsquo;s a young person looking for their first job or a mum getting back into work, no-one should have to enter an already daunting process salary blind.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"penny-east-chief-executive-of-the-fawcett-society-said\">Penny East, Chief Executive of the Fawcett Society said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"For too long, salary secrecy has put women at a disadvantage, leaving them negotiating in the dark and making it much harder to challenge unfair and unequal pay. Requiring employers to publish salaries in job adverts is a significant step towards making work fairer for women and tackling the gender pay gap.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Fawcett has long campaigned for greater pay transparency. The decision taken by government today is real progress. Women will no longer have to make decisions about their financial futures based on vague promises or unclear terms.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"nishi-mayor-director-of-employer-engagement--partnerships-youth-futures-foundation-said\">Nishi Mayor, Director of Employer Engagement &amp; Partnerships, Youth Futures Foundation said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"With one in eight 16-24 year olds currently not in education, employment, or training, it is right and important that Government is consulting with employers to help make the path into work smoother for young people by removing barriers to entering the workplace.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We know from our work trialling real-world practices around recruiting and retaining young people with trailblazing employers that too many young people struggle to access opportunities when they are looking for jobs.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Providing clear information about pay can help young people make informed decisions about employment opportunities, which for employers could mean more applications from more suitable candidates, ensuring they have the talent pipeline they need.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is also joining forces with a growing movement of businesses creating more work experience opportunities, helping to deliver its ambition of 200,000 additional placements for 14&ndash;16-year-olds.<\/p>\r\n<p>Siemens Mobility is the latest major employer to step up, with its new work experience programme creating more than 3,300 opportunities every year and reaching 10,000 young people over three years. Combining digital learning with hands-on experience, young people will meet engineers, tackle real-world challenges and see how advanced manufacturing, AI and digital technology are transforming Britain&rsquo;s railways.<\/p>\r\n<p>To mark the launch, the Prime Minister will join children for a national science lesson with thousands more taking part online. Through practical challenges and demonstrations, pupils will meet Siemens Mobility apprentices and engineers and discover where studying science and technical subjects could take them.<\/p>\r\n<p>The programme aims to spark interest in engineering from an early age and challenge stereotypes about who those careers are for. University College London research shows engineering aspirations diverge by age 10, with just 11% of girls aspiring to engineering careers compared with 44% of boys.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Prime Minister welcomed Siemens Mobility&rsquo;s commitment and called on more businesses to step up, building on commitments from the retail and hospitality sectors to create hundreds of thousands of opportunities for young people.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is also developing new vocational and technical routes to turn that early inspiration into a clearer path from classroom to career, giving young people the skills and experience employers need.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"aglaja-schneider-managing-director-of-siemens-mobility-uk--ireland-said\">Aglaja Schneider, Managing Director of Siemens Mobility UK &amp; Ireland, said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"I started my own career as a graduate at Siemens Mobility, so I know first-hand how important those early opportunities can be. I particularly hope today&rsquo;s lesson inspires more girls to see the possibilities that engineering and technology can offer.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"That&rsquo;s what our Tech Experience Launchpad is about. With up to 70,000 workers potentially leaving Britain&rsquo;s rail industry by 2030, investing in future talent has never been more important.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"As a key partner to the railway, we&rsquo;re investing in Britain&rsquo;s future through our people, technology and manufacturing capabilities. From the Rail Technology Centre in Wiltshire, to our Goole Rail Village in Yorkshire, our &pound;360 million investment in the UK is a powerful example of that commitment, creating opportunities in advanced engineering and manufacturing, while helping to develop the next generation of skilled talent who will build and shape Britain&rsquo;s future railways.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"rob-morris-managing-director-siemens-mobility-uk--ireland-said\">Rob Morris, Managing Director, Siemens Mobility UK &amp; Ireland, said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Britain&rsquo;s railways are changing fast. From AI and digital technology to advanced manufacturing, we need a new generation of engineers and innovators to shape their future.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Our &pound;360 million investment in Britain is about more than building world-class rail facilities. It&rsquo;s about creating skilled jobs, developing talent and strengthening the industrial capabilities Britain needs for the future.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"becky-worsey-assistant-chief-engineer-at-siemens-mobility-who-is-taking-part-in-the-stem-lesson-said\">Becky Worsey, Assistant Chief Engineer at Siemens Mobility, who is taking part in the STEM lesson, said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"As an engineer and a mum to a ten-year-old daughter that wants to have a job like mine, I want young people to see that engineering is for them. There are so many different routes into the industry and career options behind the railways people use every day.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"If children get the opportunity to meet an engineer, walk into a place like our new state-of-the-art Rail Technology Centre and understand that the science they are learning at school is being used to solve real problems, those careers suddenly become much easier to imagine.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/prime-ministers-office-10-downing-street\">Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 6 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">MHRA sets out approach to strengthen patient and public involvement and engagement in medicines and medical device regulation<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">New plan will broaden participation and make clearer how patient experience informs regulatory decisions, safety and innovation\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nPatients and the public will have a greater role in shaping medicines and medical device regulation under a new plan published today by the Medicines and Healthcar...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">New plan will broaden participation and make clearer how patient experience informs regulatory decisions, safety and innovation<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aec9818912134d4c0b52f9a\/s300_Business_people_having_meeting_in_modern_office.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Patients and the public will have a greater role in shaping medicines and medical device regulation under a new plan published today by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/patient-and-public-involvement-and-engagement-plan-2026-2030\">Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement Plan 2026&ndash;2030 (PPIE)<\/a>, a key tenet of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/mhra-strategy-2030\">MHRA&rsquo;s Strategy 2030,<\/a> sets out how the agency will involve and engage people earlier, hear from a wider range of patient groups and communities and explain openly and clearly how patients&rsquo; experiences shape its work.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Patients&rsquo; lived experience will help inform decisions at the MHRA, including the assessment of medicine benefits and risks, safety reviews, regulatory policy, patient information and the development of regulatory approaches for rare diseases, medical devices, future regulatory pathways, artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The plan supports the MHRA&rsquo;s newly-published Strategy to 2030, builds on its Patient Involvement Strategy 2021&ndash;2025 and responds to feedback calling for more inclusive participation and information on how patient involvement shapes regulatory decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Under the plan, the MHRA will:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Strengthen feedback, monitoring and reporting so people can see how their contributions have influenced the MHRA&rsquo;s work.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Expand membership of its Patient and Public Community to better reflect the diversity of the UK population.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Use deliberative engagement to ensure patient and public perspectives shape how the benefits and risks of medicines are assessed.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Involve patients and the public in work to make medicines information clearer and more accessible.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Work with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to reduce duplication in patient involvement evidence used for regulatory and health technology assessments.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Professor Anthony Harnden, Chair of the MHRA, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Our Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement Plan is a vital evolution in the way we connect and listen to patients and the public at a time when the dynamic landscape of medicines and medical devices regulation is changing rapidly.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Bringing those who matter most into the heart of our regulatory and decision-making processes, patients and the public can tell us how treatments affect their everyday lives, what benefits they value most and where information needs to be clearer. That insight helps us ask better questions and make better-informed regulatory decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Through this plan, we will involve people earlier, hear from a broader range of communities and patient demographics and explain how their contributions have influenced our work.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Patient involvement has already helped shape the MHRA&rsquo;s work on rare diseases. A dedicated advisory group of 23 patient representatives has contributed to the MHRA&rsquo;s Rare Disease Consortium, helping identify priorities, informing draft guidance and spearheading medicines repurposing.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Mercy Jeyasingham MBE, MHRA Non-Executive Director and Chair of the People and Public Engagement Committee, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This plan combines ambition with practical and achievable commitments to strengthen how we involve patients and the public in our work.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"A consistent approach across the agency will help ensure that people&rsquo;s experiences inform our work and that those contributing understand how their input has been used. The People and Public Engagement Committee will oversee progress, helping turn these commitments into meaningful and lasting improvements.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Henrietta Hughes OBE, Patient Safety Commissioner for England, said:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I welcome this plan and its commitment to putting patients&rsquo; voices at the heart of regulation. Patient experience should be central to regulatory decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Listening to a diverse range of voices, particularly those that are under-represented, provides early insight into risks and inequalities. This insight is what strengthens patient safety and helps ensure regulation reflects what matters most to the people it serves.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Karen Titchener, Patient Safety Commissioner for Scotland, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"People across Scotland have repeatedly told us how important it is that their experiences of healthcare are listened to and acted upon. Patients and families are experts in their own experiences, and their insights can help shape safer medicines, medical devices and healthcare systems.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I welcome the MHRA&rsquo;s commitment to broadening participation and involving patients earlier in decision-making. Meaningful engagement helps ensure that regulatory decisions are informed not only by clinical evidence, but also by the realities of people&rsquo;s lives.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/medicines-and-healthcare-products-regulatory-agency\">Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 6 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">International Development Minister speech at Education Cannot Wait Replenishment Conference<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Kirsty McNeill made a speech at the Education Cannot Wait Replenishment Conference on 05 November 2026. She outlined the UK&#039;s commitment to supporting the continued provision of education during times of crisis\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nYour Excellencies, colleagues and friends,\u202f\r\nI want to start by saying a very si...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Kirsty McNeill made a speech at the Education Cannot Wait Replenishment Conference on 05 November 2026. She outlined the UK's commitment to supporting the continued provision of education during times of crisis<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a9a8474f5b35599aec191fc\/Kirsty_McNeill_Official_photo_960x640.jpg\" alt=\"Kirsty McNeill MP\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Your Excellencies, colleagues and friends,\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>I want to start by saying a very sincere&nbsp;thank you to everyone here for your commitment to building a better future for children affected by crisis.<\/p>\r\n<p>For every child, education is possibility. It gives children knowledge, confidence and crucially freedom to shape their own future. Few investments are more powerful.<\/p>\r\n<p>Yet today, 258 million school aged children are affected by crisis.<\/p>\r\n<p>For so many of those children, conflict, displacement or climate shocks mean losing not just a classroom, but the stability, opportunity and hope that education represents.<\/p>\r\n<p>Education can provide safety and protection in the midst of crisis. It can equip young people with the skills to rebuild their lives and communities. And crucially, it can help break cycles of poverty, displacement and conflict.<\/p>\r\n<p>It is fundamental to human security and it reflects a belief that every human life should be cherished, and that every child should have the chance to live safely, with dignity and hope.<\/p>\r\n<p>At a time of global uncertainty, we cannot , must not lose sight of that.<\/p>\r\n<p>Needs are growing, while the resources available to respond are under immense pressure.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What we do today and what we do next is critical.<\/p>\r\n<p>Governments have a central role, but they cannot meet this challenge alone.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>That is why the United Kingdom is proud to have helped establish Education Cannot Wait, and the huge coalition that stands behind it.<\/p>\r\n<p>We are committing &pound;80 million to Education Cannot Wait for 2027 to 2030. We do so because we believe every child should have the opportunity to learn, wherever they are and whatever crisis they face.<\/p>\r\n<p>But this replenishment must be about more than raising resources. It must also galvanise the international system through which those resources are delivered.<\/p>\r\n<p>That means working in genuine partnership with countries and communities. Delivering quickly when emergencies strike, while helping education systems recover for the longer term.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>It means international organisations working together more effectively, and putting local leadership at the centre so every pound or dollar delivers the greatest possible impact for children.<\/p>\r\n<p>This is part of the wider reform the United Kingdom is championing through UN80 and the wider humanitarian reset.<\/p>\r\n<p>In a world of constrained resources, we need institutions that work smarter, cooperate more effectively, and focus relentlessly on the people they exist to serve.<\/p>\r\n<p>Because investment in education is investment in our wider security.<\/p>\r\n<p>It is investment in safer communities, stronger societies and a more hopeful future for millions of children.<\/p>\r\n<p>Together, we can ensure a child&rsquo;s future is defined by their potential, not by the crisis into which they were born.<\/p>\r\n<p>Thank you.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/foreign-commonwealth-development-office\">Foreign, Commonwealth &amp; Development Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/kirsty-mcneill\">Kirsty McNeill MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">What will childhood look like in 2040?<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Partnering with academics to explore what the future might hold\r\n\r\nThe Government Office for Science (GOS) has been looking to help policymakers think through big questions:\r\n\r\nwhat will childhood look like in 2040?\r\nwhich trends are shaping health, education and social connections?\r\nwhat does resea...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Partnering with academics to explore what the future might hold<\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae88aa5f4a6b3f59cf37552\/s300_Artboard_1_5.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Government Office for Science (GOS) has been looking to help policymakers think through big questions:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>what will childhood look like in 2040?<\/li>\r\n<li>which trends are shaping health, education and social connections?<\/li>\r\n<li>what does research already tell us, and where do we need more insight?<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>To find out, GOS&rsquo;s Foresight team has been running the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/future-of-childhood-and-adolescence\">Future of Childhood and Adolescence project<\/a>. At the start, we knew we needed expert insight from outside government, so we ran a competitive process and worked&nbsp;with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) Expert Exchange Programme to recruit academics to an 8 to 12-month secondment. We targeted different disciplines, career stages and institutions to seek diverse perspectives.<\/p>\r\n<p>Through this approach, we have recruited 3 academics who work with children and young people and specialise in health, crime and education:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Professor Niina Kolehmainen, Newcastle University<\/li>\r\n<li>Associate Professor Keri Wong, University College London (UCL)<\/li>\r\n<li>Professor Arlene Holmes-Henderson MBE, Durham University<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Each has brought new perspectives and networks to strengthen our project. Their work has responded to the rapidly changing nature of childhood, and the opportunities and risks that the change poses.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"how-we-have-worked-together\">How we have worked together<\/h2>\r\n<p>Our 3 academic secondees have:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>helped shape the project questions and priorities<\/li>\r\n<li>led the drafting of evidence summaries to make sure they are accurate, fulfil the needs of the project and are consistent with the current literature<\/li>\r\n<li>gathered ideas from their wider research networks to validate findings and sense-check evidence<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Collaboration has been important to the success of the secondments. We have co-developed approaches to the work, held weekly check-ins with opportunities for 2-way feedback,&nbsp;and run joint drafting sessions. This has helped to keep things moving, meet deadlines and share ownership. Arlene explained:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Having previously acted as an external adviser to government, the experience of being embedded in the Foresight team as a secondee has given me a much better understanding of how the Civil Service works. My expertise in humanities evidence has brought a valuable new dimension to the work of GOS.\"<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"what-we-have-gained\">What we have gained<\/h2>\r\n<p>Working with our secondees Niina, Keri and Arlene has improved how we frame the big questions and made clear which evidence matters most. They have identified gaps and helped set priorities for future research. Their work is already feeding into cross-government discussions on social media and children&rsquo;s online lives. As a Foresight team official explained:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The engagement has improved the quality and direction of our work. The secondees&rsquo; expertise has directly informed the focus of our evidence summaries. Overall, their input has significantly enhanced the project by grounding the final report in robust, well-framed evidence.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Secondees have also highlighted benefits. They said they have valued seeing how evidence shapes decision-making in government and learning how the Civil Service works.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"thinking-of-trying-it\">Thinking of trying it?<\/h2>\r\n<p>We would encourage civil servants and academics to consider secondments as a valuable way to share expertise. Here are a few practical tips from our experience:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>plan onboarding carefully &ndash; secondments fly by and it is important to get secondees embedded and working effectively in the team as quickly as possible<\/li>\r\n<li>combine academic independence with clear goals and support, and keep work rigorous and relevant &ndash; together, we mapped out timelines and expectations early<\/li>\r\n<li>consider how you will balance breadth and depth of expertise within the scope of the project<\/li>\r\n<li>keep an eye on workload, especially if secondments are part-time<\/li>\r\n<li>engage early and openly &ndash; different perspectives make the end product stronger<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Explore many types of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/routes-for-academic-engagement-with-government\/routes-for-academic-engagement-with-government#exchange-schemes\">exchange schemes and find one that is right for you on the routes for academic engagement with government page<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/government-office-for-science\">Government Office for Science<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">COP17: UK government steps up calls to tackle nature loss<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">UK welcomes progress made and remains firmly committed to reversing and halting biodiversity loss\r\n\r\n\r\nMinister pressed for global action at UN Biodiversity COP17 in Armenia to deliver progress on 30by30 and strengthen resilience\r\nUK welcomes progress made and remains firmly committed to reversing a...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">UK welcomes progress made and remains firmly committed to reversing and halting biodiversity loss<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeb6be65e68d21c19c994f2\/s300_ISC_HAC_Ministerial__2_.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Minister pressed for global action at UN Biodiversity COP17 in Armenia to deliver progress on 30by30 and strengthen resilience<\/li>\r\n<li>UK welcomes progress made and remains firmly committed to reversing and halting biodiversity loss<\/li>\r\n<li>&pound;28 million government funding announced for countries to protect nature, alongside further &pound;10 million for research tackling the causes of biodiversity loss<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The UK has renewed calls for the global community to step up action to reverse the decline of nature as the UN Biodiversity COP17 concluded.<\/p>\r\n<p>Delegates at the summit, which included Nature Minister Jenny Riddell-Carpenter and Special Representative for Nature Ruth Davis negotiated a new roadmap to accelerate the urgent action needed to tackle nature loss, including on tackling&nbsp;nature-harmful&nbsp;subsidies and incentives, increasing support for developing countries, strengthening implementation and increased monitoring. Parties also secured agreement on the critical package of decisions needed to maintain international momentum towards 2030.<\/p>\r\n<p>Nearly $2 billion in new biodiversity funding was announced by countries globally. Parties reached agreement on resource mobilisation, agreeing the need to increase finance from both public and private sources. The UK has successfully unlocked record investment in nature, and a growing number of countries are now looking to the <a href=\"https:\/\/defraenvironment.blog.gov.uk\/2026\/10\/26\/growing-places-mobilising-private-finance-for-local-nature-recovery\/\" rel=\"external\">UK&rsquo;s expertise<\/a> in balancing economic growth with nature recovery.<\/p>\r\n<p>The UK announced <a href=\"https:\/\/defraenvironment.blog.gov.uk\/2026\/10\/29\/valuing-and-investing-in-biodiversity-internationally-for-national-security-at-home\/\" rel=\"external\">&pound;28 million of continued funding<\/a> to help support countries to integrate nature in economic decision-making and attract more nature-positive investment, and a further <a href=\"https:\/\/defraenvironment.blog.gov.uk\/2026\/10\/20\/defra-launches-new-research-in-the-amazon-congo-and-coral-triangle\/\" rel=\"external\">&pound;10 million of funding for research<\/a> tackling the causes of biodiversity loss in the Amazon, Congo Basin and Coral Triangle, while supporting climate resilience and reducing poverty.<\/p>\r\n<p>Funding for these latest commitments come from the UK&rsquo;s existing international aid budget, demonstrating government&rsquo;s commitment to protecting the global ecosystems we all reply on.<\/p>\r\n<p>It was also announced at COP that two further UK companies, Disyn Biotec and Verna Earth Solutions, will contribute to the Cali Fund, a global mechanism through which companies benefiting commercially from nature&rsquo;s genetic data can contribute to biodiversity conservation. At least half of the Fund&rsquo;s resources are designated for indigenous peoples and local communities, with the remainder helping developing countries to deliver their national biodiversity commitments.<\/p>\r\n<p>Nature Minister Jenny Riddell-Carpenter said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Nature underpins our economy and food security while supporting our health and wellbeing, and it is positive that progress has been made at COP17.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The real test will be the action and delivery that now follows. This government will continue ramping up efforts to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, both at home and around the world.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside the negotiations last week, the UK announced &pound;1.94 million to support <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildlifetrusts.org\/news\/future-rothbury-estate-secured-nature-and-nation-wildlife-trusts-complete-largest-fundraising\" rel=\"external\">The Wildlife Trusts&rsquo; purchase of the Rothbury Estate<\/a>, helping to secure a nationally important landscape for long-term nature recovery and meet the target to protect and restore 30per cent of the country&rsquo;s land for nature.&nbsp; On the same day we launched a new 30by30 publication, &lsquo;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/delivering-the-30by30-commitment\">From Commitment to Conservation<\/a>&rsquo; showing how countries, communities and conservation partners are turning the global 30by30 commitment into practical conservation outcomes.<\/p>\r\n<p>The UK will continue pressing for stronger action to address the links between climate change and nature loss, while turning global commitments into practical action at home and internationally ahead of COP18 in Ecuador in 2028.<\/p>\r\n<p>Cassie Flynn, UNDP Director of Climate, Nature, Energy, and Pollution Prevention, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We welcome the UK&rsquo;s generous support for UNDP&rsquo;s work to help countries scale up finance for nature, especially focusing on private sector investments and greening subsidies.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"As the UK&rsquo;s assessment shows, the loss of nature weakens human development and risks food security, economic resilience, and national security. This contribution will help our partner countries unlock nature-positive investments at scale, spurring economic growth and jobs that deliver lasting benefits for people and the planet.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Dorothy Maseke, Nature Finance lead at FSD Africa, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We are grateful to Defra for their continued support and for their leadership in treating nature as a source of economic stability, national security, and resilience, including through the Valuing Nature Portfolio funding. Nowhere is this more true than in Africa where nature underpins so much of our economy.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"With their support we are working to reshape how the continent&rsquo;s financial sector integrates nature into policy and investment decisions. When financial institutions understand their dependence on nature, they can better value it, invest in it, and protect it.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs\">Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/jenny-riddell-carpenter\">Jenny Riddell-Carpenter MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Industrial Strategy Advisory Council annual report 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Overview of the work of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council (ISAC) one year since the publication of the Modern Industrial Strategy (IS)\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nIndustrial Strategy Advisory Council annual report 2026\r\nPDF, 15.1 MB, 78 pages\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDetails\r\nThe ISAC&amp;rsquo;s inaugural annual rep...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Overview of the work of the Industrial Strategy Advisory Council (ISAC) one year since the publication of the Modern Industrial Strategy (IS)<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeb270b88d44387aeae0693\/industrial-strategy-advisory-council-annual-report-2026.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeb270b88d44387aeae0693\/industrial-strategy-advisory-council-annual-report-2026.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Industrial Strategy Advisory Council annual report 2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 15.1 MB, 78 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The ISAC&rsquo;s inaugural annual report details the work the council has undertaken, the evidence and insights emerging from that work and issues relevant to the next phase of IS delivery.<\/p>\r\n<p>Over the last year the council has engaged extensively with industry, academia, local and national government and stakeholders to explore the issues that are most important to the Industrial Strategy&rsquo;s long-term success.<\/p>\r\n<p>The report&rsquo;s main message is that the 10-year Modern Industrial Strategy is needed now more than ever. In the context of substantial changes to the global economic environment over the year since its publication, the fundamental diagnoses and policy priorities of the IS remain the right ones. The government must now build on progress to date to deliver faster and greater impact for business.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/industrial-strategy-advisory-council\">Industrial Strategy Advisory Council<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Bovine TB control strategy for England<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Sets out our strategy for achieving bovine TB-free status in England by 2038\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nBovine TB control strategy for England\r\nPDF, 2.32 MB, 55 pages\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDetails\r\nThis document sets out our strategy for tackling bovine tuberculosis (TB) in England.\r\nThis strateg...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Sets out our strategy for achieving bovine TB-free status in England by 2038<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae35d8a83b993d8d93eb79f\/bovine-TB-strategy-2026.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae35d8a83b993d8d93eb79f\/bovine-TB-strategy-2026.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Bovine TB control strategy for England<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 2.32 MB, 55 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This document sets out our strategy for tackling bovine tuberculosis (TB) in England.<\/p>\r\n<p>This strategy was recommended by the steering group of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/groups\/bovine-tuberculosis-partnership\">Bovine TB Partnership for England<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs\">Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Our approach to recognition for V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Applies to England\r\nSummary\r\nThis consultation seeks views on Ofqual&amp;rsquo;s proposals for Criteria for Recognition for V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates. This consultation is being held on another website.\r\nThis consultation closes at 11:59pm on 17 December 2026\r\nConsu...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 id=\"summary-banner-title-40cfa665\" class=\"gem-c-summary-banner__title\">Summary<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-summary-banner__text\">This consultation seeks views on Ofqual&rsquo;s proposals for Criteria for Recognition for V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates. <br \/><br \/>This consultation is being held on <a href=\"https:\/\/ofqual.citizenspace.com\/public\/recognition-vlevels-foundation-occupational\/\">another website<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-summary-banner__text\">This consultation closes at <br \/>11:59pm on 17 December 2026<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Consultation description<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 id=\"proposals-at-a-glance\">Proposals at a glance<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<p>In June 2026, Ofqual introduced new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/criteria-for-recognition\/criteria-for-recognition-for-v-level-foundation-certificate-and-occupational-certificate\">Criteria for Recognition for V Level, Foundation Certificate and Occupational Certificate<\/a> qualifications. The new criteria are designed to support the safe introduction of these new national qualifications, to ensure that awarding organisations seeking recognition have the capacity, capability and governance required to deliver the first tranche of the new qualifications.<\/p>\r\n<p>When we introduced the Criteria for Recognition for V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates, we committed to review our approach to recognition in time for the second tranche of the new qualifications (those that will be first taught in September 2028).<\/p>\r\n<p>This consultation seeks views on Ofqual&rsquo;s proposals to:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>For V Levels, retain the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/criteria-for-recognition\/criteria-for-recognition-for-v-level-foundation-certificate-and-occupational-certificate\">Criteria for Recognition for V Levels<\/a>, at least until first award of the new qualifications, and<\/li>\r\n<li>For Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates, revert to using the original <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/criteria-for-recognition\/criteria-for-recognition\">Criteria for Recognition<\/a> for the second tranche of the new qualifications onwards<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"audience\"><br \/>Audience<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<p>This consultation is open to anyone who may wish to make representation but may be of most interest to:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>awarding organisations that intend to offer V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates, and their representative bodies<\/li>\r\n<li>schools, colleges, students, and their representative bodies<\/li>\r\n<li>further and higher education institutions and their representative bodies<\/li>\r\n<li>employers and their representative bodies<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"consultation-arrangements\"><br \/>Consultation arrangements<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h3 id=\"duration\">Duration<\/h3>\r\n<p>This consultation will open on 5 November 2026 at 9:30am and end on 17 December 2026 at 11:59pm.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"respond-online\">Respond online<\/h3>\r\n<p>Responses should be submitted through the <a href=\"https:\/\/ofqual.citizenspace.com\/public\/recognition-vlevels-foundation-occupational\/\" rel=\"external\">online consultation platform<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"other-ways-to-respond\">Other ways to respond<\/h3>\r\n<p>If for exceptional reasons you are unable to use the online consultation platform, for example because you use specialist accessibility software that is incompatible with the platform, you may request an alternative format. Please email <a href=\"mailto:consultations@ofqual.gov.uk\">consultations@ofqual.gov.uk<\/a> to request this. For information on how Ofqual will use and manage your data, please see the annex.<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/foreword-by-sir-ian-bauckham-cbe-the-chief-regulator-at-ofqual\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/foreword-by-sir-ian-bauckham-cbe-the-chief-regulator-at-ofqual\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Foreword by Sir Ian Bauckham CBE, the Chief Regulator at Ofqual<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: Ofqual\/26\/7391\/1<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/introduction\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/introduction\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Introduction<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: Ofqual\/26\/7391\/2<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/proposals\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/proposals\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Proposals<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: Ofqual\/26\/7391\/3<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/regulatory-impact-assessment\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/regulatory-impact-assessment\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Regulatory impact assessment<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: Ofqual\/26\/7391\/4<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/equality-impact-assessment\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/equality-impact-assessment\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Equality impact assessment<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: Ofqual\/26\/7391\/5<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/annex-privacy-notice-for-consultations\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/our-approach-to-recognition-for-v-levels-foundation-certificates-and-occupational-certificates\/annex-privacy-notice-for-consultations\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Annex: Privacy notice for consultations<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: Ofqual\/26\/7391\/6<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ofqual\">Ofqual<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">RSH data indicates increase in social housing tenant satisfaction<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Social housing landlords in England have reported an increase in the average level of tenant satisfaction across the sector\r\n\r\nTenant Satisfaction Measures (TSM) results released today by the Regulator of Social Housing saw an average increase from 72% last year to 74% for 2025\/26 for tenants living...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Social housing landlords in England have reported an increase in the average level of tenant satisfaction across the sector<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/667012bdfed5bd09e5195ab1\/s300_Untitled_design__24_.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/tenant-satisfaction-measures\">Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSM) results<\/a> released today by the Regulator of Social Housing saw an average increase from 72% last year to 74% for 2025\/26 for tenants living in low-cost rental accommodation (LCRA).<\/p>\r\n<p>Telephone surveys remain the most widely used collection method. Overall satisfaction has increased in every collection method, including by telephone where the proportion of tenants reporting they are satisfied overall has increased from 71% to 73%.<\/p>\r\n<p>The TSMs are collected from all large social landlords &ndash; those with 1,000 homes or more.<\/p>\r\n<p>They allow tenants to scrutinise their landlord&rsquo;s performance, give insights to landlords on where they might improve their services, and provide a source of intelligence for regulation.<\/p>\r\n<p>The 2025\/26 data also shows that landlords have reported improvements in their repairs and maintenance services, with 83% of non-emergency repairs completed on time in 2025\/26, compared to 77% in 2023\/24.<\/p>\r\n<p>Average (median) satisfaction with the timeliness of repairs has risen from 67% in 2023\/24 to 73% in 2025\/26, the largest increase across the tenant perception TSMs.<\/p>\r\n<p>Satisfaction with the maintenance of the home has increased from 71% to 74% over the same period.<\/p>\r\n<p>The vast majority of homes owned by large landlords, as at 31 March 2026, had required gas (99.7%), fire (98.9%), asbestos (98.7%), water (98.2%) and lift safety checks (98.0%) completed. These have each increased since TSMs began in 2023\/24, with asbestos, water and lift safety having the comparatively largest increases.<\/p>\r\n<p>And 86% of over 319,000 stage one complaints made during 2025\/26 were responded to within the Housing Ombudsman&rsquo;s Complaint Handling Code timescales. This has increased from 73% in the first year of collection (2023\/24).<\/p>\r\n<p>The TSMs also provide landlords with valuable information as to how services might be further improved. Around one in six (16%) of LCRA tenants surveyed are dissatisfied with the overall service from their landlord.<\/p>\r\n<p>Overall average (landlord median) satisfaction for low-cost home ownership (LCHO) remains lower (50%) than LCRA, showing that landlords have work to do to improve services and satisfaction for shared owners.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Kate Dodsworth, RSH Deputy Chief Executive, said: &ldquo;The TSM results are based on feedback from almost half a million tenants, providing the most comprehensive view of tenant satisfaction across large social landlords in England.<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;The increased level of tenant satisfaction reported by landlords underlines the value of landlords listening to tenants, understanding the issues that matter most to them and using those insights to improve services.<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;Tenant feedback is one of the most important tools landlords have for assessing performance. The challenge now is to continue turning that insight into tangible improvements for residents.&rdquo;<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/regulator-of-social-housing\">Regulator of Social Housing<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Veteran support centre network to more than double across the UK<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">An estimated one million veterans and their families in the UK will benefit from easier access to local, thanks to the expansion of the VALOUR network from 14 to 34 organisations\r\n\r\n\r\nVeteran support centre network to more than double as part of the &amp;pound;50m VALOUR system rollout\r\n&amp;pound;13.2m is ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">An estimated one million veterans and their families in the UK will benefit from easier access to local, thanks to the expansion of the VALOUR network from 14 to 34 organisations<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/63495d468fa8f5346732690e\/s300_ministry-of-defence-building.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Veteran support centre network to more than double as part of the &pound;50m VALOUR system rollout<\/li>\r\n<li>&pound;13.2m is being distributed to 21 organisations across the UK to give veterans and their families easier access to healthcare, jobs and housing<\/li>\r\n<li>Veterans Minister visited site in Aldershot&nbsp;ahead of Remembrance Sunday&nbsp;to thank the armed forces community and those who support them<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey MBE MP visited&nbsp;Citizens Advice Rushmoor in Aldershot&nbsp;on Monday 2 November&nbsp;to meet staff and the local veterans they are supporting. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Earlier this year, 14 organisations were awarded over &pound;13m to launch the first wave of VALOUR-recognised centres.&nbsp;Citizens Advice Rushmoor is one of 21 organisations receiving a share of over &pound;13.2m of funding to launch the second wave of centres by the beginning of 2027.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>VALOUR has been designed to help the UK&rsquo;s estimated two million veterans get the support they need through VALOUR-recognised centres, a helpline service or on GOV.UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"prime-minister-andy-burnham-said\">Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"It is a privilege to be able to honour our veterans, not just as we mark Remembrance Day, but year-round as we remember the service and the sacrifice of those who fought for the lives we live today.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I&rsquo;m incredibly proud to see the VALOUR network grow to provide support to more veterans and their families - those who have given so much to protect communities across the country.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"minister-for-veterans-and-people-calvin-bailey-mbe-mp-said\">Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey MBE MP said:&nbsp;<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, I&rsquo;m pleased that we can pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of our armed forces community by giving veterans easier access to the support they need, regardless of where they are in the UK.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I&rsquo;ve heard wonderful stories of how centres like Citizens Advice here in Rushmoor are making a real difference to people&rsquo;s lives. Joining the VALOUR system will help them support even more veterans and their families.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"calum-stewart-ceo-of-citizens-advice-rushmoor-said\">Calum Stewart, CEO of Citizens Advice Rushmoor, said:&nbsp;<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Becoming a VALOUR-recognised centre is a huge step for Citizens Advice Rushmoor and for the veterans we support in Aldershot - Home of the British Army - and beyond. No veteran should have to navigate support alone. We know that good advice can make a lasting difference, helping people understand their options, resolve problems, and move forward with confidence.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Through our network of local Citizens Advice charities across the South East, we bring together trusted advice, local knowledge and strong community connections. As part of the VALOUR system, we&rsquo;ll build on those strengths to help more veterans and their families access joined-up advice and support, getting the right help at the right time so they can live independent and stable lives.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>VALOUR is overseen by a headquarters in the Office for Veterans&rsquo; Affairs (OVA) within the Ministry of Defence. It will bring together national oversight, regional coordination and local delivery to improve how services work together.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>VALOUR field officers are also working regionally to strengthen collaboration between partners such as councils, local public services and charities.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The continued roll out of VALOUR demonstrates the government&rsquo;s delivery of the 10-year Veterans Strategy, which aims to celebrate, contribute and support those who serve and have served. Funding for VALOUR is included in the Defence Investment Plan.<\/p>\r\n<p>Twenty-one lead organisations are receiving &pound;13,260,580 of development funding in round 2, with &pound;26,516,357 million granted in total. They will join the first round of 14 organisations announced in March 2026, and are:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Poppy Factory&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Sir Oswald Stoll Foundation&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Age UK Waltham Forest&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Mid Suffolk Citizens Advice Bureau&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Stevenage Borough Council&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Defence Medical Welfare Service charity&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Veterans Support Northern Ireland&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Adferiad&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Monmouthshire County Council&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>City of York Council&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Leeds City Council&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Herefordshire Veterans Support Centre&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>The Veterans Contact Point&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Loughborough Wellbeing Centre&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>CVS Lincolnshire&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Citizens Advice Rushmoor&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>The Lantern Trust (Weymouth)&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Wiltshire Council&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Westmorland &amp; Furness Council&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Dover District Council&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>East Durham Veterans Trust &ndash; will receive additional funding in round 2&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/valour.campaign.gov.uk\/\" rel=\"external\">Read more about VALOUR<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-defence\">Ministry of Defence<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/office-for-veterans-affairs\">Office for Veterans' Affairs<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/calvin-bailey\">Calvin Bailey MBE MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Government bid to make England TB-free by 2038, with vaccines for cattle and badgers<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">No badgers culled due to the disease in 2026 &amp;ndash; first year in over a decade with no culling\r\n\r\nThe Government is winning its battle against bovine TB &amp;ndash; with the number of new TB herd breakdowns in England down by a fifth compared to the previous 12 months and no badgers culled for the fir...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">No badgers culled due to the disease in 2026 &ndash; first year in over a decade with no culling<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeb0c23e87b2eb305b3ef7e\/s300_Farmland_with_farmhouse_and_grazing_cattle.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is winning its battle against bovine TB &ndash; with the number of new TB herd breakdowns in England down by a fifth compared to the previous 12 months and no badgers culled for the first time in over a decade.<\/p>\r\n<p>Progress in the fight back against the devastating disease comes as the Government (Thursday 5th November) formally adopts a long-term strategy, aimed at eradicating TB from England altogether by 2038.<\/p>\r\n<p>The multi-faceted approach includes the development of vaccines for cattle and badgers, mandatory blood tests, more robust wildlife surveillance and more test choice.<\/p>\r\n<p>Developed in partnership with experts and stakeholders, including farmers, vets and scientists, the <a href=\"https:\/\/tbhub.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/2026-Recommended-Bovine-TB-Strategy.pdf\" rel=\"external\">strategy<\/a> sets out a clear direction of travel as its long-term plan to tackle bovine TB in England. It was originally published in June and will now be formally taken forward by government.<\/p>\r\n<p>Bovine TB\u202fremains\u202fone of the most significant animal health challenges we face. The disease continues to impose a heavy emotional and financial burden on farming families, disrupt rural businesses and leads to the loss of thousands of cattle every year.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The announcement comes as encouraging progress is being made in tackling bovine TB, with herds losing TB free status in England falling by a fifth over the past year and 2026 marking the first year in more than a decade in which no badgers were culled as part of efforts to control the disease &ndash; delivering on a manifesto pledge to end the cull.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"biosecurity-minister-baroness-hayman-said\">Biosecurity Minister Baroness Hayman said:&nbsp;<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Bovine TB has devasted our farming communities, causing heartbreaking losses, uncertainty and financial hardship. No farmer should have to accept this disease as an unavoidable part of their livelihood.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Our comprehensive strategy will ensure the continuation of the end to badger culling, and prevent the spread of this horrific disease.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Work is already underway on several key measures set out in the strategy, including:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Cattle vaccination: Continuing the development of a deployable cattle vaccine alongside a new skin test to detect infected animals from vaccinated animals, (DIVA), with an ambition to deploy cattle vaccination by 2030&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Improved disease testing: Expanding the government-funded mandatory blood testing and piloting additional privately funded testing to help detect infection.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Badger vaccination: Rolling out vaccination in priority areas through the newly contracted Badger Vaccination Field Force.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Wildlife surveillance: Introducing a new government-funded scheme to collect and test found dead badgers to improve understanding of the disease.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The government will also establish a new industry-government board to replace the existing Bovine TB Partnership for England, bringing together government and industry to oversee delivery of the strategy. The board, expected to be established in 2027, will consider and endorse the first delivery plan, setting out the priority actions needed to tackle the disease and how they will be implemented<\/p>\r\n<p>The government will continue working with farmers, veterinary professionals and other partners to deliver a coordinated approach to tackling bovine TB, helping to protect animal health and reduce the impact of the disease on rural communities.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs\">Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/baroness-hayman-of-ullock\">Baroness Hayman of Ullock<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Plan to drive down homelessness for young people leaving care<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Government sets out new Action Plan to reduce homelessness for care-experienced young people, building on PM&amp;rsquo;s pledge to tackle rough sleeping\r\n\r\nYoung people who have been in care will be better protected from falling into homelessness with new duties on councils to support young people as th...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Government sets out new Action Plan to reduce homelessness for care-experienced young people, building on PM&rsquo;s pledge to tackle rough sleeping<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/69de23bb3e81003ae042250c\/s300_DfE_Sanctuary_Building_London_office.jpeg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Young people who have been in care will be better protected from falling into homelessness with new duties on councils to support young people as they step out of care and towards independent living.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Care Leaver Homelessness Reduction Action Plan, launched at the start of Care Leavers Month 2026, declares that no young person should become homeless when they leave care. It also gives clear new duties to local authorities to prevent that from happening.<\/p>\r\n<p>Currently, too many young people lose their support overnight when they leave care. Without family to fall back on, they can face poor mental health, money worries, a lack of jobs or education, and too few suitable homes.<\/p>\r\n<p>Under new rules, local authorities are required to publish their plans for care leavers&rsquo; accommodation needs, work with housing partners, and support those at risk of homelessness in their local offer for care leavers. Additionally, certain care leavers under 25 can no longer be found intentionally homeless, which is currently a barrier to getting much-needed assistance that fails to reflect their particular circumstances.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Plan also encourages local authorities to publish local targets and what support is available for young people at risk of homelessness and commits targeted support and advice to areas of higher risk, overseen by MHCLG youth homelessness advisers.<\/p>\r\n<p>It follows the Prime Minister setting out his confidence last week that everyone sleeping rough will be offered a route off the streets before Christmas, as he brought businesses, charities and local leaders together for the first Rough Sleeping Summit at Downing Street to drive further action from across society. At the Budget, the government also announced new funding to sustain this support through the rest of this Parliament.<\/p>\r\n<p>Children&rsquo;s Minister Josh MacAlister said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Supporting young people who have been in care is a vital part of our national mission to end rough sleeping.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Too many care leavers step into adulthood without a strong support network around them, and homelessness can be one of the tragic consequences.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We&rsquo;re changing children&rsquo;s social care from top to bottom, making enduring relationships the focus of the system and expanding support for care leavers to help ensure they have a place to call home.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Minister for Homelessness, Florence Eshalomi, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Our commitment to tackling homelessness is about so much more than offering a bed to sleep in, or a roof over someone&rsquo;s head: it&rsquo;s about preventing people from ever reaching that point in the first place.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re launching this plan to make sure young people leaving care don&rsquo;t face a cliff edge just when they need support most.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"These measures will give care leavers the support and opportunities they need as they move out of care and start their adult lives.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The number of care leavers aged 18 to 24 in England has risen to 86,890, up almost 10% in two years, and they remain over-represented in the homelessness system. The plan aims to halve the proportion of care experienced people who are homeless.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government&rsquo;s Action Plan:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>builds on rules introduced in the Children&rsquo;s Wellbeing and Schools Act this year, under which local authorities are required to publish their plans to support care leavers at risk of homelessness in their local offer, and certain care leavers under 25 can no longer be found intentionally homeless. Wider rules mean they also no longer have to meet local connection tests to get social housing;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>expects councils to publish clearly what housing and support they offer care leavers, to plan ahead for their accommodation needs and to work with local housing teams;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>brings together the guidance, tools, resources and support available to local authorities and their partners to help strengthen local prevention activity, including a new guide for councils entitled Planning Housing Pathways for Care Leavers, updated <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/joint-housing-protocols-for-care-leavers\">guidance on joint working between housing and children&rsquo;s services<\/a>, guidance on young people who stay with their foster carers after 18, a new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/preventing-youth-homelessness-self-assessment-toolkit\">youth homelessness prevention toolkit<\/a>, and a new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/homelessness-code-of-guidance-for-local-authorities\/chapter-22-young-people-including-those-with-care-experience\">Homelessness Code of Guidance youth chapter<\/a>. In 2027, there will be updated guidance on social housing allocations;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>introduces a new &pound;3m Test, Learn, Grow programme focussed on youth homelessness prevention<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The plan builds on the Children&rsquo;s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026. Staying Close, which helps care leavers find and keep a safe home and access health, education and work up to the age of 25, is already running in 50 areas and will become a national duty on councils for care leavers up to 25 from 2029.<\/p>\r\n<p>From autumn 2027, government departments and public bodies will also become corporate parents, with a duty to work together with councils to support care leavers.<\/p>\r\n<p>The new Plan also follows the government&rsquo;s Review of early deaths of care leavers, published on 25 August, which highlighted the isolation many young people face when they leave care.<\/p>\r\n<p>Seyi Obakin, Chief Executive Officer at Centrepoint said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We warmly welcome the Government&rsquo;s spotlight on care leavers as they continue to face a greater risk of experiencing homelessness.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We know that the number of care leavers aged 18&ndash;20 assessed as facing homelessness in England increased by 37% over the past five years. These young people often leave care without the safety net of a family or supportive network around them and need help to transition into adulthood.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Roughly 48% of the young people we support have been in care. They often have no choice but to deal with the challenges and responsibilities of living independently at a young age, so the launch of this new action plan will help focus efforts and provide an important opportunity to strengthen the support available to them.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We stand ready to play our part and work collectively with Government and our partners to make sure it&rsquo;s implemented.&nbsp; For us, this means ensuring young people have access to safe, stable and genuinely affordable housing, alongside the financial, practical and emotional support they need to sustain a home and build an independent life.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Every young person deserves the solid foundations of a home from which to thrive and build a future.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Louise Mumcular, Policy Officer at Coram said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We welcome publication of the government&rsquo;s Care Leaver Homelessness Reduction Action Plan. For too long, care experienced young people have faced disproportionately high risks of homelessness, often at a time when they are navigating the challenges of adulthood without the support networks many of their peers rely on. Every year our Coram Voice advocacy service provides support to hundreds of care leavers every year across the country, and housing is the most common issue for which young people seek support.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"The commitments announced today are important steps in the right direction. We particularly welcome the government&rsquo;s recognition that no young person should become homeless as a result of leaving care.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Ambitious national targets will only be achieved if they are backed by sufficient investment, consistent implementation across local areas, access to suitable and affordable housing, and meaningful support that helps young people sustain tenancies and thrive. It will be particularly important to strengthen support at key transition points and moments of vulnerability, such as when young people move home, leave education or training, or experience a breakdown in living arrangements. Every care-experienced young person must have not just a roof over their head, but a safe, stable and supportive home.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-education\">Department for Education<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/josh-macalister\">Josh MacAlister OBE MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Communities to get a stronger say over billions of pounds of water investment<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Eight new regional water councils will put communities at the heart of decisions on tackling sewage, flooding, drought and securing future water supplies\r\n\r\nCommunities across England will get a bigger say over how water companies invest in their area under plans to put more power in local hands.\r\nE...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Eight new regional water councils will put communities at the heart of decisions on tackling sewage, flooding, drought and securing future water supplies<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeb64885e68d21c19c994e6\/s300_Adobe_Express_-_file.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Communities across England will get a bigger say over how water companies invest in their area under plans to put more power in local hands.<\/p>\r\n<p>Eight new regional water councils will bring local leaders, customers and businesses together to set the priorities for their region, helping shape billions of pounds of investment in water and flood infrastructure.<\/p>\r\n<p>Decisions about the water system are taken nationally, despite communities facing very different challenges. From Lake Windermere, where discharge of sewage has damaged local tourism, or in Cambridge, where drought and water shortages have stalled growth &ndash; local areas have not had enough influence over the decisions that directly affect them.<\/p>\r\n<p>The new councils will change that, giving communities and local leaders a stronger voice over priorities including sewage and water quality, flooding, drought and future water supplies. Mayors will also receive new powers through the strengthened Water Bill to hold water companies to account for their performance.<\/p>\r\n<p>The reforms are part of the Prime Minister&rsquo;s drive to move power out of Westminster and give communities greater control over the services and investment that shape their lives.<\/p>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I know how desperate people are for change when it comes to water. I share their frustration at seeing sewage and pollution blight our rivers, lakes, and seas, while decisions about their local areas are taken miles away.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"That&rsquo;s not right. So for the first time, local people will have a real say over what they need from their water company, whether that is cleaning up polluted rivers, building new reservoirs or protecting homes from floods.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"That is what moving power closer to communities looks like. Making sure local voices are heard and local priorities come first.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Existing regional partnerships have already shown what can be achieved when decisions are shaped around local needs. Greater Manchester&rsquo;s Integrated Water Management Plan has brought together planning, regulation and investment, with improved drainage helping support town-centre regeneration. In East Anglia, Water Resources East has brought partners together to tackle severe water scarcity, including the constraints it places on sustainable growth in Greater Cambridge.<\/p>\r\n<p>The eight new regional water councils will build on that approach and embed it across England.<\/p>\r\n<p>Local leaders have been asked to submit proposals on how they want to run the new bodies by the end of the year. Each council will then draw up a plan setting out the biggest pressures on its region&rsquo;s water system, the choices that need to be made and the public and private investment that can help address them.<\/p>\r\n<p>Environment Secretary, Dame Angela Eagle, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"For decades, the water industry has failed to work for the people and places it was meant to serve.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I am determined to put the public at the heart of decision-making &ndash; shaping what their bills will be spent on, so they can see real differences happening in their communities.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I share the country&rsquo;s desire to see change now, and that&rsquo;s why we are creating a radical new water system that will put public interest first.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>This comes after the Environment Secretary took the unprecedented step of setting clear expectations for the next Price Review, warning water companies they must provide better value for money for struggling households.<\/p>\r\n<p>Government is pushing ahead with reforms to overhaul a system in which shareholders never lose and customers never win. Water companies are being held to higher account with new powers for automatic fines, and the introduction of criminal liability for water bosses who cover up or hide sewage spills.<\/p>\r\n<p>Further details on the Government&rsquo;s approach to the water industry will be set out in the 10-year plan for Britain, to be published later this year.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs\">Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/angela-eagle\">The Rt Hon Dame Angela Eagle DBE MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Stronger laws for police using facial recognition technology<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">New laws to govern the use of groundbreaking technology and maximise public safety\r\n\r\nFacial recognition technology that helps police catch thousands of dangerous criminals every year will be subject to tough new safeguards to ensure that the technology is used fairly and safely.&amp;nbsp;\r\nAn independe...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">New laws to govern the use of groundbreaking technology and maximise public safety<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/669fa7f5ab418ab055592b21\/s300_2MS_Home_Office_sign_-_landscape.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Facial recognition technology that helps police catch thousands of dangerous criminals every year will be subject to tough new safeguards to ensure that the technology is used fairly and safely.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>An independent watchdog will be created to provide independent oversight of police use of current and future technologies &ndash; and could potentially stop forces from using them if they fail to comply.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>It will also be made clear that any technologies used by law enforcement must be rigorously and independently tested against bias or discrimination of age, gender or race.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>And a specific law will be introduced to make it clear that police use of facial recognition must be intelligence led and proportionate, so it is only used when officers believe wanted people could be present in an area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>These changes follow a public consultation, which highlights that &ndash; while there is strong support for its use and its effectiveness in catching offenders &ndash; there is a need for stronger safeguards around the extent of its use.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Facial recognition technology has been the biggest breakthrough for catching criminals since DNA matching, already helping police take thousands of dangerous criminals off our streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"The benefits are clear, but we must ensure that its use is fair, safe and proportionate.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"It is right we put in place clear laws to ensure that the use of this technology is watertight, so the public can have confidence that these tools, which are vital to our safety, are used responsibly too.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Facial recognition has a proven track record in taking sex offenders and rapists off the streets and is doing crucial work to support the government&rsquo;s mission to halve violence against women and girls in a decade.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Static live facial recognition cameras piloted in Croydon between October 2025 and March 2026 led to 173 arrests, including suspects wanted for rape, kidnap and sexual assault. The Met reported a 10.5% drop in overall crime in the area against the previous year, and a 21% decrease in offences linked to violence against women and girls.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Facial recognition technology has also been used to support police in managing registered sex offenders in the community. At this year&rsquo;s Notting Hill Carnival, police used the technology to stop 86 registered sex offenders, leading to the arrest of 7 offenders who were found to be in breach of civil orders or notification requirements.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Al Murray, Director of PoliceAI, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Facial recognition technology is one of a number of proven capabilities that can help policing work more effectively to keep the public safe. Used responsibly, technologies like this can help officers identify wanted offenders more quickly, make better use of available information and focus more time on protecting victims and communities.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The benefits of technology adoption are greatest when innovation is matched by strong safeguards, transparency and public accountability. We welcome the government&rsquo;s commitment to providing a clearer framework for the use of facial recognition, helping forces adopt technology consistently, responsibly and with the confidence of the public they serve.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>While there are already legal requirements in place for facial recognition, they are set out across a vast patchwork system and in need of a clear, consistent set of laws.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The new watchdog will advise on standards, provide scrutiny and make recommendations to ministers on emerging technologies and risks. In extreme cases where forces fail to comply with regulations, it can pursue enforcement action which could see them handed a court injunction preventing them from using these technologies.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>In consultation with this new regulator, the government will develop a new legal code of practice for police to set clear standards and rules that all forces must abide by.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>In addition, a separate legal code for the private sector will be developed to make sure that businesses using facial recognition to tackle crime, including shops, are using it responsibly and complimentary to law enforcement efforts.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Today&rsquo;s measures follow an &pound;11 million investment to triple the number of live facial recognition vans available to police forces in England and Wales. This is part of the government&rsquo;s biggest reforms to policing in 200 years to help keep communities safe.<\/p>\r\n<p>Neil Basu QPM, former head of Counter Terrorism Policing, said:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Live facial recognition is a massive step forward for law enforcement &ndash; a digital 21st century step change in the tradition of fingerprints and DNA.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Like all new technologies, live facial recognition had a difficult start and the consultation was absolutely necessary to ensure this new technology was acceptable to the wider public.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"With a real police officer making the final decision a human one, and with the proper legal safeguards and independent oversight in place, I have no doubt LFR will catch many more criminals and make us all much safer.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Dal Babu, former Chief Superintendent at the Metropolitan Police,\u202fsaid:\u202f\u202f&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Safe use of facial recognition is a valuable tool for effective policing. I am therefore pleased to see significant and meaningful engagement with the public to ensure public confidence its use to protect communities and arrest criminals. I therefore strongly welcome these commitments from the government.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The Home Office has independently tested a new algorithm for retrospective facial recognition proven to be highly accurate and without bias which will be available for police forces to roll out from next year. The algorithm used for the live facial recognition vans funded by the government has already been independently tested.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Sue Daley, Director of Tech and Innovation at techUK, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Facial recognition is a powerful technology that offers real opportunities for law enforcement, but it&rsquo;s right that the public&rsquo;s concerns are properly addressed.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"As set out in our consultation response earlier this year, our members support clear, consistent regulation for this technology. This will be crucial to establish and maintain public support in the long-term. We look forward to continuing our work with the Home Office to make that happen.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/home-office\">Home Office<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 5 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">The employment of disabled people 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">These statistics give a detailed analysis and breakdowns of the number of disabled people in employment\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nThe employment of disabled people 2026\r\nRef: ISBN 978-1-80786-051-6\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nData tables: the employment of disabled people 2026\r\nODS, 5.83 MB\r\nThis file is in an OpenDocum...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">These statistics give a detailed analysis and breakdowns of the number of disabled people in employment<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/the-employment-of-disabled-people-2026\/the-employment-of-disabled-people-2026\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/the-employment-of-disabled-people-2026\/the-employment-of-disabled-people-2026\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">The employment of disabled people 2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-80786-051-6<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aea16350641e871642b80b8\/employment-of-disabled-people-2026.ods\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aea16350641e871642b80b8\/employment-of-disabled-people-2026.ods\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Data tables: the employment of disabled people 2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">ODS, 5.83 MB<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">This file is in an <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/using-open-document-formats-odf-in-your-organisation\" target=\"_self\">OpenDocument<\/a> format<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>These statistics relate to the employment of working-age disabled people in the UK.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-work-pensions\">Department for Work and Pensions<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Report on the proposed Strategic Charging Infrastructure Scheme by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Subsidy Advice Unit (SAU) has published its report prepared in response to a request from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) concerning the proposed Strategic Charging Infrastructure Scheme\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nFinal report\r\nPDF, 284 KB, 24 pages\r\nDetails\r\nThe SAU...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Subsidy Advice Unit (SAU) has published its report prepared in response to a request from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) concerning the proposed Strategic Charging Infrastructure Scheme<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aea00b30243022607c49ac8\/Final_report.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aea00b30243022607c49ac8\/Final_report.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Final report<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 284 KB, 24 pages<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The SAU has published its report providing advice to OZEV concerning the proposed Strategic Charging Infrastructure Scheme.<\/p>\r\n<p>The report includes the SAU&rsquo;s evaluation of OZEV&rsquo;s assessment of compliance of its proposed scheme with the requirements set out in the Subsidy Control Act 2022.<\/p>\r\n<p>For more information visit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/cma-cases\/referral-of-the-proposed-strategic-charging-infrastructure-scheme-by-the-office-for-zero-emission-vehicles\">Referral of the proposed Strategic Charging Infrastructure Scheme by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/subsidy-advice-unit\">Subsidy Advice Unit<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New Chair appointed to the National Savings and Investments Board<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Luke Jensen has been appointed as the Chair of the National Savings and Investments Board\r\n\r\nThe Minister for Pensions announced today (4 November 2026) that Luke Jensen has been appointed as the Chair to the National Savings and Investments (NS&amp;amp;I) Board, following a fair and open competition ru...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Luke Jensen has been appointed as the Chair of the National Savings and Investments Board<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37db09e5274a79051c9235\/s300_HMT_buiding_plaque.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Minister for Pensions announced today (4 November 2026) that Luke Jensen has been appointed as the Chair to the National Savings and Investments (NS&amp;I) Board, following a fair and open competition run by HM Treasury.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Luke&rsquo;s three-year term began on 2 November 2026. Luke has sat on the NS&amp;I Board since 1 April 2024 and was Interim Chair following Lord Gerard Lemos CMG CBE stepping down as Chair in July 2025, following his appointment to the Whip&rsquo;s Office within the House of Lords. Luke brings a wealth of experience to the role from his senior executive and non-executive career across a range of retail and consumer-focused environments. Luke is currently a non-executive director for the Co-operative Group and a Senior Advisor to the Board at Eat Happy Hana Group.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Minister for Pensions said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I am pleased to appoint Luke Jensen as Chair of the NS&amp;I Board, strengthening the organisation&rsquo;s leadership and oversight. Luke will continue to support NS&amp;I in providing cost-effective finance for the Government, progressing its remediation scheme following its recent bereavement claims issue, and driving forward its transformation programme.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>NS&amp;I Interim Chief Executive, Sir Jim Harra, said:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I welcome Luke Jensen&rsquo;s appointment as NS&amp;I&rsquo;s new Chair. He has the experience and leadership to ensure that NS&amp;I remains a vital source of government funding and a key part of the UK savings market.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-treasury\">HM Treasury<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/torsten-bell\">Torsten Bell MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Dr Ewan Kirk appointed MOD\u2019s Director Innovation<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Technology entrepreneur joins National Armaments Director Group, bringing more than 30 years of experience across science, finance and industry\r\nDr Ewan Kirk, the new Director Innovation in NAD Group\r\nDr Ewan Kirk has been appointed the MOD&amp;rsquo;s new Director Innovation.\r\nHe will lead UK Defence I...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Technology entrepreneur joins National Armaments Director Group, bringing more than 30 years of experience across science, finance and industry<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aeb1010f5e5450408b3ef84\/s300_Dr_Ewan_Kirk_headshot.PNG\" alt=\"\" \/><br \/>Dr Ewan Kirk, the new Director Innovation in NAD Group<\/p>\r\n<p>Dr Ewan Kirk has been appointed the MOD&rsquo;s new Director Innovation.<\/p>\r\n<p>He will lead UK Defence Innovation (UKDI), part of the newly designed National Armaments (NA) Innovation area which sits under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/news\/mod-appoints-its-first-director-general-innovation\">Director General Innovation Anthony Reeves<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>NA Innovation brings together some 4,800 experts and scientists in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/uk-defence-innovation\">UKDI<\/a>, the Defence Investment Unit, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/defence-science-and-technology-laboratory\">Defence Science and Technology Laboratory<\/a> (Dstl) and the Defence Uncrewed Systems Centre (DUSC). It has a ringfenced &pound;1.6 billion defence innovation budget over the next four years (UKDI), as well as supporting &pound;2.1 billion of investment in core science and technology.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Led by Dr Kirk, UKDI will support the NAD Group&rsquo;s commitments under the Strategic Defence Review, including delivering innovative capability at rapid pace and creating economic growth through increased production, export opportunities and jobs, while ensuring innovation remains at the heart of UK military capability.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>With UKDI being the single point of contact for industry to engage with defence on innovation challenges and opportunities, Dr Kirk will build relationships with the UK&rsquo;s technology sector, venture capitalists and private equity investors.<\/p>\r\n<p>He will also work with academia and international partners, including NATO allies.&nbsp;His other responsibilities will include fostering close relations on innovation and capability development with the Front-Line Commands&rsquo; Rapid Capabilities Offices such as Rapstone, NavyX and others.<\/p>\r\n<p>Rupert Pearce, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/rupert-pearce\">National Armaments Director<\/a>, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Ewan&rsquo;s appointment is a significant step in making innovation central to how Defence delivers for our Armed Forces, one of the pillars of the SDR. UKDI gives industry, investors and academia a single front door to work with us, and Ewan has the scientific depth and commercial experience to make that real.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"If we can leverage the extraordinary inventiveness of the UK economy, Defence can gain sustained capability advantage over its adversaries, providing us with enhanced deterrence.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Working alongside Anthony Reeves and the wider National Armaments Innovation team, Ewan will help us deliver innovative defence capability quickly, keep our Armed Forces ahead of their adversaries and turn defence innovation into jobs, exports and growth across the UK.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Dr Kirk is currently a Non-Executive Director of BAE Systems, Chairman of DeepTech Labs and Chairman of the Management Committee of the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences.<\/p>\r\n<p>Commenting on his appointment, Dr Kirk said:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Innovation thrives when the best ideas can move quickly from the lab to the front line. I&rsquo;m delighted to join the National Armaments Group and look forward to working with Rupert, with Anthony Reeves, the UK&rsquo;s technology sector, investors, academia and our NATO allies to bring cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and cyber, into military service as quickly we can.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Since UKDI was formed in early 2025, John Cunningham has led the organisation as interim director, building UKDI from a concept&nbsp;into an operational organisation embedded within the NAD Group.<\/p>\r\n<p>During this time, UKDI has delivered innovative capability to the front line, strengthened the national innovation ecosystem across all stakeholders, built a portfolio of exciting projects and created the strong foundations for UKDI&rsquo;s next phase of growth and impact.<\/p>\r\n<p>This appointment of the new UKDI Director directly supports the UK Armed Forces, keeping their war-fighting advantage while promoting national prosperity through defence and dual-use technologies, such as artificial intelligence and cyber, and through private investment.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-defence\">Ministry of Defence<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Anti-fraud lessons rolled out across schools in England<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Children will learn how to spot fraud and protect themselves from financial and sexual exploitation, as new lessons are offered to schools across the country\r\nSchools across the country will introduce&amp;nbsp;anti-fraud lessons to protect children from financial exploitation and prevent them from becom...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Children will learn how to spot fraud and protect themselves from financial and sexual exploitation, as new lessons are offered to schools across the country<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p>Schools across the country will introduce&nbsp;anti-fraud lessons to protect children from financial exploitation and prevent them from becoming &lsquo;money mules&rsquo;.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Specialist classes will provide children aged 10 to 18 and their parents with guidance on how to spot warning signs, as well as&nbsp;educating them on the methods criminals use to target teenagers.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Victims are often coerced by criminals who offer seemingly legitimate job opportunities to make quick cash, getting them to transfer funds into their bank account and then out to another, in return for a small percentage. In reality, they are unsuspecting victims targeted by fraudsters to move their dirty money around and evade law enforcement.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>This can have devastating impacts on young people, who could face prosecution and have their bank accounts blocked indefinitely. It can lead to serious consequences in the future such as struggling to secure student loans, difficulties finding employment and accessing housing.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The rollout comes amidst a rising trend known as &lsquo;money muling&rsquo;, with recent figures showing there were 22,000 incidents reported in 2025. One in 5 cases involved someone under the age of 21. Fraud generally is rising sharply across the country and now constitutes 47% of all surveyed crime in England and Wales, with more than 1 in 20 youngsters aged 16 to 24 becoming victims of fraud.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Police and safeguarding teams are also increasingly receiving reports from young people of financially motivated sexual extortion &ndash; known as &lsquo;sextortion&rsquo;. This sees someone forced into paying or moving money after a criminal has threatened to release sexual or intimate images of them. It is a rising trend carried out by criminal groups based outside the UK.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The new teaching resources&nbsp;deliver on a key commitment in the Fraud Strategy&nbsp;and&nbsp;have been offered in addition to the new RSHE curriculum, published earlier this year. It sets out actions the government, law enforcement and industry are taking to dismantle criminal networks, bring offenders to justice and protect the public.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Lord Hanson, Minister for Fraud said:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Financial exploitation is an abhorrent crime and can have devastating impacts on a young person&rsquo;s future.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This can include having bank accounts blocked or restricted, making it harder for them to secure a student loan or even a mortgage in the future.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Prevention is a key part of our Fraud Strategy, which is why we have rolled out these lessons to children and parents to help increase awareness and reduce the chances of them being exploited by scammers.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>James Simmonds-Read, National Prevention Programme Manager for The Children&rsquo;s Society said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"These resources give young people something they told us they need: a clear understanding of what financial exploitation is, where to go for help and reassurance that if it happens to them, it is never their fault.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Lessons alone won&rsquo;t stop financial exploitation, but helping young people recognise it and know where to turn is an important part of protecting them.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The extra guidance for teachers, parents and carers is also crucial to enabling them to spot the warning signs and get children help as early as possible.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The government-funded lessons have been designed by specialist police officers from the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit, in collaboration with the PSHE Association.&nbsp;Teachers can use these resources in&nbsp;RSHE lessons and will help develop pupils&rsquo; knowledge of what money laundering and financial exploitation is, and how to report it to the right person.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Guidance will also be issued to teachers, parents and carers about the different types of scams that criminals are using, how to spot warning signs and where to access specialist support if needed.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>This vital education tool sits outside of the statutory curriculum and&nbsp;comes as part of the government&rsquo;s Fraud Strategy.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>By investing &pound;250 million to strengthen the fight against fraud and launching a new Online Crime Centre, the government is bringing together police and industry, to shut down the avenues that fraudsters exploit, wherever in the world they might be.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Monica Perry, PSHE Association Subject Specialist said:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Children and young people are increasingly encountering scams, fraud, money laundering and other forms of financial exploitation. These lessons support schools to deliver key safeguarding education about these issues in a preventative, age-appropriate and empowering way.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Developed to meet the new RSHE requirements, the activities ensure pupils understand what financial exploitation is, the laws surrounding it and how to seek support.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Chief Superintendent Joe Anthony, City of London Police&rsquo;s Head of National Cyber Crime Team and NPCC lead for Fraud and Cyber Protect,&nbsp;said:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We support this work created by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Fraudsters increasingly target young people of all ages, making early prevention activity more important than ever. Working with regions and local forces, the National Fraud and Cyber Protect network has come together to deliver vital advice on fraud, cyber crime and financial exploitation.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with high levels of engagement both in person and online. We will continue to work with the Home Office and other partners to equip young people with the tools they need to protect themselves with initiatives like this playing a vital role in building safer, more resilient communities.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Regional Assistant Chief Constable to the South West Police Collaborations, Andy Hill said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We know that criminals seeking to financially exploit people online are targeting children as young as 10 through gaming platforms, social media and messaging apps. Developed by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) and endorsed by the PSHE Association, this educational programme provides vital, age-appropriate learning to help young people recognise and understand the risks of financial exploitation in a safe and supportive environment. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Prevention starts with education. By giving young people the knowledge and confidence to recognise suspicious approaches, stay safe online and speak to trusted adults, we can help protect them from becoming victims of crime.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I am proud to see SWROCU leading this important work, helping to protect communities from the devastating impact of fraud.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/home-office\">Home Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/david-hanson\">The Rt Hon Lord Hanson of Flint<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Carer&#039;s Allowance: call for evidence<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Read the full outcome\r\n \r\nCarer&amp;rsquo;s Allowance call for evidence: summary of findings\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nCarer&amp;rsquo;s Allowance call for evidence: summary of findings (PDF)\r\nPDF, 1.64 MB, 26 pages\r\n \r\nCarer&amp;rsquo;s Allowance call for evidence: summary of findings (large print)\r\nPDF, 430 KB, 52 pages\r\n \r\n...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Read the full outcome<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/outcome\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-summary-of-findings\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/outcome\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-summary-of-findings\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer&rsquo;s Allowance call for evidence: summary of findings<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae1c9c2460c1346f7be77d3\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae1c9c2460c1346f7be77d3\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer&rsquo;s Allowance call for evidence: summary of findings (PDF)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 1.64 MB, 26 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae1c9f539d29f3f9b9b3ef2\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome-large-print.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae1c9f539d29f3f9b9b3ef2\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome-large-print.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer&rsquo;s Allowance call for evidence: summary of findings (large print)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 430 KB, 52 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae1c9df088f42d99bbe77d2\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome-easy-read.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae1c9df088f42d99bbe77d2\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome-easy-read.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer&rsquo;s Allowance call for evidence: summary of findings (Easy Read)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 2.98 MB, 18 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae9f996c4e9914878121f4f\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome-welsh.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae9f996c4e9914878121f4f\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-outcome-welsh.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Cais am Dystiolaeth ynghylch y Lwfans Gofalwr: crynodeb o ganfyddiadau<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 584 KB, 28 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Detail of outcome<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has published a summary of findings from the Carer&rsquo;s Allowance Call for Evidence. The report summarises the views, experiences and evidence shared by individuals and organisations that responded.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you need this report in an accessible format, including Braille, British Sign Language (BSL) or audio, please contact <a href=\"mailto:carer.callforevidence@dwp.gov.uk\">carer.callforevidence@dwp.gov.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<hr class=\"govuk-section-break govuk-section-break--visible govuk-section-break--l\" \/>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Original call for evidence<\/h2>\r\n<h2 id=\"summary-banner-title-272824e8\" class=\"gem-c-summary-banner__title\">Summary<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-summary-banner__text\">This call for evidence is being administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to gather information and views to build on the Department&rsquo;s existing evidence. What we hear will help shape future thinking about how Carer&rsquo;s Allowance can be modernised.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-summary-banner__text\">This call for evidence ran from <br \/>9:30am on 7 July 2026 to 11:59pm on 18 August 2026<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Call for evidence description<\/h2>\r\n<p>This call for evidence is aimed at organisations and individuals who have information that is relevant to how Carer&rsquo;s Allowance could be modernised, including through an earnings taper, the role of the earnings rules and how they operate in practice.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Review welcomes evidence and insight from individuals and organisations with lived or learned experience, knowledge and expertise. Evidence can take many forms and could include written submissions, existing data or unpublished analysis or reports.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"accessibility\">Accessibility<\/h3>\r\n<p>This call for evidence is available in accessible versions including British Sign Language (BSL), Easy Read, audio, Braille, large print and Welsh translation.<\/p>\r\n<p>To request a Braille version or physical copies of other accessible versions of this call for evidence, email us at <a href=\"mailto:carer.callforevidence@dwp.gov.uk\">carer.callforevidence@dwp.gov.uk<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>If you would like to send an attachment or find out about other ways to respond (for example, by audio), email us at <a href=\"mailto:carer.callforevidence@dwp.gov.uk\">carer.callforevidence@dwp.gov.uk<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>You can also use this email address to respond to the call for evidence if your response exceeds the maximum character limit of&nbsp;the online form.<\/p>\r\n<p>You can submit a video in&nbsp;BSL&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:carer.cfebsl@dwp.gov.uk\">carer.cfebsl@dwp.gov.uk<\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"data-protection-and-confidentiality\">Data protection and confidentiality<\/h3>\r\n<p>The Department for Work and Pensions will analyse and summarise responses and may use artificial intelligence to assist with the handling of responses &ndash; this will be under human oversight and will not replace human judgement in the consideration of evidence.<\/p>\r\n<p>An anonymised version of your response may be published in a list of responses, in a summary of responses received, and in any subsequent review reports. We may also share your personal data where required to by law, for example in relation to a request made under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. We will remove information which could identify you, such as email addresses and telephone numbers from these responses, but apart from this we may publish responses in full. You can leave out personal information from your response entirely if you would prefer to do so.<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer's Allowance: call for evidence <\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a27e924d4d0ad06d946b2\/Call_for_Evidence.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a27e924d4d0ad06d946b2\/Call_for_Evidence.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer's Allowance: call for evidence<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 278 KB, 8 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a281c5ca06bf11ccb43e0\/ERUK_Carers_Allowance_Call_for_Evidence.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a281c5ca06bf11ccb43e0\/ERUK_Carers_Allowance_Call_for_Evidence.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Changes to Carer's Allowance: tell us what you think form (easy read)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 2.54 MB, 21 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-audio\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-audio\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer's Allowance: call for evidence (audio)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a4881908b618a53703017\/LP_Call_for_Evidence_Carer_s.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a4881908b618a53703017\/LP_Call_for_Evidence_Carer_s.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer's Allowance: call for evidence (Large Print)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 869 KB, 15 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-bsl\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence\/carers-allowance-call-for-evidence-bsl\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carer's Allowance: call for evidence (BSL)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a488e24d4d0ad06d946d3\/Welsh_Web_Accessible-_Call_for_Evidence.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a488e24d4d0ad06d946d3\/Welsh_Web_Accessible-_Call_for_Evidence.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Lwfans Gofalwr: galwad am dystiolaeth<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 278 KB, 9 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a48985ca06bf11ccb4409\/_LP_Welsh_Call_for_Evidence_Ca.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a48985ca06bf11ccb4409\/_LP_Welsh_Call_for_Evidence_Ca.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Lwfans Gofalwr: galwad am dystiolaeth (Print Mawr)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 260 KB, 15 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-work-pensions\">Department for Work and Pensions<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Secretary of State hails PSNI anniversary as a &#039;major milestone&#039;<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Secretary of State pays tribute to the courage of serving and former officers as the PSNI marks its 25th anniversary\r\n\r\nAcknowledging the 25th anniversary of the formation of the PSNI, Secretary of State Sir Chris Bryant, said:\r\n&quot;The 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Police Service of...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Secretary of State pays tribute to the courage of serving and former officers as the PSNI marks its 25th anniversary<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6708fb1de84ae1fd8592f1ec\/s300_NIO_Gov.uk_banner.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Acknowledging the 25th anniversary of the formation of the PSNI, Secretary of State Sir Chris Bryant, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"The 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) marks a major milestone in the history of Northern Ireland.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"A quarter of a century ago, Northern Ireland embarked on a path to deliver a modern, accountable, and representative police service capable of attracting and sustaining the support of the whole community. It was a core pillar of the vision set out in the Belfast Agreement.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Twenty-five years on, there has been a significant transformation in policing.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I pay tribute to all the men and women from across Northern Ireland who have stepped forward to serve their communities with courage, professionalism and integrity, and dedicated themselves to keeping the public safe.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I also pause to remember those officers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty over the last 25 years, as well as those who served before them in the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Their sacrifice, and the sacrifice of their families, will never be forgotten.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Policing has faced profound challenges, but the fundamental principle of policing by consent remains the bedrock of a peaceful and prosperous Northern Ireland.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"To all who serve and have served in the PSNI, thank you for your unwavering commitment to public service.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/northern-ireland-office\">Northern Ireland Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/chris-bryant\">The Rt Hon Sir Chris Bryant MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">\u201cWe must keep up the pressure\u201d: Environment Secretary forms new Waste Crime Crackdown Group<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Ministers, police, Mayors and local authorities join forces to target organised waste crime\r\n\r\nThe net is closing on the criminal gangs behind illegal dumping, as Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle today (4 November 2026) brings police, regulators and local leaders together to step up enforceme...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Ministers, police, Mayors and local authorities join forces to target organised waste crime<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6aea0f5fa45504d226c49ac9\/s300_Shot_4_Blurred__0-00-04-11_.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The net is closing on the criminal gangs behind illegal dumping, as Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle today (4 November 2026) brings police, regulators and local leaders together to step up enforcement against waste crime.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The new Waste Crime Crackdown Group will drive forward action by identifying the weaknesses in the waste system that criminals exploit and removing blockers for change. They share one aim: to shut down the organised waste gangs.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Illegal waste sites are a stark example of what happens when enforcement fails and criminals are allowed to exploit weakness in the system, leaving communities to pay the price.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The Prime Minister has been clear that this must be reversed, with a crackdown on criminal activity to ensure the waste system works for the communities it is supposed to serve.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>At the first meeting, members will discuss ramping up enforcement against the gangs profiting from illegal dumping and improving how they share intelligence. The Secretary of State will ask the Group to examine where enforcement powers can go further to leave no stone unturned in shutting down criminal organisations.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Enforcement is already getting tougher, as since April this year already 36 arrests have been made, with prosecutions, investigations and raids taking place across the country.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>EA officers are using more drones to hunt down criminals, while Mayors are being given a bigger role in tackling waste crime in their area and fines have increased for those who dump illegally.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The illegal sites at Kidlington and Hoad&rsquo;s Wood have also been completely cleared and police have arrested suspects while investigations continue. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"environment-secretary-dame-angela-eagle-said\">Environment Secretary, Dame Angela Eagle said:&nbsp;<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"For too long communities have been left to live with the consequences of waste crime. I am changing that.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Our tougher enforcement is already showing results with arrests ramping up. But these are organised criminals and we must keep up the pressure to disrupt their operations. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The new Waste Crime Crackdown Group brings police and industry leaders together to share intelligence and close every loophole. Our message to criminals is clear: we&rsquo;re closing in.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"philip-duffy-chief-executive-of-the-environment-agency-said\">Philip Duffy, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, said:\u202f&nbsp;<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Getting organised criminals out of our waste system needs everyone to work together: police, regulators and local government. By sharing more intelligence, we can stop criminals getting their hands on waste in the first place.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"In recent months we have toughened our approach and it&rsquo;s paying off already, with more than 30 arrests, assets seized and permits stripped from unscrupulous operators.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"With loopholes tightened, new powers and financial support from the Government, we are working closely through this Group to make a real difference to communities affected by waste crime.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The government has taken significant action to tackle waste crime, such as:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>ensuring rogue actors who dump waste illegally or fail to treat it correctly face fines of up to &pound;5,000.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>planning to give Environment Agency powers to confiscate cash, cars, houses and other assets bought with the proceeds of waste crime.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>tightening Waste Permit Exemptions so only low-risk waste activities can benefit.&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Work continues to clear some of the country&rsquo;s other most egregious illegal waste sites, including Bolton House Road in Wigan and Midland Road in Bradford.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs\">Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/angela-eagle\">The Rt Hon Dame Angela Eagle DBE MP<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Child Trust Fund injustice to end under Government plans<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Young people lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions will finally have easier access to their Child Trust Funds\r\n\r\n\r\nEasier access to savings for thousands of young adults lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions\r\nFamilies spared complex and lengthy court process under...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Young people lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions will finally have easier access to their Child Trust Funds<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae9da40a45504d226c49a6a\/s300_calculator-iStock-000056693326.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Easier access to savings for thousands of young adults lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions<\/li>\r\n<li>Families spared complex and lengthy court process under new reforms<\/li>\r\n<li>Part of Government&rsquo;s plan to create a fairer Britain for everyone<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Young people lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions will finally have easier access to their savings, ending a long-standing injustice that has created unnecessary barriers for families.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Following years of campaigning and legal difficulties faced by families, new legislation will be introduced by the Government to allow simpler access to Child Trust Funds, replacing the complex and often costly Court of Protection process.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The reforms are expected to allow parents and carers to go directly to Child Trust Fund providers to access savings, solving years of unnecessary anguish for an estimated 63,000 to 126,000 young adults.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Child Trust Funds were introduced in 2005 to provide children a financial boost as they start adulthood, but the scheme made no provision for 18-year-olds who lacked the mental capacity to manage their finances without a straightforward way to access their savings.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Campaigners, disability charities, and the financial services sector will help shape the new process, protecting young people while pulling down barriers that have frustrated families for years.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Justice Minister, Jake Richards said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Young people who lack the mental capacity to make financial decisions should be able to access their savings as easily as possible &ndash; especially when this money was put aside by loved ones to help them take their first steps into adulthood.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This is simply an injustice that we&rsquo;re finally putting right and as campaigners have argued for years, change is long overdue. This legislation will ensure this group of young adults no longer face difficulty from accessing money that is rightfully theirs.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Rt Hon Lucy Rigby KC MP, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"The changes that we&rsquo;re introducing will help tens of thousands more young people to connect with their Child Trust Funds &ndash; worth on average &pound;2,600 each.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I&rsquo;m so pleased that we will finally ending this long-standing injustice and I&rsquo;m grateful to everyone who has worked with us to make this happen.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government will work with various stakeholders to explore how the new process is designed, including who can access funds, what evidence is required and what proportionate safeguards are necessary to protect young people who lack mental capacity without creating unnecessary and costly red tape.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The scheme won&rsquo;t replace the important work of the Court of Protection, which will remain available as an alternative route to protect the financial interests of adults lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government will bring forward an amendment to the Financial Services and Markets Bill to enable the new scheme, with the details to be set out in secondary legislation following Parliamentary approval.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Anna Bird, CEO of Contact says:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We warmly welcome the government&rsquo;s commitment to legislate for a simpler way for young disabled people to access savings in Child Trust Funds. For too long, tens of thousands of young disabled people and their families have faced a complicated and costly process to access money that rightfully belongs to them.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This marks a significant breakthrough after six years of determined campaigning led by parent carer Andrew Turner, whom Contact has proudly supported. We congratulate Andrew and all the parent carers who have campaigned to bring about this change.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We thank the Minister, Jake Richards MP for listening and committing to act. We look forward to working with families, the government and financial providers to turn this commitment into a straightforward scheme with appropriate safeguards.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Andrew Turner, parent campaigner, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This bold move from the government is extremely positive news for tens of thousands of young people who have been locked out of their Child Trust Fund savings.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"By removing the barriers that make it hard for people to invest in child savings schemes for disabled children, you also create the opportunity to build a stronger financial foundation for their future.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"A simpler process for accessing these savings will release millions of pounds of benefit and help reduce the administrative burden on parents supporting a disabled child.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I am extremely grateful to Minister Richards and the government for their commitment to solving this long-running issue and look forward to working with them to deliver a much-needed solution.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-justice\">Ministry of Justice<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-treasury\">HM Treasury<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/jake-richards\">Jake Richards MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/lucy-rigby\">The Rt Hon Lucy Rigby KC MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 4 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Health trends in England<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">This report presents trends in data on the health of people in England, including risk factors, disease prevalence and outcomes\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nHealth trends in England\r\nhttps:\/\/fingertips.phe.org.uk\/static-reports\/health-trends-in-england\/England\/overview.html\r\nDetails\r\nT...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">This report presents trends in data on the health of people in England, including risk factors, disease prevalence and outcomes<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/fingertips.phe.org.uk\/static-reports\/health-trends-in-england\/England\/overview.html\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/fingertips.phe.org.uk\/static-reports\/health-trends-in-england\/England\/overview.html\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Health trends in England<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">https:\/\/fingertips.phe.org.uk\/static-reports\/health-trends-in-england\/England\/overview.html<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This report presents information about the health of people in England and how this has changed over time. Data is presented for England and English regions.<\/p>\r\n<p>It has been developed by the Department of Health and Social Care and is intended to summarise information and provide an accessible overview for the public. Topics covered have been chosen to include a broad range of conditions, health outcomes and risk factors for poor health and wellbeing. These topics will continue to be reviewed to ensure they remain relevant. A headline indicator is presented for each topic on the overview page, with further measures presented on a detailed page for each topic.<\/p>\r\n<p>All indicators in health trends in England are taken from <a href=\"https:\/\/fingertips.phe.org.uk\/\" rel=\"external\">a large public health data collection called Fingertips<\/a>. Indicators in Fingertips come from a number of different sources. Fingertips indicators have been chosen to show the main trends for outcomes relating to the topics presented.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you have any comments, questions or feedback, contact us at <a href=\"mailto:pha-ohid@dhsc.gov.uk\">pha-ohid@dhsc.gov.uk<\/a>. Please use &lsquo;Health Trends in England feedback&rsquo; as the email subject.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/office-for-health-improvement-and-disparities\">Office for Health Improvement and Disparities<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New plans \u201cresurrect\u201d genuine pensions for millions of private sector workers<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Around 17 million private sector workers now saving into a pension will be given the option of an income in retirement, closing the gap with pensions seen in the public sector, under government plans for default pensions launched today\r\n\r\n\r\nPrivate sector workers to enjoy a pension that lasts throug...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Around 17 million private sector workers now saving into a pension will be given the option of an income in retirement, closing the gap with pensions seen in the public sector, under government plans for default pensions launched today<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae9a6b25b14ba0182a272b1\/s300_20261103-Pensions-PN.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Private sector workers to enjoy a pension that lasts throughout retirement, something public sector workers take for granted.<\/li>\r\n<li>Automatic enrolment got private sector workers saving, now the next step in rebuilding workplace pensions is a default pension for life.<\/li>\r\n<li>DC savers to be given a new option, offering many of the benefits of DB pensions, with introduction of retirement collective pensions.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Over the last 30 years, the vast majority of private sector Defined Benefit (DB) pension schemes, that once provided an inflation protected income for life in retirement, have closed.<\/p>\r\n<p>The introduction of Automatic Enrolment means nine in 10 eligible private sector workers are now saving, up from four in 10 in 2012. But the vast majority are saving into Defined Contribution (DC) pensions and are left entering retirement with a savings pot rather than a route to a genuine pension that provides a secure income that lasts throughout their later life.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is now acting to resurrect the option of genuine pensions for all private sector workers. Guided Retirement will bring back pensions that pay an income, often inflation protected, for the entirety of your retirement without the need for complex financial decisions.<\/p>\r\n<p>This is the latest part of the Government&rsquo;s agenda to fundamentally reform the UK&rsquo;s offer to today&rsquo;s workers who are tomorrow&rsquo;s pensioners. It combines a sustainable State Pension that is the foundation of later-life income, real pensions that all workers pay into during their working lives to enjoy in retirement, and a new National Care Service that will be there for people when they need it.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"minister-for-pensions-torsten-bell-said\">Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Private sector workers deserve a much better deal when it comes to pensions. They are doing the right thing and saving for retirement, but when they get there too many are left without a genuine pension.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We are resurrecting proper pensions for private sectors workers, guaranteeing them the option of an income that last throughout retirement and in many cases protection against the rising cost of living - things public sector workers take for granted.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We are going to give pensions back to the people who are working hard and saving for their retirement.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Speaking at the Association of British Insurers (ABI) Long-Term Savings Conference, Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell announced two consultations:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Guided Retirement, published jointly with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Pensions Regulator, on how default pensions should work in practice.<\/li>\r\n<li>Retirement Collective Pension Schemes, on draft regulations so these schemes can be used as a default pension under Guided Retirement.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Guided Retirement will require pension schemes to provide a default pension for savers approaching retirement. After years of saving into a DC pension, savers will have the option of a stable income for the rest of their lives, without having to become investment experts overnight.<\/p>\r\n<p>The need for this is clear. In 2025\/26, around 46% of first-time pension pot accesses involved the pot being fully withdrawn and this is not just a UK challenge, with many countries, including Australia leaving individuals facing risk and fear in retirement. Guided Retirement will close that gap by requiring pension providers to offer a genuine pension that protects people from the risk of outliving their savings.<\/p>\r\n<p>Pensions schemes will do more of the heavy lifting for their members, with, for example, Retirement Collective Pension Schemes (RCPS) pooling risk to deliver stability and growth and providing a fully managed pension people can rely on for life.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is publishing its response to the policy consultation on RCPS today, alongside draft regulations to enable providers to offer them as a default pension.<\/p>\r\n<p>Choice remains at the heart of the approach. For those savers who want a different option, they will always be free to choose. But for those who do not want to navigate complex decisions alone, Guided Retirement will ensure they get a good deal and a reliable income for the whole of their retirement.<\/p>\r\n<p>The consultations sets out how default pensions, including Retirement Collective Pension Schemes, should be designed and delivered, how schemes should support members approaching retirement, and how to keep the framework practical. It seeks views on these plans.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"therese-chambers-executive-director-at-the-financial-conduct-authority-said\">Therese Chambers, executive director at the Financial Conduct Authority, said:<\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"People should not have to navigate complex pension decisions alone. Guided retirement will offer a simpler way to turn savings into income, regardless of which workplace pension people have.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is publishing its response to the policy consultation on RCPS today, alongside draft regulations to enable providers to offer them as a default pension.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"tpr-executive-director-of-strategy-policy-and-analysis-richard-knox-said\">TPR Executive Director of Strategy, Policy and Analysis, Richard Knox, said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"People need more help to turn a pension pot into a sustainable retirement income, and well-designed default options at retirement will help people navigate these complex and important financial decisions.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Schemes should engage with DWP&rsquo;s consultation on guided retirement and help make these reforms a success.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-work-pensions\">Department for Work and Pensions<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">State of the Nation 2026: Who\u2019s getting ahead?<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Social Mobility Commission annual report updates its index, tracks long-term social mobility trends and local opportunities across the UK\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nState of the Nation 2026: Who&amp;rsquo;s getting ahead?\r\nRef: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760\r\nPDF, 19.9 MB, 160 pages\r\nForeward, Execut...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Social Mobility Commission annual report updates its index, tracks long-term social mobility trends and local opportunities across the UK<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ada225cc818345ad8aca352\/2026-10-21__State_of_the_Nation_2026_web.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ada225cc818345ad8aca352\/2026-10-21__State_of_the_Nation_2026_web.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">State of the Nation 2026: Who&rsquo;s getting ahead?<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 19.9 MB, 160 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/foreward-executive-summary\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Foreward, Executive summary<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-1-introduction\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-1-introduction\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Chapter 1: Introduction<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-2-long-term-trends-of-social-mobility-outcomes\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-2-long-term-trends-of-social-mobility-outcomes\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Chapter 2: Long-term trends of social mobility outcomes<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-3-intermediate-outcomes\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-3-intermediate-outcomes\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Chapter 3: Intermediate outcomes<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-4-tracking-drivers-important-national-trends\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-4-tracking-drivers-important-national-trends\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Chapter 4: Tracking drivers: important national trends<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-5-geography-that-matters-travel-to-work-area-analysis\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-5-geography-that-matters-travel-to-work-area-analysis\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Chapter 5: Geography that matters: travel-to-work area analysis<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-6-a-changing-job-mix-over-time-census-insights\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-6-a-changing-job-mix-over-time-census-insights\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Chapter 6: A changing job mix over time: census insights<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-7-conclusions\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/chapter-7-conclusions\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Chapter 7: Conclusions<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/social-mobility.data.gov.uk\/state-of-the-nation\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/social-mobility.data.gov.uk\/state-of-the-nation\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">State of the Nation: data explorer tool<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">https:\/\/social-mobility.data.gov.uk\/state-of-the-nation<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae350b8d22fc5fecb3eb7ad\/2026-10-19_State_of_the_Nation_2026_easy_read_english.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae350b8d22fc5fecb3eb7ad\/2026-10-19_State_of_the_Nation_2026_easy_read_english.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">State of the Nation 2026: Who&rsquo;s getting ahead? (Easy Read)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 16.8 MB, 22 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ada22a1b62d80a107bc5bf4\/2026-10-21_State_of_the_Nation_2026_20pt.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">State of the Nation 2026: Who&rsquo;s getting ahead? (large print)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6819-4, E03687760<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 95.7 MB, 278 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ada45dbd798ae11e9bc5bf7\/2026-07-17_Technical_annex_SON26.docx.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">State of the Nation 2026: Technical annex<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 3.66 MB, 168 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/state-of-the-nation-2026-whos-getting-ahead\/state-of-the-nation-2026-technical-annex\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">State of the Nation 2026: technical annex<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>State of the Nation 2026 is the Social Mobility Commission&rsquo;s annual statutory report laid before Parliament in fulfillment of its duty under the Life Chances Act 2010.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The publication provides a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment of intergenerational social mobility across the UK. It evaluates the extent to which a person&rsquo;s socio-economic background influences their chances of success in education, occupation, income and housing.<\/p>\r\n<p>The report is structured around the Social Mobility Index, which tracks 3 core pillars:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>long-term mobility outcomes in adulthood<\/li>\r\n<li>intermediate outcomes during childhood and early adulthood<\/li>\r\n<li>drivers representing the background conditions that enable future mobility<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The 2026 report introduces 3 major analytical updates:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>50-year trend tracking using linked census data from the Office for National Statistics Longitudinal Study<\/li>\r\n<li>local labour market mapping using travel-to-work areas rather than administrative boundaries<\/li>\r\n<li>a 20-year census analysis of changing occupational structures across local authorities<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The purpose of the report is to provide policymakers, local government, employers, and educators with granular, objective evidence to inform targeted policy and place-based action. It moves beyond high-level national averages to highlight local variations and intersectional barriers facing different demographic groups.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside the main report, the publication is supported by an interactive online <a href=\"https:\/\/social-mobility.data.gov.uk\/state-of-the-nation\" rel=\"external\">Data Explorer Tool<\/a>. This allows users to explore social mobility data and track regional progress over time.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/social-mobility-commission\">Social Mobility Commission<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/bridget-phillipson\">The Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New Government-backed cyber security protections could save UK businesses thousands<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Thousands of small and medium-sized business owners across the UK can now take advantage of a new Government-backed 75% discount for its Cyber Essentials certification programme\r\n\r\n\r\nGovernment launches cyber security offer for small and medium-sized businesses as part of national response to enhanc...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Thousands of small and medium-sized business owners across the UK can now take advantage of a new Government-backed 75% discount for its Cyber Essentials certification programme<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae8a83e8eaebb6a839ff5a7\/s300_75_offCyber_GovUK.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Government launches cyber security offer for small and medium-sized businesses as part of national response to enhance resilience against cyber threats<\/li>\r\n<li>Thousands of businesses can get a 75% discount on Government&rsquo;s certification, with thousands more part of key supply chains to benefit for free<\/li>\r\n<li>Organisations including Thales, Capgemini and SANS sign on as software security ambassadors to drive better software security practices and seal shut software vulnerabilities<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Thousands of small and medium-sized business owners across the UK can now take advantage of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/news\/firststep.iasme.co.uk\">new Government-backed 75% discount<\/a> for its Cyber Essentials certification programme &ndash; a scheme helping businesses put essential protections in place to safeguard their systems from cyber threats and attacks.<\/p>\r\n<p>Recent estimates suggest a significant cyber-attack on a UK business or organisation could cost on average &pound;195,0001. The cost of these attacks means money coming out of UK businesses and the people they employ, preventing them from re-investing and growing their business and our economy.<\/p>\r\n<p>In a speech at the National Cyber Security Centre&rsquo;s Annual Review today, Cyber Security Minister, Baroness Lloyd will announce how Government is fully backing UK businesses to protect themselves in the cyber race.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Cyber Essentials certification will be discounted by 75% for micro, small and medium sized businesses &ndash; meaning they could pay as little as &pound;80 and no more than &pound;125 (plus VAT) to get peace of mind that their organisation is protected against the most common online threats.<\/p>\r\n<p>Government is also working with over 230 businesses across industry, who have signed up to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/cyber-resilience-pledge\">Cyber Resilience Pledge<\/a>, to help them safeguard their supply chains and ensure they have the essential protections in place.<\/p>\r\n<p>Pledged organisations will be able to refer groups of SMEs within their supply chains to undertake Cyber Essentials certification completely free of charge. This will include access to a free cyber security advisor for select businesses, who may have limited in-house cyber expertise, to be supported through the process.<\/p>\r\n<p>This combined package of support is designed to make it easier for micro, small and medium-sized businesses to take practical action on cyber security, while helping strengthen the supply chains of some of Britain&rsquo;s biggest brands in food, banking and essential services we rely on every day.<\/p>\r\n<p>Cyber Security Minister, Liz Lloyd said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Small and medium-sized businesses employ millions of people across our nation, and should not be left vulnerable in the age of rising cyber threats.. We are not going to sit back and let malicious actors take advantage &ndash; we will back our SMEs and help them be protected and secure.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We are making it easier and cheaper to access expert cyber support, identify and plug vulnerabilities in their digital systems, and achieve certification through our Cyber Essentials scheme.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"It doesn&rsquo;t matter whether you&rsquo;re sitting at the head of the table in the boardroom, or working from the kitchen counter at home - if you run a business, no matter the size, securing your digital systems must be a top priority and we&rsquo;re equipping businesses for the evolving digital future.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>This comes alongside a major push to make the software underpinning Britain&rsquo;s economy more secure. 14 new organisations are joining as the UK&rsquo;s second cohort of Software Security Ambassadors: Fortinet, Thales, Cap Gemini, SANS, Risk Ledger, Zscaler, Acubed IT Solutions Ltd, CloudPeek, Dot On, Hippo Digital, Investec, IoT M2M Council, Nine23, and QinetiQ.<\/p>\r\n<p>Joining the existing ambassadors the companies will work with Government to champion secure software development and encourage the adoption of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncsc.gov.uk\/section\/software-security-code-of-practice\/overview\" rel=\"external\">Software Security Code of Practice<\/a> across their supply chains and the wider economy.<\/p>\r\n<p>The scheme aims to encourage more software developers to build their products aligned to the code of practice &ndash; safeguarding their systems from common cyber threats. Ambassadors will also encourage companies in their networks, and in their own supply chains, to meet the expectations of this code of practice. The end goal is securing the software backbone of businesses millions of people rely on every day.<\/p>\r\n<p>Today&rsquo;s measures build on the wider package announced as part of the Budget last week, to strengthen the UK&rsquo;s ability to defend itself as artificial intelligence transforms both the cyber threat and the tools available to tackle it, which included:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>&pound;70 million for a new National Exposure and Real-Time Vulnerability (NERV) Centre within the NCSC to build and maintain a national picture of vulnerabilities across critical national infrastructure and the wider economy.<\/li>\r\n<li>Investing &pound;60 million into a national Cyber Shield, using agentic AI to strengthen the UK&rsquo;s cyber defences, including a &pound;25 million Challenge Fund supporting UK AI and cyber security innovators.<\/li>\r\n<li>A new NCSC AI Cyber Security Centre of Excellence in Manchester, focused on training and developing the next generation of government cyber and AI experts.<\/li>\r\n<li>&pound;40 million for a National Agentic Security Unit to develop capabilities to monitor and respond to uncontrolled bots and strengthen resilience against agentic incidents.<\/li>\r\n<li>&pound;24 million to enhance public-sector cyber defences, putting advanced AI technology to work protecting our vital public services.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Together with the new support for businesses and collaboration with the software industry, the measures all form part of the government&rsquo;s concerted drive to strengthen cyber resilience across the UK economy.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-digital-culture-media-and-sport\">Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/liz-lloyd\">Baroness Lloyd of Effra CBE<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">One million more scans to help catch cancer sooner<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">125 more NHS scanners and AI technology are helping deliver a million extra scans each year, supporting earlier cancer diagnosis and faster treatment\r\n\r\n\r\n125 more CT and MRI scanners added since March 2024, helping enable an extra one million scans a year\r\nAI-powered MRI technology is helping the N...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">125 more NHS scanners and AI technology are helping deliver a million extra scans each year, supporting earlier cancer diagnosis and faster treatment<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/62750817e90e070dbf5acad5\/s300_DHSC_plaque.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>125 more CT and MRI scanners added since March 2024, helping enable an extra one million scans a year<\/li>\r\n<li>AI-powered MRI technology is helping the NHS see more patients and cut scan times<\/li>\r\n<li>New Manchester and Trafford Community Diagnostic Centre showcases how the NHS is bringing tests closer to home<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Patients across England are benefiting from faster cancer diagnoses, after one million more scans were delivered thanks to new scanners and cutting-edge AI technology.<\/p>\r\n<p>NHS England data published on Tuesday 3 November shows that, from March 2024 to March 2026, the number of CT and MRI scanners in the NHS has increased by 125, giving doctors greater capacity to diagnose cancer and other serious conditions earlier and get patients into treatment sooner.<\/p>\r\n<p>The expansion comes as each month in 2026 so far has set an NHS monthly record for diagnostic activity, with the diagnostic waiting list having fallen in three of the five months since April.<\/p>\r\n<p>Cancer waiting times are better than last year, and the overall waiting list for elective care is down by over 250,000 since July 2024.<\/p>\r\n<p>CT and MRI scanners are a vital part of diagnosing cancers including lung, brain, breast and prostate cancer. More scanners mean more patients can get the tests they need sooner, reducing waits and helping speed up diagnosis and treatment.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Minister of State for Health Karin Smyth said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Getting the right diagnosis and treatment as quickly as possible can make all the difference, particularly for patients with cancer and other serious conditions.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"That&rsquo;s why, in the face of record demand, we are expanding NHS capacity and using new technology to help more people get the tests and care they need.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The 125 new scanners and rollout of AI technology are helping deliver around a million extra scans every year, while the new Manchester and Trafford CDC with its modern facilities and cutting-edge equipment will allow people to get checked quickly and conveniently in the community.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside the expansion in scanning capacity, AI-powered MRI technology is being introduced across the NHS, helping services carry out on average 14% more scans while maintaining image quality. The technology is helping hospitals create thousands of extra appointments and allowing patients to spend less time in scanners.<\/p>\r\n<p>The new &pound;19.2 million Manchester and Trafford Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), which officially opened on Thursday 29 October, will further expand access to vital tests and scans, giving patients quicker and more convenient care closer to home.<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England&rsquo;s national clinical director for cancer, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Waiting for test results can be an anxious time for anyone worried about cancer, so receiving answers sooner can make a real difference.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"By increasing access to scans and using technology to help clinicians see patients faster, the NHS is making it easier for people to get checked quickly and closer to home at a time that suits them.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The earlier cancer is diagnosed, the more treatment options there are and the better the chance of a successful outcome for patients.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Most of the new machines added since March 2024 (107 of 125) have gone into community diagnostic centres, which carried out nearly 2.2 million CT and MRI scans in the 12 months up to March 2026 &mdash; an extra million compared to the 12 months up to March 2024.<\/p>\r\n<p>AI acceleration software has already been installed in more than half (54%) of compatible NHS MRI scanners. The software speeds up scan times as it needs less data to achieve a high-quality image. The saved time can be used to get more patients through each machine per day, meaning at a national level the NHS can increase the number of MRI appointments it undertakes.<\/p>\r\n<p>Every NHS trust in the country will be given the opportunity to upgrade compatible MRI scanners by 2029. A full rollout would enable existing equipment to deliver up to 162,000 more checks per year.<\/p>\r\n<p>Dr Stephen Harden, President of the Royal College of Radiologists, said:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Demand for diagnostic scans is rising, so it is vital we have the equipment and workforce to scan, diagnose and treat patients efficiently and safely. We are pleased to see the government continue to roll out newer and AI-enabled scanners that are helping to scan more patients and providing the images radiologists analyse.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/nhs-england\">NHS England<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/karin-smyth\">Karin Smyth MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Building transport resilience<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The transport resilience strategy sets out the government&amp;rsquo;s approach to strengthening the resilience of the UK transport system over the next 5 to 10 years\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nI want to inform the House that my department has published the transport resilience strategy today (2 November 2026).\r\nTransport...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The transport resilience strategy sets out the government&rsquo;s approach to strengthening the resilience of the UK transport system over the next 5 to 10 years<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/668ea1a0fc8e12ac3edafa82\/Keir-Mather.jpg\" alt=\"Keir Mather MP\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>I want to inform the House that my department has published the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/transport-resilience-strategy\">transport resilience strategy<\/a> today (2 November 2026).<\/p>\r\n<p>Transport is vital to our way of life. It connects people to family and jobs, goods to industry and supports connectivity, economic growth and health. A secure and resilient transport system is essential to thriving communities and to delivering economic growth across every part of the UK.<\/p>\r\n<p>The publication of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/uk-government-resilience-action-plan\">resilience action plan<\/a> in July 2025 set out this government&rsquo;s strategic approach to building resilience in an increasingly volatile and uncertain world. This transport resilience strategy puts that approach into practice for the transport sector, setting our direction for the next 5 to 10 years.<\/p>\r\n<p>The threats and hazards facing our transport system are becoming increasingly complex and unpredictable. Its interconnectedness means that disruption in one place can quickly have consequences elsewhere, affirming the importance of building resilience across the system overall. Recent events show resilience cannot be treated as an &lsquo;optional extra&rsquo;, but as something that is vital to the operations of businesses and transport operators.<\/p>\r\n<p>But resilient infrastructure and robust plans are only part of the answer. While we will continue to embrace automation and advances in digital technology to improve safety and effectiveness, transport remains a people-dependent system. Therefore, it is vital that people within the transport system are equipped with the knowledge, capabilities and tools necessary to keep transport moving. By ensuring that everyone knows their role and how it impacts the continuing resilience of the transport system, and by ensuring that transport users are prepared and armed with the right information, we can reduce the likelihood of disruption and lessen its impact when it occurs.<\/p>\r\n<p>To help achieve this, the strategy aims to better assess ongoing transport resilience to identify and target areas for improvement, enable the whole system &ndash; including transport users &ndash; to take action to improve resilience, and strengthen government resilience capabilities. It makes 22 practical commitments to improve transport resilience, including the delivery of a new training initiative, the Transport Resilience Academy and the establishment of a sector-wide transport resilience network. Through these initiatives, we will strengthen collaboration, connections and system-wide understanding across the transport system, local partners and other sectors, enabling them to share evidence and best practice and address common risks together.<\/p>\r\n<p>Transport resilience is a whole-government, whole-sector, and whole-society endeavour. No single organisation can deliver it alone. As the minister responsible for transport resilience, I am pleased to present a strategy which sets out how we will work together over the coming years to strengthen the resilience of our transport system, protect the connections on which people and businesses depend, and ultimately improve the everyday experience of those who use our networks.<\/p>\r\n<p>The strategy has been developed with stakeholders from across government and the transport system. I am grateful to everyone who contributed their experience and evidence.<\/p>\r\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/transport-resilience-strategy\">transport resilience strategy<\/a> has been placed in the libraries of both Houses and is available on GOV.UK.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-transport\">Department for Transport<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/keir-mather\">Keir Mather MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Home Secretary unveils new rules for migrants settling in the UK<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Settlement will be earned through contribution and good character\r\n\r\nThe right to live in the UK forever will no longer be granted to migrants almost automatically after 5 years. Instead, it will be earned, under the new earned settlement model set out before Parliament today.&amp;nbsp;\r\nRecognising tha...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Settlement will be earned through contribution and good character<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/669fa7f5ab418ab055592b21\/s300_2MS_Home_Office_sign_-_landscape.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The right to live in the UK forever will no longer be granted to migrants almost automatically after 5 years. Instead, it will be earned, under the new earned settlement model set out before Parliament today.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Recognising that settled status is a significant privilege which allows free and unrestricted access to the labour market, NHS and welfare system, the reforms will mean that how long someone waits will now depend on their contribution and character.&shy;&shy;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The highest earners will be able to settle within 3 years. Those earning more than &pound;50,271 and some public service workers &ndash; like doctors, nurses and teachers &ndash; will be able to settle after 5 years. Others will settle at a new default of 10 years. Those who have breached immigration rules will only be able to settle after at least 20 years.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Anyone seeking settlement, regardless of when they arrived in the country, will first need to meet 4 non-negotiable conditions:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>a spotless criminal record (up from the current threshold of a 12-month suspended sentence)&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>English spoken to a high standard (equivalent to A-Level English as a foreign language)&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>no debt owed to the taxpayer&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>a record of sustained National Insurance contributions&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The reforms are largely in line with those set out in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/earned-settlement\">November 2025 consultation<\/a> However, the government has set out a new, fair deal for care workers.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>In recognition of the contribution care workers made to Britain when the sector was reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic, those who met their visa conditions and earned at least &pound;25,000 a year will be able to settle after 5 years.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>But the care worker route was also abused, with rogue and exploitative companies sponsoring workers for jobs that did not exist.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Under this government, 1,800 exploitative employers have been stripped of their right to sponsor foreign workers.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Those who do not qualify for 5-year settlement &ndash; around a quarter of the total &ndash; will be offered a second chance to contribute through a new 5-year visa. They will be able to apply for settlement only once these have been completed.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>A similar approach will apply to public service workers in healthcare and education who arrived during the same period.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Settlement rules will otherwise continue to apply at the point of application, as they always have in Britain and internationally.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>As a result, an estimated over 500,000 people will wait longer than 5 years to settle, taking billions off the welfare bill. No one will be forced to leave, and everyone will have a fair chance to apply for new visas that would allow them to settle after 10 years.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"People want to see an immigration system based on control, contribution, and which rewards those who play by the rules.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"These proposals are based on that principle and recognise the contribution made by overseas workers to our country.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Following Brexit, the previous government lost control of immigration, with an unprecedented spike in numbers. This Home Secretary is gripping this problem, and she has my full support in doing so.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"It is only fair that those who are making the most valuable contribution to our communities are given the opportunity to settle earlier. Those in other roles should expect to wait longer while people who abuse the system or arrive illegally will be refused or will also have to wait longer.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Settled status is one of the most valuable rights this country can offer. Until now it has been given almost automatically.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"From today, it must be earned. Those who contribute most will settle fastest. Those who don&rsquo;t play by the rules will be refused or wait much longer.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This policy creates a migration system that is fair: fair to those who come here and play their part, and fair to British citizens already here, who must not be asked to bear a greater burden.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The policy also sets out settlement rights for all refugees. It encourages the use of controlled, capped safe and legal routes, and discourages illegal and unsafe small boat crossings.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Refugees on Home Office-approved routes will be able to settle after 5 years. Others will settle at 20 years, reduced to 10 years for those who work or study.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Anyone who arrived by small boat, or another clandestine means of entry, will face an additional 10-year waiting period &ndash; meaning they could wait up to 30 years for settlement.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Settled status will never be removed from anyone who already holds it. Family members of British citizens, Hong Kong British Nationals (Overseas) and members of the armed forces will keep their current pathways.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The UK will also have the most business friendly migration system in Europe for highly skilled workers.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/home-office\">Home Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/shabana-mahmood\">The Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">UK moves closer to launching first digitally native government bond<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The UK is a step closer to launching its first digitally native government bond, with roles allocated to the six banks supporting the landmark pilot\r\n\r\n\r\nSix banks given specific roles to support the launch of DIGIT, the UK&amp;rsquo;s first digitally native government bond.&amp;nbsp;\r\nBank of England regul...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The UK is a step closer to launching its first digitally native government bond, with roles allocated to the six banks supporting the landmark pilot<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37db09e5274a79051c9235\/s300_HMT_buiding_plaque.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Six banks given specific roles to support the launch of DIGIT, the UK&rsquo;s first digitally native government bond.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Bank of England regulatory approval for a world-first link between HSBC and LSEG platforms will give investors more options to access DIGIT.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Latest milestone towards the pilot issuance, expected by Q1 2027, as the government puts new digital financial infrastructure into practice.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, Morgan Stanley, NatWest and RBC Capital Markets have been allocated specific Lead Manager roles for the pilot issuance of the Digital Gilt Instrument (DIGIT), marking another major step towards its launch.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The roles cover key parts of preparing and delivering the transaction, from documentation and bookbuilding to investor communications and helping investors access the digital platforms through which DIGIT will be available.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The Bank of England has also confirmed regulatory approval for a link between HSBC and LSEG&rsquo;s Digital Securities Depositories. The world-first link will give investors the option of accessing DIGIT through either infrastructure, helping reduce fragmentation between digital platforms and support wider participation in the pilot.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Together, the announcements provide greater certainty for investors ahead of the planned pilot issuance, which is expected to take place by Q1 2027.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>DIGIT is a key part of the government&rsquo;s Wholesale Financial Markets Digital Strategy and will test how distributed ledger technology can be used in UK sovereign debt issuance.<\/p>\r\n<p>Lucy Rigby KC MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Digitalisation is central to ensuring the UK remains a global hub for digital assets, and DIGIT is an important part of putting that ambition into practice.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Today&rsquo;s announcements take us another step closer to issuing the UK&rsquo;s first digitally native government bond early next year, while supporting further innovation in our financial markets.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The world-first link between HSBC and LSEG&rsquo;s platforms shows the UK is at the forefront of developing the financial infrastructure of the future.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Lead Manager roles&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The six Joint Lead Managers, appointed in October following a competitive procurement process, have been allocated the following responsibilities:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>HSBC: Documentation Manager; Settlement Manager; Billing and Delivery Manager; Bookbuilding&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>RBC Capital Markets and Barclays: Roadshow Coordinator and market communications&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Lloyds: Press and external communications&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>NatWest and Morgan Stanley: Platform Coordinator&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The Platform Coordinator is a new Lead Manager role created for DIGIT. NatWest and Morgan Stanley will support investors through the process of joining and using their chosen digital platform ahead of the pilot issuance.<\/p>\r\n<p>Improving investor access&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The government committed at Mansion House last year to ensuring DIGIT supports interoperability between digital platforms and provides effective investor access.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Following regulatory approval from the Bank of England, the link between HSBC and LSEG&rsquo;s respective Digital Securities Depositories will provide an additional way for investors to access DIGIT.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Under the arrangement, HSBC Orion will act as the issuer Digital Securities Depository, while LSEG B3 will act as an investor Digital Securities Depository.<\/p>\r\n<p>This means investors will be able to access DIGIT through either infrastructure, helping reduce fragmentation between digital platforms and supporting broader participation in the pilot.<\/p>\r\n<p>The DIGIT pilot&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>DIGIT will help the government explore how distributed ledger technology can be applied to UK sovereign debt issuance and support the development and adoption of digital financial infrastructure in the UK.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The pilot will:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>enable the government to explore how distributed ledger technology can be applied to UK sovereign debt issuance processes; and&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>support the development of UK-based distributed ledger technology infrastructure and its adoption across UK financial markets.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>DIGIT will be digitally native and short-dated, and will be issued on a platform operating within the Digital Securities Sandbox. It will use on-chain settlement and will sit outside the government&rsquo;s main debt management programme.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-treasury\">HM Treasury<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/lucy-rigby\">The Rt Hon Lucy Rigby KC MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 3 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Hope on the High Street<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">A new cross-government strategy to rejuvenate high streets and empower local leaders, businesses and communities\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nHope on the High Street\r\nRef: ISBN 978-1-5286-6877-4, CP 1704\r\nPDF, 36.3 MB, 90 pages\r\nOrder a copy\r\nThis file may not be suitable for users of ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">A new cross-government strategy to rejuvenate high streets and empower local leaders, businesses and communities<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae4531ba5c2f99e3a7b83bb\/Hope_on_the_high_street.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae4531ba5c2f99e3a7b83bb\/Hope_on_the_high_street.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Hope on the High Street<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6877-4, CP 1704<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 36.3 MB, 90 pages<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\"><a class=\"govuk-link govuk-link--no-visited-state\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/how-to-buy-printed-copies-of-official-documents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Order a copy<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.<\/p>\r\n<p>Request an accessible format &nbsp; <a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hope-on-the-high-street\/hope-on-the-high-street\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hope-on-the-high-street\/hope-on-the-high-street\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Hope on the High Street<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: CP 1704<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\"><a class=\"govuk-link govuk-link--no-visited-state\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/how-to-buy-printed-copies-of-official-documents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Order a copy<\/a><\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The strategy sets out a cross-government approach to revitalising town centres, centred on economic growth, reducing vacancy, supporting businesses, improving public safety, strengthening local leadership, and ensuring public assets work in support of thriving high streets.<\/p>\r\n<p>The body of the strategy sets out the key policy measures being implemented to achieve these aims. This includes contributions from other government departments and refers to case studies that highlight best practice.<\/p>\r\n<p>This strategy is backed by a &pound;210 million <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/community-assets-programme\">Community Assets Package<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Employer views on hiring young people survey report<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The young people and work report is an independent review of the increase in the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET)\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nEmployer views on hiring young people survey report \r\nRef: ISBN 978-1-80786-043-1\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nThe Department for ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The young people and work report is an independent review of the increase in the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET)<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/employer-views-on-hiring-young-people-survey-report\/employer-views-on-hiring-young-people-survey-report\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/employer-views-on-hiring-young-people-survey-report\/employer-views-on-hiring-young-people-survey-report\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Employer views on hiring young people survey report <\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-80786-043-1<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) commissioned an online survey of employers to inform the Milburn Young People and Work report.<\/p>\r\n<p>This research was designed to provide select findings on employers&rsquo; hiring practices, their views of young people, engagement with education and employment support, and recruitment challenges and support needs.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"research-value-and-contribution-to-the-evidence-base\"><br \/>Research value and contribution to the evidence base<\/h2>\r\n<p>The findings from this research have been used to inform the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/young-people-and-work-interim-report\">Young people and work: interim report<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>It will also inform the wider evidence base on young people not in education, employment or training (NEETs).<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-work-pensions\">Department for Work and Pensions<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New Chair appointed of the Leasehold Advisory Service<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Professor Nick Hopkins will be taking over from Martin Boyd, providing strategic direction as LEASE continues to modernise its services and help leaseholders\r\n\r\nProfessor Nick Hopkins has today (2 November 2026) been announced as the new Chair of the Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), where he will...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Professor Nick Hopkins will be taking over from Martin Boyd, providing strategic direction as LEASE continues to modernise its services and help leaseholders<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae86f9fec36e258a1998523\/s300_MHCLG_960x640.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Nick Hopkins has today (2 November 2026) been announced as the new Chair of the Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), where he will strengthen the organisation&rsquo;s role in championing the rights of leaseholders and park home owners.<\/p>\r\n<p>LEASE is a government-funded body which provides free advice and information to leaseholders and park homeowners in England and Wales, including on commonhold and building safety issues.<\/p>\r\n<p>As Chair, Professor Hopkins will provide strategic direction for LEASE as it continues to modernise its services and support leaseholders and park home owners in understanding their rights.<\/p>\r\n<p>He brings a wealth of experience in land and property law, following a decade as the Law Commissioner for Property, Family and Trust Law in England and Wales, which included leading the Commission&rsquo;s work on residential leasehold and commonhold reform, as well as his current position as Professor of Land Law at University College London.<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Hopkins has been a prominent advocate for reforming the leasehold and commonhold system, and through his work with the Law Commission, helped develop proposals intended to give homeowners greater control over their buildings.<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Hopkins takes over from Martin Boyd who has led LEASE since 2023 and provided strong leadership throughout a significant transformation and modernisation of the organisation&rsquo;s services.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"minister-for-housing-and-planning-matthew-pennycook-mp-said\">Minister for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"I warmly congratulate Professor Nick Hopkins on his appointment as LEASE&rsquo;s Chair, and I very much look forward to working with him through this critical period as we both provide leaseholders with relief and progress the reforms necessary to end the feudal leasehold system for good.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I am extremely grateful to Martin Boyd for the service and leadership he has provided over the past three years. As a result of his considerable energy, expertise and commitment, LEASE has improved materially to the benefit of leaseholders and homeowners alike.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"professor-nick-hopkins-said\">Professor Nick Hopkins said:<\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I am delighted to have been appointed Chair of LEASE at this significant period of reform of the sector. I look forward to working with LEASE&rsquo;s Board and staff to support leasehold homeowners and owners of park homes in England and Wales and promote their rights. Alongside this vital work, I welcome the opportunity to help prepare current and future homeowners for the transition to commonhold as the default tenure for flat ownership so that they can fully benefit from the advantages that it will bring.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"martin-boyd-outgoing-chair-of-lease-said\">Martin Boyd, outgoing Chair of LEASE said:<\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I am very pleased to hand on the baton of chairing LEASE to Professor Nick Hopkins at the end of my 3 years term. Radically transforming LEASE was my original brief. That transition is now almost complete, but it now becomes a stepping stone for Nick to take forward. At this critical time of legislative reform Nick&rsquo;s knowledge will help ensure consumers get the help they need. I thank all the team at LEASE and the Department for their support over the last three years.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"lease-chief-executive-kion-ahadi-said\">LEASE Chief Executive Kion Ahadi said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"I&rsquo;m delighted that Professor Nick Hopkins is joining LEASE as our new Chair. His experience and expertise in leasehold and commonhold reform will be a real strength as we prepare LEASE for the changes ahead. I look forward to working with Nick to deliver more personalised advice and strengthen our digital services, making it easier for people to get the help they need.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I&rsquo;d also like to thank Martin for his leadership over the past three years and his commitment to leaseholders and park home owners.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Nick Hopkins is now in-post and the appointment is expected to run for three years.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government remains committed to improving the experience of leaseholders and the Prime Minister has confirmed the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill will be introduced to Parliament before the end of this year.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/leasehold-advisory-service\">Leasehold Advisory Service<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/matthew-pennycook\">The Rt Hon Matthew Pennycook MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Driver Welfare, Safety and Compliance: A Traffic Commissioners\u2019 View<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">As Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain, our statutory role is to regulate the operation of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and public service vehicles (PSVs) in the interests of road safety, fair competition and public confidence. Central to this role is the wellbeing of professional drivers\r\n\r\nDriv...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">As Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain, our statutory role is to regulate the operation of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and public service vehicles (PSVs) in the interests of road safety, fair competition and public confidence. Central to this role is the wellbeing of professional drivers<\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae857713d3bf10d23546294\/s300_2526ARphoto.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Driver welfare is sometimes seen as a peripheral employment issue. From a regulatory perspective, however, it is closely linked to fitness to drive, compliance with the law and the management of risk. Where driver welfare is poor, the likelihood of fatigue, ill health, poor decision\u2011making and non\u2011compliance increases. These factors feature regularly in the cases we consider.<\/p>\r\n<p>This article sets out why driver welfare matters to the regulatory system, where the most significant risks currently lie, and how recent evidence, including research undertaken by Loughborough University, supports a more preventative and evidence\u2011based approach.<\/p>\r\n<p>Driver Welfare and the Regulatory Framework<\/p>\r\n<p>The Traffic Commissioners do not regulate &ldquo;welfare&rdquo; as a standalone concept. Our responsibilities focus on:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Operator licensing and repute<\/li>\r\n<li>Drivers&rsquo; hours and working time compliance<\/li>\r\n<li>Road safety and professional standards<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>However, welfare deficiencies frequently manifest themselves through compliance failures. Drivers who cannot rest properly or who are managing long\u2011term health issues are more likely to accumulate infringements, experience collisions or disengage from their employer.<\/p>\r\n<p>From our perspective, welfare is therefore a necessary foundation for lawful and safe operation, not an optional enhancement.<\/p>\r\n<p>HGV Driver Welfare: Areas of Greatest Concern Lorry Parking and Rest Opportunities<\/p>\r\n<p>The availability of safe, legal and appropriate lorry parking remains one of the most significant challenges facing the industry. Drivers must take rest in accordance with the law, yet many continue to report difficulty finding suitable places to stop, particularly on strategic freight corridors.<\/p>\r\n<p>In regulatory cases, this issue often arises when drivers are found to have continued driving beyond permissible limits. While we recognise the infrastructure constraints that exist, operators retain a responsibility to plan routes and schedules that allow drivers to comply with the law.<\/p>\r\n<p>Lack of parking does not remove legal obligations, but it does increase the importance of careful operational planning.<\/p>\r\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae8568d01fb27f6e79984ab\/s960_Welfare3.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/> <br \/><br \/>Welfare Facilities and Health<\/p>\r\n<p>Access to basic welfare facilities, such as toilets, washing facilities, rest areas and food, is fundamental. Inconsistent provision contributes to wider health risks, particularly in a workforce that is ageing and often sedentary.<\/p>\r\n<p>Poor health outcomes have implications for medical fitness to drive, long\u2011term retention and operational resilience. These issues increasingly feature in regulatory discussions and driver medical assessments.<\/p>\r\n<p>Security and the Ability to Rest<\/p>\r\n<p>Security concerns at rest locations affect drivers&rsquo; ability to achieve effective rest. Anxiety about personal safety or vehicle security leads some drivers to reduce rest periods or remain alert during mandated breaks, increasing fatigue risk.<\/p>\r\n<p>Secure facilities are therefore a safety control as much as a crime\u2011prevention measure.<\/p>\r\n<p>Evidence from Research: Lessons from Loughborough University<\/p>\r\n<p>Traffic Commissioners place considerable weight on evidence when assessing risk and appropriate controls. Research undertaken by Loughborough University provides valuable insight into how welfare issues translate into safety outcomes.<\/p>\r\n<p>Health and the SHIFT Programme<\/p>\r\n<p>The Structured Health Intervention For Truckers (SHIFT) programme was developed by Loughborough University to address the disproportionately poor health outcomes experienced by HGV drivers.<\/p>\r\n<p>The research identified that these outcomes are driven primarily by the structural realities of the role (long periods of sitting, irregular schedules, poor food availability and limited access to health services) rather than lack of awareness.<\/p>\r\n<p>The programme was evaluated using robust methodology and demonstrated improvements in physical activity, sitting time and weight outcomes among participating drivers. Importantly, SHIFT was designed to operate within existing industry structures, including Driver CPC training.<\/p>\r\n<p>This work demonstrates that preventative, realistic interventions can be effective, and that driver health should be viewed as part of the safety system.<\/p>\r\n<p>Fatigue and Fitness to Drive<\/p>\r\n<p>Loughborough University&rsquo;s research into fatigue and sleep has reinforced the well\u2011established link between fatigue and impairment. Evidence shows that fatigue can reduce driving performance to a level comparable with alcohol impairment.<\/p>\r\n<p>For regulators, this supports the view that managing fatigue requires more than monitoring hours records. Access to suitable rest environments, sensible scheduling and a supportive organisational culture all play a role in maintaining fitness to drive.<\/p>\r\n<p>PSV Driver Welfare: Different Conditions, Similar Principles<\/p>\r\n<p>PSV drivers operate in different environments, but many welfare risks overlap with freight transport.<\/p>\r\n<p>Research into bus driver fatigue, also conducted by Loughborough University for Transport for London, identified significant levels of fatigue linked to scheduling, working patterns and welfare provision. This evidence informed the introduction of formal Fatigue Risk Management Systems in London bus operations.<\/p>\r\n<p>Access to toilets, rest facilities and support in dealing with public\u2011facing stress remain important factors across the PSV sector, particularly where services operate over long hours.<\/p>\r\n<p>Expectations of Operators<\/p>\r\n<p>Operators are expected to take reasonable, proactive steps to manage welfare risks. This includes:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Planning work that allows lawful rest<\/li>\r\n<li>Considering known infrastructure constraints<\/li>\r\n<li>Monitoring fatigue risk, not just hours data<\/li>\r\n<li>Supporting driver health and wellbeing<\/li>\r\n<li>Creating an open culture where concerns can be raised<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Where operators can demonstrate that welfare risks are understood and managed, this is relevant when considering compliance and repute. Conversely, repeated failures linked to poor welfare controls may result in regulatory action.<\/p>\r\n<p>All staff, such as technicians and managers need access to this support as they have a direct impact on safety and compliance.<\/p>\r\n<p>The RHA Guide states that operators should be:<\/p>\r\n<p>Creating a Safe Place for Conversations<\/p>\r\n<p>Drivers need confidence that raising a concern won&rsquo;t automatically lead to punishment.<\/p>\r\n<p>Best practice includes:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Open-door approach for health discussions. Drivers should feel safe declaring medication changes, sleep issues, or alcohol concerns.<\/li>\r\n<li>Training for transport managers on how to have helpful, understanding talks.<\/li>\r\n<li>Confidentiality protocols to protect privacy.<\/li>\r\n<li>Access to workplace health or help programs for anyone having problems with alcohol or drug addiction.<\/li>\r\n<li>Clear guidance on how and when to report concerns about colleagues, without stigma.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>You can read more in the <a href=\"https:\/\/eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rha.uk.net%2FPortals%2F0%2FCampaigns%2FPublications%2FGuide-to-Maintaining-Driver-Health_260203_digi.pdf%3Fver%3Dvdn9lLHks773QsZE0h26pw%253d%253d&amp;data=05%7C02%7CNicholas.Tiplady%40OTC.GOV.UK%7Cd124f5f71ffa4e3b9fb908deac311bf3%7Ca455b827244f4c97b5b4ce5d13b4d00c%7C0%7C0%7C639137524132308831%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=P9%2Fk6iVgg4khRjnEU37%2FQLEHTL%2FMHOXvF3vEPe9KZFY%3D&amp;reserved=0\" rel=\"external\">Guide-to-Maintaining-Driver-Health_260203_digi.pdf<\/a> from the RHA.<\/p>\r\n<p>Mental Health and Wellbeing<\/p>\r\n<p>Driver welfare is not limited to physical health, hours compliance or roadside facilities. Increasingly, issues of mental health, isolation and stress are emerging in regulatory casework and operator engagement.<\/p>\r\n<p>The logistics sector presents a unique set of pressures: long periods of lone working, irregular hours, disrupted sleep patterns and limited opportunity for social connection. These factors can contribute to declining mental wellbeing, which in turn affects concentration, decision\u2011making and behaviour at work.<\/p>\r\n<p>In this context, we welcome Logistics UK&rsquo;s THRIVE initiative, which represents a sector\u2011led response to the growing need for accessible mental health and wellbeing support.<\/p>\r\n<p>What initiatives like this provide<\/p>\r\n<p>THRIVE is an online wellbeing hub developed by Logistics UK to give drivers, operators and managers access to a trusted library of mental health and wellbeing resources. It brings together guidance, toolkits and expert content covering:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Mental health awareness and signposting<\/li>\r\n<li>Stress, anxiety and burnout<\/li>\r\n<li>Sleep and fatigue associated with shift and night work<\/li>\r\n<li>Loneliness and social isolation<\/li>\r\n<li>Physical wellbeing, including links to driver\u2011specific health programmes such as SHIFT<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>These initiatives do not (and should not) attempt professional care. Its stated purpose is to guide individuals towards appropriate support, providing practical information in an accessible and industry\u2011relevant format. For 2026, THRIVE is supporting the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), reinforcing its focus on early intervention and suicide prevention.<\/p>\r\n<p>THRIVE is found <a href=\"https:\/\/logistics.org.uk\/thrive\/\" rel=\"external\">here.<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>Other online resources exist, though will not be targeted at our sector.<\/p>\r\n<p>Why This Matters from a Regulatory Perspective<\/p>\r\n<p>Traffic Commissioners are increasingly aware of the role that mental health can play in:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Fatigue and fitness\u2011to\u2011drive<\/li>\r\n<li>Driver conduct and decision\u2011making<\/li>\r\n<li>Attendance, engagement and retention<\/li>\r\n<li>The circumstances surrounding compliance failures<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>While mental health is not a regulated condition in itself, it is relevant when assessing whether an operator has taken reasonable steps to support drivers and manage risk. Industry\u2011wide resources such as THRIVE help normalise conversations about wellbeing and reduce the barriers to drivers seeking help early.<\/p>\r\n<p>We regard initiatives of this nature as supportive infrastructure: not a substitute for good management practices, but a tool that operators and transport managers can use to strengthen them.<\/p>\r\n<p>Expectations of Operators and Transport Managers<\/p>\r\n<p>From our perspective, welfare resources are most effective when they are:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Actively signposted to drivers, not simply available<\/li>\r\n<li>Integrated into day\u2011to\u2011day management conversations<\/li>\r\n<li>Used to support, rather than replace, internal processes<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Operators who can demonstrate that they are engaging with recognised industry initiatives, promoting wellbeing resources and responding appropriately when issues are raised are better placed to manage emerging risks before they escalate into safety or compliance failures.<\/p>\r\n<p>A Practical Consideration for Transport Managers<\/p>\r\n<p>Transport Managers may wish to consider:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Making drivers aware of useful resources during induction or periodic briefings<\/li>\r\n<li>Using industry-accepted materials as part of toolbox talks on fatigue, stress or wellbeing<\/li>\r\n<li>Encouraging open discussion where drivers feel able to raise concerns early<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>These steps do not require complex systems, but they can contribute to a healthier, more resilient workforce.<\/p>\r\n<p>Conclusion<\/p>\r\n<p>Driver welfare, road safety and compliance are closely aligned. Increasingly, regulatory experience and academic evidence tell the same story: poor welfare leads to increased risk.<\/p>\r\n<p>The challenge is to move from reactive responses to preventative systems. Evidence\u2011based approaches, such as those developed through academic research and implemented in partnership with industry, provide a clear direction of travel.<\/p>\r\n<p>From a regulatory standpoint, welfare should be treated as an integral part of safe and compliant operation. Doing so benefits drivers, operators and the public alike.<\/p>\r\n<p>As Traffic Commissioners, we do not prescribe specific wellbeing programmes. However, we do expect operators to take welfare seriously as part of safe and compliant operation.<\/p>\r\n<p>Sector\u2011led initiatives such as THRIVE demonstrate how industry can respond collaboratively to shared challenges. Used alongside realistic planning, good communication and evidence\u2011based fatigue management, they support the wider objective we all share, keeping drivers safe, compliant and fit to drive.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/traffic-commissioners\">Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">DVLA privacy policy<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">This privacy notice explains how DVLA processes your personal data. In particular, it explains how we collect, use, disclose, transfer and store your data\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nDVLA privacy policy\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nAnnex 1: Retention periods\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nDVLA aims to comply with all applicable data prot...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">This privacy notice explains how DVLA processes your personal data. In particular, it explains how we collect, use, disclose, transfer and store your data<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/dvla-privacy-policy\/dvla-privacy-policy\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/dvla-privacy-policy\/dvla-privacy-policy\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">DVLA privacy policy<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/dvla-privacy-policy\/annex-1-retention-periods\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/dvla-privacy-policy\/annex-1-retention-periods\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Annex 1: Retention periods<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>DVLA aims to comply with all applicable data protection laws when processing your personal information. These laws are in place to safeguard your personal information and include measures covering data security, your rights regarding your personal data, and the use and disclosure of your data.<\/p>\r\n<p>Further information on the standards you can expect from us is set out in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency\/about\/personal-information-charter\">personal information charter<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency\">Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Transport resilience strategy<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Sets out how government and the transport sector and local partners will work together to strengthen the resilience of the UK transport system\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nTransport resilience strategy\r\nPDF, 3.4 MB, 66 pages\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDetails\r\nThe transport resilience strategy sets out the government&amp;rsquo...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Sets out how government and the transport sector and local partners will work together to strengthen the resilience of the UK transport system<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae846643d3bf10d2354627e\/transport-resilience-strategy.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae846643d3bf10d2354627e\/transport-resilience-strategy.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Transport resilience strategy<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 3.4 MB, 66 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The transport resilience strategy sets out the government&rsquo;s approach to strengthening the resilience of the UK transport system over the next 5 to 10 years.<\/p>\r\n<p>It explains how government will work with industry and local partners in relation to the transport system to:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>understand risks<\/li>\r\n<li>reduce vulnerabilities<\/li>\r\n<li>improve preparedness for disruption across the transport system<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The strategy sets out what the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/uk-government-resilience-action-plan\">UK Government Resilience Action Plan<\/a> means in practice for the transport sector, by applying its 3 primary objectives for transport:<\/p>\r\n<ol>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Continuously assess how resilient the UK transport sector is, so interventions and resources can be targeted effectively.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Enable the whole transport system, including transport users, to take action to increase resilience.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Strengthen government&rsquo;s transport resilience capabilities.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<p>It also sets out practical measures to improve:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>risk assessment<\/li>\r\n<li>horizon scanning<\/li>\r\n<li>exercising<\/li>\r\n<li>local collaboration<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The strategy also commits to delivering a tailored transport resilience training package for transport operators and local partners alongside a transport sector-wide network to support collaboration, share learning and strengthen resilience across the system.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-transport\">Department for Transport<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">&#039;See it. Say it. Sorted.&#039; marks a decade of keeping Britain&#039;s railways safe<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Almost 83,000 crimes have been recorded through the 61016 number since the public safety campaign launched in 2016\r\n\r\n\r\n&amp;lsquo;See it. Say it. Sorted.&amp;rsquo; campaign marks 10 years, having helped prompt&amp;nbsp;over 1.5 million texts to British Transport Police, leading to almost 83,000 crimes recorde...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Almost 83,000 crimes have been recorded through the 61016 number since the public safety campaign launched in 2016<\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae4adc63d3bf10d23546223\/s300_see-it-say-it-sorted-960.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>&lsquo;See it. Say it. Sorted.&rsquo; campaign marks 10 years, having helped prompt&nbsp;over 1.5 million texts to British Transport Police, leading to almost 83,000 crimes recorded<\/li>\r\n<li>passengers using 61016 led to 175,000 police deployments over the past decade, showing how a single text can lead to an arrest, investigation and conviction<\/li>\r\n<li>government work under nationalisation puts passengers at the heart of transport,&nbsp;with &pound;17 million to improve CCTV at stations, and the British Transport Police receiving a &pound;63 million boost&nbsp;over 3 years - funding over 200 additional officers<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Passengers have helped the British Transport Police record almost 83,000 crimes over the past decade by texting 61016, according to new figures released today, as the &lsquo;See it. Say it. Sorted.&rsquo; campaign reaches its tenth anniversary.<\/p>\r\n<p>Since its launch in 2016, the campaign has become one of the most recognised public safety messages in the country, encouraging passengers to trust their instincts and report anything that doesn&rsquo;t feel right to the British Transport Police.<\/p>\r\n<p>This has led to real action &ndash; more than 200,000 texts are now sent to the British Transport Police each year using 61016, and last year saw an almost tenfold increase since the campaign was launched in 2016. These texts alone &ndash; more than 1.5 million exchanged over the last 10 years &ndash; have led to more than 175,000 police deployments across the rail network.<\/p>\r\n<p>Rail Minister Lord Hendy said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We&rsquo;re committed to making our railways safe, and for a decade, &lsquo;See it. Say it. Sorted.&rsquo; has played a vital role in doing this, supporting the British Transport Police, transforming how people report crimes and issues across the network.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Almost 83,000 crimes have been recorded through the 61016 number &ndash; proof that reporting leads to real action, showing the difference passengers can make simply by speaking up.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Over 60% of people say they feel safer because of visible security measures when travelling and &lsquo;See it. Say it. Sorted.&rsquo; is mandated across every train operator and station in England, Scotland and Wales, making it one of the most visible and widely deployed public safety campaigns in the country.<\/p>\r\n<p>While the campaign is primarily a counter-terrorism campaign, it has evolved as a way of promoting the 61016 number, giving people another way to report a wide range of other crimes and safety issues to the British Transport Police.<\/p>\r\n<p>This includes an incident in March 2025, where a passenger on a train to London Euston witnessed a man viewing graphic child abuse material on his phone and discreetly reported it by texting 61016.<\/p>\r\n<p>Officers intercepted the train, arrested the man and he was sentenced to over 2 years in prison &ndash; showing the difference a single text can make to bring offenders to justice.<\/p>\r\n<p>British Transport Police Chief Constable, Lucy D&rsquo;Orsi, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"For 10 years, &lsquo;See it. Say it. Sorted.&rsquo; has encouraged passengers to report anything that doesn&rsquo;t feel right, helping raise awareness of British Transport Police&rsquo;s 61016 text service, which now receives more than 25,000 messages each month.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The free, discreet service allows passengers to report crime, suspicious behaviour and sexual harassment directly to us, enabling swift action to keep people safe and bring offenders to justice. The public are our eyes and ears on the railway and their vigilance continues to play a vital role in helping keep the network safe.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The government is committed to making sure our railways are safe, and the British Transport Police are receiving an extra &pound;63 million in funding&nbsp;over 3 years for 200 more officers, including 36 officers as part of a new team dedicated specifically to reducing violence and intimidation against women and girls.<\/p>\r\n<p>This is alongside a &pound;17 million investment to improve CCTV at stations, and for the first time rail operators are being assessed on their commitments to tackle violence against women and girls.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-transport\">Department for Transport<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/british-transport-police-authority\">British Transport Police Authority<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/lord-hendy-of-richmond-hill\">Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill CBE<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">More than two thirds of new Civil Service roles created in Places for Growth locations<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Local communities across the UK are benefiting from Civil Service jobs coming closer to home, with four in five civil servants based outside London\r\n\r\n\r\nOver two thirds (c 67%) of all new full-time Civil Service positions in key regional locations.\r\nPlaces for Growth drives economic growth by transf...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Local communities across the UK are benefiting from Civil Service jobs coming closer to home, with four in five civil servants based outside London<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37da9ded915d5a5f965f9c\/s300_cabinet-office.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Over two thirds (c 67%) of all new full-time Civil Service positions in key regional locations.<\/li>\r\n<li>Places for Growth drives economic growth by transferring Civil Service roles to regional hubs across the UK.<\/li>\r\n<li>The government is undertaking a devolution revolution as Whitehall officials to be posted into mayors&rsquo; offices.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Local communities across the UK are benefiting from Civil Service jobs coming closer to home, with four in five civil servants based outside London. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Upon taking office, the Prime Minister promised a clear break from centralisation, pledging to shift power away from Westminster and return decision-making to communities where people live, work, and invest. In the first month of No.10 North he announced a major package of measures to put more Whitehall capacity behind local leaders and help unlock good growth in every postcode.<\/p>\r\n<p>The foundations for the Prime Minister&rsquo;s ambitions are already being built through the Places for Growth programme, which brings the Civil Service closer to the communities it serves.&nbsp; New data shows that since the programme launched to March 2025, 24,621 roles have now moved outside London. This means that the programme has exceeded its 22,000 target three years early.<\/p>\r\n<p>Additionally, progress is being made to move half of Civil Service senior leadership into regions and nations, with 36.6% of UK-based Senior Civil Servants now based out of London as of March 2026. This is crucial for embedding senior leaders into regional communities, to build strong relationships in these places across government and industry. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Cabinet Office Minister, Mark Ferguson said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We are shifting power and decision making to local communities to ensure that we have a truly UK-wide Civil Service.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Policy and decision makers must reflect the country we live in, so those making decisions understand how these are felt in the communities they impact.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This is devolution by design and devolution by default, and we will unlock talent across the country to ensure the inner workings of government move with the times.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>With these building blocks in place to deliver devolution, embedding leaders in the English regions and the Nations ensures relationships become established to enable partnership across central government, with regional and local authorities, as well as industry.&nbsp; The programme supports good jobs and growth in every postcode, spreading opportunity across the country gives people across the country the opportunity to have rewarding careers and serve the public in the Civil Service.<\/p>\r\n<p>Today&rsquo;s news follows the Prime Minister&rsquo;s announcement in August for Whitehall officials to be posted into mayors&rsquo; offices. In a package aimed to support the devolution revolution, high-performing civil servants will be seconded into mayoral authorities to build capability and capacity and accelerate the transfer of power to local areas.<\/p>\r\n<p>In addition to this, a new Civil Service Fast Stream pilot in Yorkshire and Humber was announced, to ensure young people can build successful careers without having to leave the places they call home by relocating to London.<\/p>\r\n<p>The creation of No.10 North is the beating heart of the principle behind these policies, as it has brought together departments behind a shared mission to devolve power and unlock growth across the country.<\/p>\r\n<p>The transition of power outside of London will further strengthen these local ties and bring government functions closer to the communities they serve.&nbsp; Bringing officials closer to the communities they serve to ensure that national policy reflects local realities, drives community investment and establishes a modern public service.<\/p>\r\n<p>By building thriving Civil Service communities nationwide, the Government aims to unlock talent across the country and partner effectively with local leaders to deliver a modern, world-class public service.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/cabinet-office\">Cabinet Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/mark-ferguson\">Mark Ferguson MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Sea Link development consent decision announced<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Sea Link DCO application has today been granted development consent by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero\r\n\r\nThe Sea Link Project comprises construction of a new converter station within 5km of the proposed Friston substation to be connected via High Voltage Alternating Current (HVA...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Sea Link DCO application has today been granted development consent by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae488f816c8facc203ad9c5\/s300_Sea_Link_960.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Sea Link Project comprises construction of a new converter station within 5km of the proposed Friston substation to be connected via High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) underground cables between the new converter station and the proposed Friston substation.<\/p>\r\n<p>The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) Plc on 27 March 2025 and accepted for examination on 23 April 2025.<\/p>\r\n<p>Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 30 July 2026.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>This is the 118th energy application out of 186 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in this six-month examination.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk\/projects\/EN020026\" rel=\"external\">project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website.<\/a>\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>This decision was made by Baroness Curran on behalf of the Energy Secretary&rsquo;s legal authority.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/planning-inspectorate\">Planning Inspectorate<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 2 November 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New action to tackle harassment at work<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Millions of people are set to get stronger protections from sexual harassment at work\r\n\r\n\r\nCrackdown on sexual harassment in the workplace, with employers required to take all reasonable steps to prevent it\r\nStaff to be better protected from all forms of harassment by clients and customers\r\nChanges ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Millions of people are set to get stronger protections from sexual harassment at work<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5e59279b86650c53b2cefbfe\/placeholder.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Crackdown on sexual harassment in the workplace, with employers required to take all reasonable steps to prevent it<\/li>\r\n<li>Staff to be better protected from all forms of harassment by clients and customers<\/li>\r\n<li>Changes come as part of the Employment Rights Act, which will benefit over 18 million workers.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Millions of people are set to get stronger protections from sexual harassment at work from today (Friday 30 October).<\/p>\r\n<p>With nearly a quarter of adults who experience sexual harassment reporting it takes place in the workplace, these changes will ensure employers think seriously about the risks their staff face.<\/p>\r\n<p>Harassment can leave someone dreading their next shift, questioning whether they will be believed or feeling like they have no choice but to tolerate unacceptable behaviour to keep their job. These changes send a clear message: feeling intimidated, humiliated or unsafe should never be part of anyone&rsquo;s working day.<\/p>\r\n<p>Minister for the Future of Work, Kate Dearden said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"No one should have to put up with sexual harassment. From today, employers must start taking stronger action to protect their staff, listening when people speak up and acting before problems emerge.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I pay tribute to the campaigners whose tireless work today delivers the raise in standards to make sure everyone, whatever their job, can go to work and feel safe.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Employers must now take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their staff before it occurs. This could include practical measures like having a clear reporting policy or training staff on handling difficult situations.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Protections have also been strengthened for workers facing all forms of harassment from third parties.&nbsp;Going beyond protections for harassment between colleagues, this will now apply to clients and customers too.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Whether that is a passenger harassing a bus driver, a waiter being intimidated by diners, or a shop worker dealing with abuse from customers, reforms will ensure that unacceptable behaviour is not treated as part of the job.<\/p>\r\n<p>Minister for Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Too many women are being forced to live smaller lives because of the scourge of misogyny, and that includes in the workplace.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Strengthening the law to better protect women at work is an essential step as we work to shift attitudes and build a society where women can live freely not cowed by harassment and abuse.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We&rsquo;re working hand-in-hand with businesses to stamp out misogyny, with our new Misogyny Prevention Fund driving further action through programmes like youth mentoring, workplace training, and nationwide campaigns.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>New measures to support workplace dialogue also start from today, with trade unions gaining strengthened rights for their representatives, as well as stronger rights to access workplaces and secure recognition.<\/p>\r\n<p>These form part of the Government &lsquo;resetting&rsquo; industrial relations and will allow trade unions to educate people about their rights, support conversations between employers and workers, resolve issues before they escalate, and facilitate the conditions for a satisfied workforce. In fact, evidence suggests that more satisfied workers are more productive ones.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-business-innovation-science-and-trade\">Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/office-for-equality-and-opportunity\">Office for Equality and Opportunity<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/kate-dearden\">Kate Dearden MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/bridget-phillipson\">The Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 30 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">PM\u2019s message to Devolved Governments: \u201cWork with me to empower every single part of the UK\u201d<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Prime Minister Andy Burnham makes new offer to work with each nation to place more decision-making in the hands of regions and cities at a meeting with the First Ministers of Scotland and Wales in Glasgow today\r\n\r\n\r\nPM offers to work together for everyone across the UK in meetings with Scotland, Wal...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Prime Minister Andy Burnham makes new offer to work with each nation to place more decision-making in the hands of regions and cities at a meeting with the First Ministers of Scotland and Wales in Glasgow today<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37dae940f0b649cceb1841\/s300_number10.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>PM offers to work together for everyone across the UK in meetings with Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland today<\/li>\r\n<li>Opportunities for young people, reindustrialisation and regional empowerment on the agenda at the first National Economic Council for the nations in Glasgow<\/li>\r\n<li>No10 North offer to work collaboratively to support growth in every postcode<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham makes new offer to work with each nation to place more decision-making in the hands of regions and cities at a meeting with the First Ministers of Scotland and Wales in Glasgow today.<\/p>\r\n<p>At the first National Economic Council for the nations, the Prime Minister will say that devolution by default shouldn&rsquo;t be about the transfer of powers from one Parliament to another but should go deeper within nations to empower all places and communities who know best what they need to grow and access opportunities.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Prime Minister said he would do politics differently when he took office. He is clear that when we share common challenges and the common goal of achieving better outcomes for people across the United Kingdom, we should work together.<\/p>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;Through No10 North, we are rewiring the state. I want to make sure every city and region in the United Kingdom is part of that.<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;Today I&rsquo;ll be making an offer to the governments of each nation. Put politics aside and work in partnership with the UK Government to develop models of regional empowerment that ensure communities can use their own strengths to unlock their potential.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;This is the next stage of devolution. Together, there is no limit to what we can achieve.&rdquo;<\/p>\r\n<p>Devolution works best when it is built from grass roots up, putting control into the hands of the people and the places who know their communities best. The Prime Minister wants to explore closer working with the Devolved Governments through No10 North to drive reindustrialisation, while removing existing barriers to growth.<\/p>\r\n<p>Today&rsquo;s meeting follows the Prime Minister announcing that &pound;1 billion will be invested across the UK over the next four years in innovation clusters to help high potential regions build world-leading industries.<\/p>\r\n<p>And it comes after the Chancellor this week gave families more breathing space and investment for businesses at the Budget, with action on the cost of living, fuel prices and local jobs &ndash; alongside continued funding for the Devolved Governments to provide public services.<\/p>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham is convening the first meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) dedicated to the nations with the First Minister of Scotland John Swinney, the First Minister of Wales Rhun ap Iorwerth and representation from Northern Ireland.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/prime-ministers-office-10-downing-street\">Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 30 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">PM remarks at Rough Sleeping Summit: 26 October 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Prime Minister Andy Burnham&#039;s remarks at the Rough Sleeping Summit\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nThis is the first rough sleeping summit, ladies and gentlemen, here, in Downing Street and looking around the room, I can see so many people have travelled to be with us today.Thank you. Thank you all for doing it.\r\nDoes it ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Prime Minister Andy Burnham's remarks at the Rough Sleeping Summit<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5e03364e3b7c7c52ea4b6d\/Andy-Burnham-Portrait.jpg\" alt=\"The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>This is the first rough sleeping summit, ladies and gentlemen, here, in Downing Street and looking around the room, I can see so many people have travelled to be with us today.<br \/>Thank you. Thank you all for doing it.<\/p>\r\n<p>Does it feel right to be here? I think so.<\/p>\r\n<p>I just wanted you to just dwell on the moment for a minute before we get into the amazing presentations we&rsquo;ve heard, and all the issues we&rsquo;re here to discuss. &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Just think about the significance of the moment for one minute. Because we&rsquo;re gathered here in the most powerful place in the land to talk about people who often feel forgotten, nobody cares.<\/p>\r\n<p>People who feel they&rsquo;re just walked past on a daily basis. So, if nothing else, perhaps the message of what&rsquo;s happening here today gets out of people out there, and makes them feel today if not tomorrow, but certainly today, that somebody might care enough to do something.<\/p>\r\n<p>And I think that&rsquo;s such a powerful place for us all to start today and build from, because I know this country can do what it wants to do when we all pull in the same direction.<\/p>\r\n<p>And I&rsquo;m conscious that in this room we&rsquo;ve got obviously colleagues from the charitable sector, community voluntary sector, but we have lots of private sector colleagues in the room and I wanted to recognise your support too.<\/p>\r\n<p>Keely talked about getting on the phone and I know what it&rsquo;s like when Keely gets on the phone. She can get others behind what she wants. Keely you&rsquo;re amazing, the pride of Wigan, for sure, and what you&rsquo;ve built in The Brick.<\/p>\r\n<p>But people rally to the call, don&rsquo;t they? And I think what we&rsquo;re doing here today, everybody, is creating a focal point for people to rally around. And send a message about who we are as a country as we go forward from here.<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;re a country that doesn&rsquo;t want anybody to have to sleep rough on the streets every night. We are better than that. We can fix this, as Louise said, we did before.<\/p>\r\n<p>So today is about how. How are we going to do it?<\/p>\r\n<p>And I promise you, I&rsquo;ll back up everything you&rsquo;ve just heard from Lorna and from all the speakers that you heard at the start, I will lead from the front.<\/p>\r\n<p>The first thing that I can say to you, which I hope makes it feel a little different, is that for as long as I&rsquo;m here, and as long as this government is in position, this will be permanent.<\/p>\r\n<p>This isn&rsquo;t an initiative that you&rsquo;re used to seeing that comes and goes and then you&rsquo;re left thinking &lsquo;what was all that about?&rsquo;.<\/p>\r\n<p>This is a permanent drive, similar to the one we saw in the 2000s. We&rsquo;ll be at your back all the way through this. So, work with that knowledge, and that confidence to plan for the long fall.<\/p>\r\n<p>We can only do this by doing that, by taking that longer term approach, sticking at it, because while we will offer everybody something this year, a route away, and Angela, it&rsquo;s amazing what you&rsquo;ve done working with Flo, the Homelessness Minister and all of your team to get into a position where we can say that with confidence today that we can give an offer.<\/p>\r\n<p>It&rsquo;s about what follows beyond that, isn&rsquo;t it? What comes next year as well.<\/p>\r\n<p>So we want you to know that the money is there, we will be backing you all of the way.<\/p>\r\n<p>The second thing I want to commit to you today is this is a whole government approach. We need all parts of government behind this as well, all departments.<\/p>\r\n<p>And we have raised this at Cabinet a number of times already, we have that buy-in from all departments.<\/p>\r\n<p>So I want you to know, it is that whole government but also, as represented in this room, whole society approach to tackling this issue with our colleagues in local government, and it&rsquo;s good to see Councillor Eamonn O&rsquo;Brien, Chair of the LGA with us today.<\/p>\r\n<p>It&rsquo;s only by having everyone facing the same way, pulling the same way, that we&rsquo;ll make the difference that we all want to make.<\/p>\r\n<p>I did a lot as Mayor of Greater Manchester on this, and I went on something of a journey myself, working with Kevin Lee who&rsquo;s here as well, who&rsquo;s been pulling this event together.<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;ve discovered a lot that we didn&rsquo;t know before we started, and it is really important to always bear in mind that this is about recovery.<\/p>\r\n<p>It&rsquo;s about helping people who often have suffered trauma in their life go on a journey of recovery.<\/p>\r\n<p>And it&rsquo;s not possible to put a time frame on that journey, it will be different for everybody.<\/p>\r\n<p>But if you think about it in that way, and also that every single person, whoever they are, what they&rsquo;ve been through, is capable of recovery and it&rsquo;s our job to help them on that journey.<\/p>\r\n<p>We had a mantra in Greater Manchester, and today I&rsquo;m making it the national mantra that underpins this collective drive that we&rsquo;re all going on together everybody, this collective journey: names not numbers.<\/p>\r\n<p>That&rsquo;s how, Lorna, I think you start to end homelessness.<\/p>\r\n<p>Following this message, think about the name, the individual, the person right there in front of you.<\/p>\r\n<p>Start there, and then work from there.<\/p>\r\n<p>We know that everything is possible when government works on that principle, when society works on that principle. And that&rsquo;s what will guide us, that&rsquo;s the way we will do it.<\/p>\r\n<p>And I want to stress, whole society. And I want to pay tribute to the Reverend Ian Rutherford who is here with us today, who chaired the Greater Manchester Homelessness Action Network during my time as Mayor.<\/p>\r\n<p>I can see representatives from the faith sector in the room and it&rsquo;s so important that you&rsquo;re with us today because in the end you can have the names on numbers approach, but you&rsquo;ve got to use it to build something else, which is trust.<\/p>\r\n<p>You&rsquo;ve got to get that trust off people if you&rsquo;re then to be able to go on that journey away from the street together.<\/p>\r\n<p>And we know working with our faith organisations and all of our communities, you can bring that extra dimension to the work that we&rsquo;re all going to do together, and we really thank you for it.<\/p>\r\n<p>So we&rsquo;ve got all of the ingredients, haven&rsquo;t we? It&rsquo;s all there.<\/p>\r\n<p>I know times are tough, but this is the right thing to do in any circumstances. It is just the right thing to do.<\/p>\r\n<p>But I remember when I was in the journey of trying to persuade people to get behind our driving in Greater Manchester.<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;ve also got to be conscious when we speak to the rest of the country, the taxpayers of this country, that actually, to leave people sleeping rough has financial consequences.<\/p>\r\n<p>It doesn&rsquo;t work for anybody and it doesn&rsquo;t work for the public purse. Because if you leave people in a position where they are in and out of A&amp;E and in and out of a hospital bed, that doesn&rsquo;t make sense for anybody. There is a rock-solid business case to do something to end homelessness, to put people on a path to recovery so that they can contribute once again and that also should be the thinking that we take to this conversation.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you find anybody in your area who says we can&rsquo;t afford to do it, tell them from me, directly from here, that we can&rsquo;t afford not to do it and in fact not to do it is more wasteful of public resources, but it&rsquo;s worse than that, far worse than that, it&rsquo;s wasteful of people&rsquo;s potential, it&rsquo;s wasteful of people&rsquo;s possibilities that they have in their life to get back to what matters to them in their lives. And never ever hear that and don&rsquo;t challenge it.<\/p>\r\n<p>We will do this, everybody, we will. I am absolutely certain of it, when I look round this room I know that you are all powerhouses in your communities when it comes to this issue. I know, like Keely, you&rsquo;re the people who don&rsquo;t take no for an answer because of the people that you are, you pull people around you.<\/p>\r\n<p>Let&rsquo;s make this a turning point in this country.<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;ve been living in a time where people feel that nothing can be fixed, that everything is too difficult and then people just sense that they will see the sad picture of people sleeping on our streets.<\/p>\r\n<p>Well let&rsquo;s show them that it can be fixed, it can be done because this is a challenge that is not beyond us.<\/p>\r\n<p>If we go at this from a &lsquo;names not numbers&rsquo; approach. Go at it with a care for people.<\/p>\r\n<p>I spoke outside Downing Street when I walked in three months ago, just over, on that morning.<\/p>\r\n<p>I said I was going to put a care for people at the heart of government. And the fact that we are talking about people in this country with some of the biggest challenges today, if we get the country right for people with the biggest challenges, we&rsquo;ll get it right for everybody. But let&rsquo;s look at this through a vision of care.<\/p>\r\n<p>We did something in Greater Manchester that was something of a game changer.<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;d always looked at people when they presented as homeless, through the Homelessness Act and the provisions it had around whether people could have access to support or not. And that was quite restrictive and it meant more people were turned away than were supported, until Manchester City Council, to their great credit, decided to use the Care Act as the Act that they would use to judge whether or not they were going to help somebody.<\/p>\r\n<p>And you know what? In the vast majority of cases, they then found that they did have an obligation to support people, and then they started to work with everybody pretty much who came through the door.<\/p>\r\n<p>So let&rsquo;s put a care for people at the heart of everything that we&rsquo;re doing here. Let&rsquo;s celebrate the fact that we have gathered in this room all sections of British society and you&rsquo;re here because you&rsquo;re ready to work together.<\/p>\r\n<p>I never let it be said that one organisation comes to me and says, &lsquo;Oh, we know everything how to do this&rsquo;. It won&rsquo;t be solved like that. It will be solved by the network of organisations working together.<\/p>\r\n<p>The problem is bigger than all of us on its own, but when we work together, we can become bigger than the problem and we can solve it.<\/p>\r\n<p>So, I am just so grateful that you are here, that you are on this journey with us.<\/p>\r\n<p>We will be with you all of the way, that will never change, we&rsquo;re at your back, we will make this work, we will show that this country is unbeatable when it works as one, we will fix this, as Louise said, &lsquo;we&rsquo;ve done it before, we&rsquo;re going to do it again&rsquo;.<\/p>\r\n<p>And just think how it will feel if we get to the end of this year, and if I could just finish on this point and you know in your heart and we know at a national level that we did give every single person an offer of help at this end of year.<\/p>\r\n<p>I started by saying that they might hear about this in the news today, and think about that for a minute, what that would mean in your communities, people hearing about an event like this.<\/p>\r\n<p>Wouldn&rsquo;t it be just terrible if we then didn&rsquo;t follow through and made sure that it turned into something tangible for every single person?<\/p>\r\n<p>I am asking you all from the front here today: please, we must turn this into something tangible for everybody.<\/p>\r\n<p>It doesn&rsquo;t mean that everybody will be able to take up the offer and everybody will be able to have their life turned around.<\/p>\r\n<p>But the fact that we give them that offer will put enough hope in their heart that something will be coming and something will change as we go into the new year.<\/p>\r\n<p>That&rsquo;s our collective mission, everybody.<\/p>\r\n<p>I&rsquo;m so proud that you have answered the call that I made just over three months ago.<\/p>\r\n<p>Together we will do it, and we will show the power that this country still has when it works as one. Thank you very much.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/prime-ministers-office-10-downing-street\">Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 30 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Secretary of State announces appointment of a new Civil Service Commissioner for Northern Ireland<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Appointment of new Civil Service Commissioner\r\n\r\nThe Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Right Honourable Sir Chris Bryant MP, has today announced the appointment of Dr Cathy Gormley-Heenan OBE as a Civil Service Commissioner for Northern Ireland with effect from 1 November 2026.\r\nBackgroun...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Appointment of new Civil Service Commissioner<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6708fb1de84ae1fd8592f1ec\/s300_NIO_Gov.uk_banner.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Right Honourable Sir Chris Bryant MP, has today announced the appointment of Dr Cathy Gormley-Heenan OBE as a Civil Service Commissioner for Northern Ireland with effect from 1 November 2026.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"background\">Background<\/h3>\r\n<p>Civil Service Commissioners are appointed under the Northern Ireland Constitution Act 1973 by the King, on recommendation from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. Their function is to regulate appointments to the Northern Ireland Civil Service and under the terms of the Civil Service Commissioners (Northern Ireland) Order 1999, the Commissioners also have the power to consider, and determine, appeals to them by civil servants under the Northern Ireland Civil Service Code of Ethics.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Further information on the work of the Commissioners is available at:<\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nicscommissioners.org\/\" rel=\"external\">https:\/\/www.nicscommissioners.org\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"terms-of-appointment\">Terms of appointment<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>This position is part-time for a period of five years ending on 31 October 2031.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>The position receives a daily fee of &pound;300.<\/li>\r\n<li>The position is not pensionable.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 id=\"biographies\">Biographies<\/h3>\r\n<p>Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan OBE is the University Provost at Ulster University, a Trustee of the British-Irish Association, and a Board member of the NI Chamber of Commerce, and Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation (MLKDC), and a former Commissioner for the Independent Fiscal Commission for Northern Ireland, alongside various other board level roles and responsibilities.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"political-activity\">Political Activity<\/h3>\r\n<p>All appointments are made on merit and with regards to the statutory requirements. Political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees&rsquo; political activity in defined categories to be made public.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Dr Cathy Gormley-Heenan OBE declared that she has not been politically active in the last five years.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"regulation\">Regulation<\/h3>\r\n<p>Appointments to the Civil Service Commissioners for Northern Ireland are not regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"statutory-requirements\">Statutory Requirements<\/h3>\r\n<p>Appointments to the Civil Service Commissioners for Northern Ireland are made under the provisions of section 36 (1) of the Northern Ireland Constitution Act 1973.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/northern-ireland-office\">Northern Ireland Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/chris-bryant\">The Rt Hon Sir Chris Bryant MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 30 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Students tackle public policy challenges with support from GAD<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Postgraduate students have presented research on health, social care and climate risks after completing projects supported by GAD industry supervisors\r\nSix Masters students have presented research projects exploring some of the biggest long-term challenges facing the public sector, with support from...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Postgraduate students have presented research on health, social care and climate risks after completing projects supported by GAD industry supervisors<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p>Six Masters students have presented research projects exploring some of the biggest long-term challenges facing the public sector, with support from experts at the Government Actuary&rsquo;s Department (GAD).<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"industry-supervisors\">Industry supervisors<\/h2>\r\n<p>The students were from Bayes Business School at City St George&rsquo;s, University of London, and the University of York, which hosts the Centre for Health Economics. The students worked on projects examining health, welfare, social care and climate-related risks.<\/p>\r\n<p>GAD colleagues acted as industry supervisors, helping students develop their research and apply academic methods to real-world issues that could impact on future policy.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"demographic-health-and-environmental-challenges\">Demographic, health and environmental challenges<\/h2>\r\n<p>Projects covered a wide range of topics. Students investigated different approaches to measuring population health, including healthy life expectancy and quality-adjusted life years, and explored whether health metrics could help improve understanding of future welfare benefit uptake.<\/p>\r\n<p>Other research explored health-economic evidence on adult social care, including comparisons with Sweden, while another project considered different ways that climate change could affect morbidity in the UK.<\/p>\r\n<p>The projects explored how demographic change, population health and climate-related risks could inform future policy and decision-making.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"testimonials\">Testimonials<\/h2>\r\n<p>&ldquo;It&rsquo;s been a great experience working with GAD and I know our students enjoyed&nbsp;the challenge. The outcomes exceeded all expectations, and we look forward to continuing the collaboration in future.&rdquo;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Les Mayhew, Bayes Business School - Faculty&nbsp;of Actuarial&nbsp;Science and Insurance<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;Working with GAD gave our students an excellent opportunity to apply their actuarial training to real public-sector problems, under the guidance of experienced professionals and with joint academic supervision. They developed technical, communication and teamwork skills that go well beyond the classroom, and we are very grateful to GAD for their generous support and mentoring.&rdquo;<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Ioannis Kyriakou, Bayes Business School - Faculty of Actuarial Science and Insurance<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;We are grateful to the Government Actuary&rsquo;s Department for offering three exciting placements to our students in the MSc in health economics at the University of York on topics at the forefront of policy discussions such as health, life expectancy, climate change, and social care.&rdquo;<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Luigi Siciliani, University of York - Department of Economics and Related Studies<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"gads-role\">GAD&rsquo;s role<\/h2>\r\n<p>Industry supervisor support forms part of GAD&rsquo;s wider commitment to sharing expertise and helping develop the next generation of analysts and researchers. Collaborations with universities enable students to gain experience of public sector challenges while giving GAD the opportunity to explore emerging ideas and different approaches to research.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/government-actuarys-department\">Government Actuary's Department<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 30 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Local Government Reorganisation moves forward in five counties<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Ministers have confirmed that the programme is continuing and remains aligned with the wider plans to shift power out of Westminster\r\n\r\nFive areas have moved closer to streamlined local government in their area as the government announced the next steps in its review of Local Government Reorganisati...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Ministers have confirmed that the programme is continuing and remains aligned with the wider plans to shift power out of Westminster<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae3318ed22fc5fecb3eb784\/s300_BUILDING.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Five areas have moved closer to streamlined local government in their area as the government announced the next steps in its review of Local Government Reorganisation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Following the announcement of a review last month, Ministers have confirmed that the programme is continuing and remains aligned with the wider plans to shift power out of Westminster and back to local communities, including those announced at this week&rsquo;s Budget.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government is now minded-to go ahead with reorganisation in five areas. There will be a period of three weeks minimum for further representations before final decisions are taken.<\/p>\r\n<p>The five areas where the government is minded to proceed are:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>In East Sussex and Brighton and Hove, the two unitary proposal including boundary changes requested by Brighton and Hove City Council, except for the parish of Falmer.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>The one unitary proposal in Gloucestershire;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>The three unitary proposal in Oxfordshire, including boundary changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>The two unitary proposal in Warwickshire;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>The two unitary proposal in Worcestershire;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The Government remains committed to the reorganisation programme.&nbsp;Ministers will consider the best way forward for all remaining areas in the programme &ndash; 15 in total, including the nine areas which had reorganisation paused in September and which now have their decisions withdrawn.<\/p>\r\n<p>Withdrawing these decisions does not mean reorganisation has been cancelled in these areas. All options and proposals remain under consideration in these areas and every area will have an outcome by early next year.<\/p>\r\n<p>Local elections in these areas will go ahead in May 2027 on existing council boundaries, providing certainty for local leaders and communities.&nbsp; New councils will be established for 2029, with elections to shadow councils in May 2028.<\/p>\r\n<p>All areas with previous decisions will receive &pound;450,000 per the number of previously announced new unitary authorities from the &pound;63 million capacity fund, to cover costs incurred in implementing reorganisation. Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and West Sussex will each receive &pound;500,000 as decisions have yet to be made there.&nbsp; This funding will be paid in the coming weeks. The remaining balance will be paid after final decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"minister-for-local-government-devolution-and-regional-growth-jim-mcmahon-obe-told-parliament-today\">Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth Jim McMahon OBE told Parliament today:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Yesterday&rsquo;s budget showed that we are committed to giving local leaders, local councils and local communities the tools to shape their own future.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"No areas want to see a return to two-tiers once strong unitary councils are in place&hellip; The decisions that we take now will be the building blocks for how this country is governed for generations to come.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Reorganisation in Surrey will remain unaffected with two new unitary authorities &ndash; East and West Surrey &ndash; going live in April 2027.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The government has heard concerns from places about retaining their city status and has committed to making it a priority to protect them and will consider all available options &ndash; including bringing in new legislation if necessary.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"for-more-information\"><br \/>For more information:<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h3 id=\"areas-where-government-is-minded-to-proceed\">Areas where government is minded to proceed:<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>East Sussex and Brighton and Hove: Two unitary proposal submitted by East Sussex County Council, Eastbourne Borough Council, Hastings Borough Council, Lewes District Council and Rother District Council - with the boundary change requested by Brighton and Hove City Council, with the exception of Falmer parish.<\/li>\r\n<li>Gloucestershire: One unitary proposal submitted by Cotswold District Council, Gloucestershire County Council, Stroud District Council, and Tewkesbury Borough Council.<\/li>\r\n<li>Oxfordshire: Three unitary proposal submitted by Oxford City Council, including the adjoining area of West Berkshire Council - with the boundary change Oxford City Council requested alongside the proposal.<\/li>\r\n<li>Warwickshire: Two unitary proposal submitted by North Warwickshire Borough Council, Nuneaton &amp; Bedworth Borough Council, Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwick District Council.<\/li>\r\n<li>Worcestershire: Two unitary proposal submitted by Bromsgrove District Council, Malvern Hills District Council, Redditch Borough Council, Worcester City Council and Wychavon District Council.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 id=\"areas-remaining-under-review\"><br \/>15 areas remaining under review:<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<h3 id=\"nine-areas-where-decisions-are-now-withdrawn-and-will-be-reconsidered\">Nine areas where decisions are now withdrawn and will be reconsidered:<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Derbyshire and Derby&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Devon, Plymouth and Torbay&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Hertfordshire&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Kent and Medway&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Leicestershire, Leicester, and Rutland&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire<\/li>\r\n<li>Nottinghamshire and Nottingham&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 id=\"four-areas-where-decisions-were-withdrawn-in-september\">Four areas where decisions were withdrawn in September:<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Essex, Southend on Sea and Thurrock&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Norfolk&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Suffolk<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 id=\"two-areas-which-are-awaiting-decisions\">Two areas which are awaiting decisions:<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Cambridgeshire and Peterborough&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>West Sussex<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/jim-mcmahon\">Jim McMahon OBE MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 29 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Environment Secretary commits to take further action against water bosses over pollution<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Government&amp;rsquo;s first ever joint regulator report leaves nowhere to hide for water companies\r\n\r\nThe Environment Secretary is set to take further action against failing water companies, with tougher consequences for executives at persistently underperforming firms, and demanding action on the wors...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Government&rsquo;s first ever joint regulator report leaves nowhere to hide for water companies<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37dad1ed915d5a62fdc6d6\/s300_defra-sign-grey.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Environment Secretary is set to take further action against failing water companies, with tougher consequences for executives at persistently underperforming firms, and demanding action on the worst pollution incidents.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Intending to shine a harsh light on these serious incidents, Ministers will visit a number of sites to interrogate companies&rsquo; responses. Dame Angela Eagle will also be looking at options to strengthen the ban on executives&rsquo; bonuses.<\/p>\r\n<p>It follows the first ever joint report from the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, the Drinking Water Inspectorate and Ofwat, which leaves nowhere for underperforming companies to hide.<\/p>\r\n<p>The watchdogs have pooled their data for the first time, closing loopholes that let failing firms point to a good score from one regulator while falling short with another. It marks another significant step towards a more integrated, joined-up approach to water regulation, ahead of the creation of a single new water regulator for England and Wales.<\/p>\r\n<p>The joint report is published alongside the Environment Agency&rsquo;s Environmental Performance Assessment Report, which starkly demonstrates that pollution incidents remain far too high, with only one company achieving the top four-star rating.<\/p>\r\n<p>There were six Category 1 incidents during 2025, each representing an unacceptable failure by water companies to protect people and the environment. These sites will be prioritised for visits by the Environment Secretary.<\/p>\r\n<p>In addition, the Environment Secretary will set out a clear set of improvement actions for each water company. These will include tackling leakage from pipes, delivering sustained reductions in pollution incidents, and improving customer satisfaction scores.<\/p>\r\n<p>One-star ratings automatically mean that bonuses will be blocked for executives at Southern Water, Thames Water, South West Water and Yorkshire Water &ndash; thanks to new rules which took effect in 2025.<\/p>\r\n<p>The same applies to any water company with a Category 1 pollution incident &ndash; these are incidents which have a major, serious, persistent and\/or extensive impact or effect on the environment, people and\/or property.<\/p>\r\n<p>While these shocking failures will automatically trigger bonus bans for six Chief Executives under the existing rules, the Environment Secretary recognises that executives are continuing to be rewarded in spite of persistent underperformance. Further details on strengthening the bonus ban are expected to be set out in the coming weeks.<\/p>\r\n<p>This comes after the Environment Secretary took the unprecedented step of clearly setting expectations for the next Price Review, warning companies they must deliver better value for money for struggling households.<\/p>\r\n<p>Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Water companies have let the public down time and time again, and today&rsquo;s report is further proof that root-and-branch reform cannot wait.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"People are sick of excuses. They want clean rivers, lakes and seas, and the certainty that every pound they pay is being invested wisely, not wasted.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I am demanding answers from the companies that are failing, and I&rsquo;ll be shining a spotlight on the worst offences around the country. We are getting on with the job of building a water system that finally works for the people who pay for it.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>By pooling their data, the regulators are closing the gaps between environmental and financial regulation, giving the public a fuller and more transparent picture of how water companies are performing than ever before, and making it harder for failing companies to point to a good score from one regulator while falling short with the other. The aim is simple &ndash; greater transparency, tougher collective scrutiny, and restored public trust in an industry that has tested it badly.<\/p>\r\n<p>Ministers will meet the chief executives of underperforming companies to demand answers to both performance and updates the delivery of key infrastructure improvements.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government has made clear that nothing is off the table when it comes to holding underperforming companies to account. Where companies fail to deliver, regulators will not hesitate to use the full range of enforcement powers available, including fines and prosecutions.<\/p>\r\n<p>Government has already delivered the biggest increase in regulators&rsquo; powers in a decade through the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025, the introduction of rapid automatic penalties and is going further and faster to strengthen powers through the strengthened Water Bill to build on this to ensure persistent failure carries more consequences.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs\">Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/angela-eagle\">The Rt Hon Dame Angela Eagle DBE MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 29 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Regulators publish first joint report on water industry performance, giving the public a clearer picture of company performance<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Regulators join forces for first combined report on water company performance\r\n\r\nThe Drinking Water Inspectorate, Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales and Ofwat have today published the first Water Industry Performance Insights report. The four regulators have brought their evidence together,...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Regulators join forces for first combined report on water company performance<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/62c56ed9d3bf7f30034430da\/s300_EA-officer-high-viz-jacket_960x640.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Drinking Water Inspectorate, Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales and Ofwat have today published the first <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/water-industry-performance-insights-joint-regulator-report\">Water Industry Performance Insights report<\/a>. The four regulators have brought their evidence together, giving the public, governments and industry a single, clear view of how the water industry is performing.<\/p>\r\n<p>The report reflects a shared commitment by regulators to transparency, accountability and driving improvements across the sector for consumers and the environment. It marks a step towards a more integrated, joined-up approach to water regulation, as signalled by the UK and Welsh Governments, who have outlined a once-in-a-generation programme to transform the water system, including the Water Bill.<\/p>\r\n<p>Water touches every part of daily life. People expect clean, safe drinking water. They expect services to keep working during drought and that their rivers and coastlines are protected. Regulators exist to hold companies to account for that and to ensure the protection of public health and the environment.<\/p>\r\n<p>Designed to give an overview of individual water companies&rsquo; performance, the joint report sits alongside the regulators&rsquo; individual annual performance reports. EA, NRW and Ofwat have published these more in-depth reports today - with DWI publishing their report back in July - and together they provide a data driven insight into the performance of the water industry.<\/p>\r\n<p>The joint report shows a mixed picture, but with strengths to build on:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Drinking water quality remains among the best in the world, with 99.97% of tests meeting the required standards.<\/li>\r\n<li>Companies have reduced internal sewer flooding in homes and local businesses, a particularly distressing customer failure, by 43% in recent years.<\/li>\r\n<li>Leakage has reduced over the long term, but with all companies facing growing pressure on water resources, particularly during drought, further reductions are needed.<\/li>\r\n<li>Household consumption remains similar to the previous year, at 137.3 litres per person per day.<\/li>\r\n<li>Water supply interruptions performance across the sector has improved, though some customers continue to experience long-duration interruptions.<\/li>\r\n<li>Pollution incidents remain one of the main areas of concern, with 2,991 incidents across England and Wales in 2025, including 84 classed as serious.<\/li>\r\n<li>Just 93.7% of required environmental improvement actions were completed on time, with 142 of 2,254 planned actions not delivered.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The Environment Agency&rsquo;s Environmental Performance Assessment (EPA) continues to expose the scale of environmental underperformance by water and sewerage companies with a further decline in EPA star ratings to 16 stars out of a possible 36. Where performance falls short, the EA will not hesitate to take enforcement action, including prosecutions and financial penalties, against the worst-performing companies.<\/p>\r\n<p>Marcus Rink, Chief Inspector of the Drinking Water Inspectorate said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Consumers in England and Wales can have continued confidence that their drinking water remains among the highest quality in the world, with 99.97% of tests meeting the strict standards that protect public health. That is a record the industry should be proud of.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This report marks a significant first step, bringing four regulators together for the first time to give a more transparent and collaborative picture of the water sector. It is a foundation we intend to build on, working ever more closely to ensure clean and resilient drinking water supply now and for the future.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Philip Duffy, Chief Executive at the Environment Agency, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"People expect two simple things: safe water from their taps and clean, healthy rivers. Today&rsquo;s report shows good performance on drinking water quality, but on wastewater and pollution the sector is still falling short.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We are stepping up inspections and enforcement and will use our powers to hold water companies to account and drive the improvements people and the environment deserve.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Helen Campbell, Interim Executive Director for Delivery at Ofwat, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Customers rightly expect the record investment approved by Ofwat to deliver tangible improvements in their daily lives and for the environment.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Over the past year we have seen some step up to this challenge, but this is inconsistent and poor performance continues in too many places.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The responsibility sits with water companies to deliver on what they have agreed to, and we will continue to work across regulators to drive stronger outcomes.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Ceri Davies, Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Improving water quality is one of the most significant environmental challenges we face. This joint insights report provides a clearer picture of water company performance by bringing together evidence from across the regulatory systems.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"While progress has been made in some areas, there is more to do. We will continue to work with partners across the sector to drive improvements that benefit people, nature and the resilience of our water environment.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Today&rsquo;s figures reflect greater scrutiny as much as they do underlying performance. Where performance falls short, regulators will act, using the full range of tools available, including fines, enforcement action and requirements for companies to fix problems. Regulators will support companies where they are improving and continue to challenge them where standards aren&rsquo;t met.<\/p>\r\n<p>Water companies have committed record levels of investment for 2025 to 2030, with over &pound;104 billion to upgrade water and sewage networks. Regulators are committed to ensuring this investment is well spent and delivers for customers, communities and the environment.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/environment-agency\">Environment Agency<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 29 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Working for the National Cyber Force (NCF) \u2013 case studies<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Discover career stories from around the National Cyber Force\r\n\r\nDaniel, NCF cyber operations&amp;nbsp;\r\nDaniel gained IT skills in the workplace before obtaining a degree in ethical hacking as a mature student. Upon graduating he joined GCHQ and then made the move into NCF.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;\r\nWhat is your rol...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Discover career stories from around the National Cyber Force<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adb417d9223b6191dab3346\/s300_NCF_Stock_-_Women_Managing_Servers.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"daniel-ncf-cyber-operations\">Daniel, NCF cyber operations&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Daniel gained IT skills in the workplace before obtaining a degree in ethical hacking as a mature student. Upon graduating he joined GCHQ and then made the move into NCF.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is your role in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I work as a security specialist within NCF operations. It is my role is to work with colleagues and partners to gather intelligence to support operations.&nbsp; The work is incredibly interesting, challenging and requires us to stay on top of the latest developments in our respective fields.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is it like to work in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;re given a lot of time to develop new skills and the latitude to approach problems in whichever way we think makes the most sense. The people here are diverse, driven and welcoming; it&rsquo;s a great team and I&rsquo;m proud to be a part of it.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Any tips you can share for people interested in a cyber focussed career?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/techfirst\">TechFirst<\/a> a government-backed outreach and education programme designed to create opportunities for talented young people in future-focused tech careers.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"ellie-national-cyber-force-outreach-team\">Ellie, National Cyber Force Outreach Team&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Ellie&rsquo;s interest in working for the intelligence community was sparked during a visit from GCHQ to her school. This led to her decision to include two STEM subjects at A Level and complete a 12-month computing course before applying to the GCHQ Apprenticeship scheme.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What motivated you to apply to work for the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>My final placement on the GCHQ apprenticeship led me to the National Cyber Force, and I applied to join for my first permanent position. It&rsquo;s a fascinating area of work and offers a wide variety of roles, from hands on work, to more strategic elements, and the chance to work with a variety of organisations, all contributing to national security.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What do you like most about working for the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Being part of this mission makes me feel proud. It also offers me further opportunities to utilise my STEM skills and experience, including work on outreach programmes with schools, getting involved in initiatives like Women in Engineering, Science and Technology festivals and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>There are so many opportunities for personal growth through leadership development programmes - I&rsquo;m excited for what the future has in store as I continue to develop my career in the National Cyber Force.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"derek-leads-a-team-of-developers-in-ncf\">Derek, leads a team of developers in NCF<\/h2>\r\n<p>Derek made the move to NCF from Dstl.&nbsp; Although he had run small companies, worked in the defence industry and academia, Derek had limited cyber domain experience with no formal cyber training. He opted for a career change in his 50s.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>You don&rsquo;t have formal cyber qualifications. Has this been a barrier in your NCF role?<\/p>\r\n<p>I didn&rsquo;t have much experience of working in the cyber domain before I joined NCF, but I&rsquo;ve been able to fulfil my full potential because NCF invested in my technical education with targeted training that complemented the skills I already had.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What do you enjoy about working in the National Cyber Force?<\/p>\r\n<p>It is safe to say that my younger self wouldn&rsquo;t have imagined that I&rsquo;d have ended up with an incredible job that gives me immense personal satisfaction. Working with amazing people on challenging tasks that directly contribute to the nation&rsquo;s security and military capability.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>It&rsquo;s a great place to work. Nothing in my previous working life gave me the fulfilment that I get from working on my current projects. I&rsquo;m very happy with my decision to work here.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What do you value about working for the National Cyber Force?<\/p>\r\n<p>What really stands out to me is NCF&rsquo;s understanding of the value of a diverse workforce with a wide range of life experiences. Bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences creates an environment where innovation and creativity can flourish which ultimately achieves incredible results.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"joe-cyberspace-specialist-\">Joe, Cyberspace Specialist &nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Joe is a cyber space engineer who joined the RAF six years ago and is posted to the National Cyber Force.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What motivated you to pursue a posting to the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I was keen to pursue a posting to the National Cyber Force because of the partnership&rsquo;s excellent reputation and the exciting and unique defence challenges it sets out.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is your role in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>My primary role is to support military colleagues joining the National Cyber Force from their initial interview stage though to onboarding. I also support their ongoing training needs. In addition, I have an operational role which I very much enjoy.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is it like to work in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The National Cyber Force is considered a highly desirable and technical partnership to work for within my branch, and it has more than lived up to my expectations.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"isobel-head-of-edi-for-ncf\">Isobel, Head of EDI for NCF&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Isobel started her career as a linguist in GCHQ and spent four fascinating years in this operational role before making the move to NCF as Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead. She is now Head of EDI for the partnership.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is your role in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>As Head of EDI for NCF, I&rsquo;m required to think strategically, and take responsibility and accountability for the delivery of our EDI strategy. I also report to, guide, and work with leaders across NCF to drive forward positive changes. It&rsquo;s a challenging, busy, and rewarding job, where I can see tangible change because of my team&rsquo;s hard work.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is it like to work in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I&rsquo;ve been amazed by the richness of the NCF partnership and have benefitted from the diverse perspectives our partners bring. NCF offers an unrivalled opportunity to learn how other organisations overcome challenges and approach tasks, enabling us to become more than the sum of our parts by sharing experience and best practice.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>To a greater extent than anywhere else I have worked, curiosity is encouraged here, and my colleagues have consistently gone above and beyond to answer my questions in a way I can understand.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I could not have asked for a more supportive working environment; here I have the freedom to be creative and take calculated risks while knowing there&rsquo;s always help available if I need it. I&rsquo;ve been empowered to work at the edge of my comfort zone, which has helped me to learn, grow, and develop my career.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"olivia-ncf-global-partnership-team\">Olivia, NCF Global Partnership Team&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Olivia joined the Ministry of Defence as a civil servant before making the move to the National Cyber Force.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What made you decide to choose a career in cyber?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>My cyber journey started at university when, whilst looking for an escape from my dissertation on the American War of Independence, I took a new module on the use of cyber in modern conflicts. I was intrigued but thought this type of work was only for those with specialist computer skills and thought nothing further of it when I joined the civil service.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Within three years I found myself promoting UK cyber companies overseas and now I am developing the UK&rsquo;s National Cyber Force international relations with our partners and close allies.\u202f\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is it like to work for the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The fact that I am here with no technological background demonstrates that the National Cyber Force seeks people with diverse thoughts, backgrounds and experiences. This diversity brings a &lsquo;whole of society&rsquo; mindset to the National Cyber Force, enabling us to overcome the threats that confront us in line with the UK&rsquo;s democratic values as well as our domestic and international law.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The UK is an important global nation, and with the National Cyber Force, it is also a responsible and leading cyber power.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"robert-ncf-cyber-capability-team-leader\">Robert, NCF Cyber Capability Team Leader&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Robert is a Captain in the Royal Navy. He joined as a Warfare Officer, progressing to become an expert in electronic warfare and specialising in navigating and directing the fight aspects of war ships.&nbsp; Robert has a posting with the National Cyber Force.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is your role in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I currently work in a team focussed on turning the nation&rsquo;s requirements for cyber capabilities into viable, tangible outcomes for the UK Government. This includes tackling terrorism, preventing cyberspace being used as a platform for serious and organised crime and supporting military operations on the ground.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>My role ensures the NCF&rsquo;s offering is integrated as part of national level campaigns, giving the UK the strategic edge needed to remain a world-leading and responsible cyber power.\u202f\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is it like to work for the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>My experience of naval warfare, the nautical environment, military telecommunications, and cyber operations give me unique insight into how the maritime domain overlaps with cyber.\u202f\u202f My posting to the National Cyber Force has meant I have had the chance to carry out four roles within the cyber domain.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>These include, managing the delivery of the National Offensive Cyber Programme (a precursor to NCF) to commanding the military workforce contribution to the NCF as one of the Navy&rsquo;s first cyber practitioners. A long way from building my first computer at the age of 12.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"flight-lieutenant-david-ncf-training-and-education-team\">Flight Lieutenant David, NCF Training and Education team&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>David began his career as a teacher before joining the Royal Air Force (RAF) as an Education and Training Officer becoming an expert in training management and learning and development.&nbsp;His experience across the air domain ventured into logistics, policing, administration and flying training before broadening into the cyber domain.\u202fHe now works in the National Cyber Force Cyber Training and Education team.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is your role in the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I work in the National Cyber Force Cyber Training and Education team. In my role I analyse the requirements for current and future cyber roles, where I design and deliver learning solutions to train and upskill the NCF staff.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>To do this I regularly meet with some of the best operators in this field to understand their requirements and turn them into tangible solutions, for current and future problems.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is it like to work for the National Cyber Force?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>For me, the NCF has been a thoroughly open and diverse organisation that has welcomed me, and anybody across the partnership that I&rsquo;ve seen, with open arms. We understand the nature of a partnership and encourage new ideas, or the use of existing ideas, to keep moving forward.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>We value people from all backgrounds, including non-technical backgrounds, as demonstrated in my case. For an organisation that has only been around since 2020, it feels modern, respectful, inclusive and the sense of purpose whilst I have been here, has been second to none.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Cyber Direct Entry Scheme is another route into the National Cyber Force. Thomas and Christopher give their perspectives on the scheme and experience of working in NCF through their own stories.<\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/cyber-direct-entry-scheme\">The Ministry of Defence (MOD) Cyber Direct Entry Scheme<\/a> offers a unique opportunity to join UK Defence in specialist military cyber roles without following the traditional career pathway. Formal qualifications and training are not necessarily required.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Across their time with Defence, cyber direct entrants can expect to serve and gain experience in a variety of roles, including working within the National Cyber Force.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"thomas-ministry-of-defence-cyber-direct-entry-scheme-raf-entrant\">Thomas, Ministry of Defence Cyber Direct Entry Scheme RAF Entrant&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Thomas read Computer Science at University with a focus on Software Engineering and Cyber Security. Alongside his university studies, he was part of the University Officer Training Corps (UOTC). After graduating he transferred to a local reserve unit and worked in retail for several months before starting in the RAF via Cyber Direct Entry.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Why did you decide to apply to Cyber Direct Entry?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Joining the Direct Entry scheme allowed me to combine being able to serve with being in a job where I could use my degree in Computer Science.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is your current role in NCF?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>As a Software Developer, I develop tools and capabilities for the NCF. My role allows me to work on some very interesting and impactful areas with a set of skill, that can be used in very few places.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What do you like most about working in NCF?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The constant opportunities to learn and improve your skill sets. It is also very interesting to work within a partnership because I work alongside a mix of civilian and military colleagues. I am learning a great deal from my civilian colleagues, and it is refreshing to see how we approach different problems with a range of perspectives and skills. In my team there is more emphasis on being a subject matter expert rather than rank, which I like.<\/p>\r\n<p>What skills do you hope to develop when in NCF?<\/p>\r\n<p>My technical and leadership skills.<\/p>\r\n<p>Any tips for people looking to apply to the Cyber Direct Entry Scheme?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Although a background in Computer Science helps, you don&rsquo;t necessarily need it because you will be taught everything you need to know however, I would recommend building your understanding of Networks, Cyber Security Principles and programming&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"christopher-ministry-of-defence-cyber-direct-entry-scheme-raf-entrant\">Christopher, Ministry of Defence Cyber Direct Entry Scheme RAF Entrant&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>&nbsp;After completing a BSc in Computer Science at university, Christopher spent five years as a commercial software developer gaining experience in both frontend and backend systems before joining the RAF via Cyber Direct Entry.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Why did you decide to apply to Cyber Direct Entry?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I wanted to utilise my skillset for the national good and make it harder for adversaries to harm the UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What is your current role in NCF?&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I am currently a Software Developer in the National Cyber Force.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>What do you like most about working in NCF? &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>I wanted to work in NCF so I could push my technical abilities as far as they can go and receive first-class training. I enjoy gaining insight into the UK&rsquo;s true capabilities and all the work which goes on behind the scenes.<\/p>\r\n<p>What skills do you want to develop when in NCF?<\/p>\r\n<p>My aim is to supplement my existing programming abilities with subject matter expertise in specific Operating Systems, whilst also developing my project management skills.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Any tips for people looking to apply through the Cyber Direct Entry Scheme?<\/p>\r\n<p>Communication is just as important as technical ability; work on your public speaking and learn how to articulate complex topics. Also, stay humble.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/cyber-and-specialist-operations-command\">Cyber &amp; Specialist Operations Command<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 29 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Government and industry to take on investment bias and workplace culture to support more women in tech<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Government announces a major new push to back women in technology by helping tackle barriers facing female founders and workers while boosting growth across the UK economy\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\n\r\n\r\nBetter workplace culture, improved reporting routes to tackle harassment, and fairer investment practices are expec...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Government announces a major new push to back women in technology by helping tackle barriers facing female founders and workers while boosting growth across the UK economy<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae2238b976f73ef5cfb677c\/s300_Women_and_tech-GovUK.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Better workplace culture, improved reporting routes to tackle harassment, and fairer investment practices are expected to inform new voluntary standards announced as part of the Chancellor&rsquo;s Budget<\/li>\r\n<li>Government to launch a scale-up women&rsquo;s programme, with enhanced support to help women-led businesses scale and grow<\/li>\r\n<li>Creating a fairer sector and investment culture where women are empowered to start and scale businesses at the same rate as men could unlock &pound;310 billion for the UK economy2<\/li>\r\n<li>Early industry ambassadors including BT, Revolut, Sage, Balderton Capital and Octopus Ventures, will co-create the standards with the Women in Tech Taskforce<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>As announced at the Budget yesterday, a major new push to back women in technology will help tackle barriers facing female founders and workers while boosting growth across the UK economy.<\/p>\r\n<p>Government will work with industry through its Women in Tech Taskforce to develop two new voluntary standards on workplace culture and on investment practices, alongside launching a new scale-up women&rsquo;s programme to help more women start, grow and scale technology businesses.<\/p>\r\n<p>The UK is home to one of the world&rsquo;s leading tech sectors, but women continue to face barriers to entering, progressing and securing investment. Women make up just 22% of the IT workforce3, despite evidence showing that closing participation gaps could add up to &pound;4 billion a year to UK GDP.<\/p>\r\n<p>While enabling women to found and grow businesses at the same rate as men could unlock &pound;310 billion for the economy2.<\/p>\r\n<p>Government&rsquo;s recent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/calls-for-evidence\/building-a-future-tech-sector-that-works-for-everyone\">call for evidence<\/a> found that 74% of respondents believe a better workplace culture would support women&rsquo;s progression and leadership in tech1,2.<\/p>\r\n<p>To help break down some of these barriers and encourage more inclusive behaviour, the government is committing to a new &ldquo;Tech Forward Standard&rdquo;. Commitments are intended to improve workplace culture and could include measures such as developing trusted harassment reporting routes so workers feel safe to come forward.<\/p>\r\n<p>Women founders face additional challenges in raising investment. Only 2p of every &pound;1 invested in venture capital funding in the UK goes to women founded businesses5. A new &ldquo;Inclusive Investment Standard&rdquo; the taskforce are progressing, could include commitments around broadening deal sourcing channels, and tracking women-led businesses progress from pitch to funding decisions, so it&rsquo;s clear where founders drop out and where change is needed.<\/p>\r\n<p>The result: a fairer, more transparent route to funding, helping more great ideas get the financial backing they deserve.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside these voluntary standards, in 2027 government will launch a new scale-up women&rsquo;s programme. This will help women founders of high-potential, high-growth UK businesses to secure investment and scale.<\/p>\r\n<p>The programme will help address the barriers that lead to persistent funding gaps for women-founded companies, providing support that could include workshops, peer learning, networking and introductions to investors. The programme will be run jointly between DCMS and BIST.<\/p>\r\n<p>Digital Inclusion Minister and Women in Tech Taskforce co-chair Vicky Foxcroft said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Too many talented women are leaving tech or never getting the chance to build a career in it in the first place.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"That&rsquo;s not just unfair, it&rsquo;s a waste of talent our economy can&rsquo;t afford. These initiatives are about working with industry to create opportunities for all, so that tech becomes a place where women can thrive, from the classroom right through to the boardroom.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Chief Executive and co-founder of <a href=\"https:\/\/eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstemettes.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7CAlice.Fletcher%40dsit.gov.uk%7Cba3ca7d488544b09945108df25dfccb0%7Ccbac700502c143ebb497e6492d1b2dd8%7C0%7C0%7C639271315351463848%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=jFdtPltHc7oMpPgX%2FsszJVCsockNwsfRZPGSjvOFrCA%3D&amp;reserved=0\" rel=\"external\">Stemettes<\/a> and Women in Tech Envoy Anne-Marie Imafidon said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Too many women have told us about facing misconduct like harassment and discrimination in tech. That is unacceptable and a key driver of poor participation in the sector. This launch is about working with industry to ensure we have a future that works for everyone, by creating the cultural change women and their allies have long been calling for.&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"With 74% of respondents to our Call for Evidence advocating for better workplace culture, we now have a clear mandate to work with industry and make tech somewhere women stay, thrive and lead.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Both standards will now enter a period of co-creation with industry, investors and the Taskforce, ahead of their formal launch in the coming months. The Women in Tech Taskforce will reconvene in November to take forward this next phase of work, helping ensure the standards deliver meaningful change for women across the technology sector.<\/p>\r\n<p>These initiatives come alongside wider work to build more opportunities for women and girls in tech.<\/p>\r\n<p>TechFirst Girls Competition<\/p>\r\n<p>Government has launched registration for the first ever <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techfirstgirls.co.uk\/\" rel=\"external\">TechFirst Girls Competition<\/a>, giving girls across the UK the chance to build tech skills and confidence, and to see what a future career in technology could look like for them.<\/p>\r\n<p>Get Tech Certified<\/p>\r\n<p>Government has also kicked off digital upskilling across the public sector through its <a href=\"https:\/\/governmentdigitalanddatahub.campaign.gov.uk\/learn\/get-tech-certified\/\" rel=\"external\">Get Tech Certified<\/a> programme, which is open to all public servants, not just those in technical roles. This year sees the launch of a dedicated Women in Tech strand, bringing together events, mentoring and career stories to help more women in the public sector build confidence and progress their digital careers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>TechFirst Women&rsquo;s Programme<\/p>\r\n<p>Government will also support women at all career stages, from early-career professionals to career changers and returners, to move into paid jobs in artificial intelligence, cyber security and other high-growth technology sectors. Through the TechFirst Women&rsquo;s Programme, 300 women across the UK will receive mentoring, skills development and matching with live vacancies, with the aim of securing paid roles lasting at least six months by March 2027.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-digital-culture-media-and-sport\">Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-business-innovation-science-and-trade\">Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/vicky-foxcroft\">Vicky Foxcroft MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 29 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Government and Rolls-Royce agree \u00a32.5bn to build jet engines in the UK and create tens of thousands of jobs<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Government and Rolls-Royce have agreed a &amp;pound;2.5 billion programme which could see jet engines built in the UK for decades and create tens of thousands of jobs\r\n\r\n\r\nGovernment agreement with Rolls-Royce will keep UK at forefront of aerospace innovation and could see jet engines built in the UK fo...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Government and Rolls-Royce have agreed a &pound;2.5 billion programme which could see jet engines built in the UK for decades and create tens of thousands of jobs<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae2167439d29f3f9b9b3f6b\/s300_Untitled_design_1.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Government agreement with Rolls-Royce will keep UK at forefront of aerospace innovation and could see jet engines built in the UK for decades to come.<\/li>\r\n<li>Multi-decade co-operation includes joint 10-year &pound;2.5bn programme for next-generation jet engines for passenger and military planes.<\/li>\r\n<li>Agreement expected to support 3,300 jobs by end of 2029 with tens of thousands more in the decades ahead.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Tens of thousands of new jobs are expected to be created from a new government agreement with Rolls-Royce to help turbocharge Britain&rsquo;s reindustrialisation, including a &pound;2.5 billion programme for cutting-edge cleaner and more efficient jet engines, jointly funded over 10 years.<\/p>\r\n<p>Announced by the Chancellor as he delivers his first Budget today (28 October), the multi-decade cooperation will develop new jet engines for single-aisle aircraft &ndash; the planes taking Brits on their summer holidays in Europe &ndash; with only a handful of nations and companies able to build them.<\/p>\r\n<p>Rolls-Royce estimates that securing a UK engine on these planes could lead to billions more being invested in the UK in the coming decades, which could add &pound;120 billion to the economy over the lifetime of the programme.<\/p>\r\n<p>Identified by the Industrial Strategy as the UK aerospace sector&rsquo;s biggest opportunity over the next 50 years, the agreement will put Britain ahead in the race to power the planes carrying millions of passengers around the world for decades to come.<\/p>\r\n<p>The agreement could help support British industry to take advantage of huge market opportunities, delivering on the Government&rsquo;s drive to reindustrialisation so that all parts of the UK benefit.<\/p>\r\n<p>The investment is expected to support for 3,300 existing jobs over the next few years, with the potential for tens of thousands of new roles beyond that.<\/p>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Britain has always been an industrial powerhouse. But that strength isn&rsquo;t just part of our past, it should be a core part of our future too.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re driving forward reindustrialisation and this agreement shows what that looks like in practice.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"It gives businesses the certainty to invest, creates jobs people can build a future on, and keeps British industry where it belongs, at the forefront of innovation.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Reindustrialisation isn&rsquo;t just a soundbite &ndash; it&rsquo;s a cast iron commitment to deliver good jobs and growth for people all over the country. That&rsquo;s exactly what this agreement does.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"It makes sure Britain will win the race to power the next generation of passenger planes, keeping jet engine manufacturing in the UK and creating tens of thousands of jobs in the long term.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"It&rsquo;s also a real vote of confidence in the economic plan we&rsquo;re delivering &ndash; giving businesses the certainty they need to grow and invest here on our shores.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>New jobs are expected to cover a range of areas from engineering and research to manufacturing &ndash; creating roles which run from the design stage all the way through to the factory floor.<\/p>\r\n<p>The vast majority of these will also be created outside London and the South East &ndash; tapping into the numerous sites and supply chains Rolls-Royce maintains across the country.<\/p>\r\n<p>It represents a big step forward in the Prime Minister&rsquo;s plan to reindustrialise Britain, showing how the Industrial Strategy is creating the right conditions for companies to invest, create good jobs and build their future in the UK, while helping secure future military air capability.<\/p>\r\n<p>Tufan Erginbilgic, CEO, Rolls-Royce, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This is a landmark moment for the UK&rsquo;s aerospace industry. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lay the foundations for decades of sustainable economic growth across the UK, creating high-value jobs and transforming the country&rsquo;s advanced manufacturing supply chain.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Aerospace is a growing and globally attractive market and this programme with Government is vital to enable the UK to compete. Working together, we can also sustain the nation&rsquo;s capability to power military aircraft and secure its position as one of only two countries that can design, develop, make and service the jet engines that power the world&rsquo;s commercial airliners.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The technology, engineering skills and industrial capabilities developed through this agreement could be used in both passenger and military plane engines, boosting the UK&rsquo;s national security at a time of global uncertainty.<\/p>\r\n<p>It will develop technologies including advanced materials, electronic systems, advanced manufacturing and the use of robotics and AI. It also comes alongside a jobs and skills plan that will help build the workforce we need for the future.<\/p>\r\n<p>That means new opportunities for companies to start up, scale up, and grow, and new avenues of British expertise that can be exported all over the world.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>A key part of the agreement is a commitment to work closely with Rolls-Royce, the wider aerospace sector, regional and local expertise to ensure UK-based suppliers directly benefit from the decades of sustained investment being delivered.<\/p>\r\n<p>Later this year the Government will publish its plan for Britain and set out how, over 10 years, it will make this country work for people and businesses again. This means more control of the basics to make the country more functional, more power in the hands of people and places to set their own ambitions, and from there good growth in every postcode.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-business-innovation-science-and-trade\">Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/jonathan-reynolds\">The Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 29 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Budget 2026: Breathing space for today, hope for the future<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Chancellor has unveiled a Budget that gives families and businesses breathing space today, while delivering the big structural changes needed for the future\r\n\r\n\r\nChancellor John Healey delivers a Budget to give families and businesses breathing space from rising costs, with action on energy bill...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Chancellor has unveiled a Budget that gives families and businesses breathing space today, while delivering the big structural changes needed for the future<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae1fb639bca21f1c5036e8e\/s300_thumbnail_gov_press_release.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Chancellor John Healey delivers a Budget to give families and businesses breathing space from rising costs, with action on energy bills, fuel duty, wages and the everyday cost of living.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Investment to get Britain building and growing, backing homes, high streets and British businesses while strengthening energy and national security.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Fair choices maintain economic stability, with the Government cutting borrowing and meeting its fiscal rules with a buffer against uncertainty.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The Chancellor has unveiled a Budget that gives families and businesses breathing space today, while delivering the big structural changes needed for the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Against a backdrop of global uncertainty and pressure on household budgets, the Budget takes action on energy and motoring costs, backs wages and high streets, helps more people onto the housing ladder, and supports British businesses to invest and grow &ndash; while strengthening Britain&rsquo;s national security.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Built on fiscal discipline, the Budget will provide the bedrock for our economy to continue to grow and deliver the vision that the Prime Minster will set out in his 10-year plan.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"breathing-space\">Breathing Space&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Families and businesses will get breathing space from rising costs, with major action on energy, driving and everyday bills alongside support for wages, housing and high streets. Alongside immediate support, the Budget fundamentally sets a new pathway for the energy system to deliver cheaper, more secure energy in the long-term.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Households:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Lower energy bills: In 2027 the government is providing a &pound;100 Household Energy Payment for up to 20 million households in bands A to D in England, with funding for similar support provided to the rest of the UK, while the temporary VAT cut on electricity bills will be extended until 1 July 2027, taking around &pound;50 off the Ofgem annual price cap in April 2027. This will be paid for by increasing the Bank Corporation Tax Surcharge from 3% to 6% for 15 months, before ending on 31 March 2028.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Long-term energy reform: From 2027 the government will introduce a new comprehensive framework at the spending review that ensures government action drives costs down over the next ten years. Until that framework is in place, no further policy costs will be placed on bills unless they bring bills down or are essential to keep the lights on. We will take that approach in our next renewables auction, Allocation Round 8, to ensure that we only buy cheap clean power that is ready to connect to the grid. The tax on gas bills planned by the previous government to fund hydrogen will be scrapped and planned hydrogen projects will instead be publicly funded.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Standing charges: The government will also ask Ofgem to abolish gas standing charges and move them to unit rates, making bills fairer and giving households more control over what they pay. Households not seeing an automatic saving will still have better control over their bills without the worry of affording the standing charge, and the government will set out targeted mitigation in due course.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Making energy cheaper and more secure: In 2028-30, the government will reduce Britain&rsquo;s exposure to volatile international gas prices, ensuring new clean power delivers value for billpayers and delivers cheaper and faster grid connections. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Paternity: The government is extending parental pay to more than 160,000 additional parents, including self-employed dads and partners who have previously missed out.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Making everyday life easier: 1,000 Post Office parcel drop boxes will be rolled out and 600 branches upgraded by the end of the financial year, while the new Warm Homes loans scheme will help households spread the upfront cost of solar panels, batteries and heat pumps, which together could cut bills by up to &pound;550 a year.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Higher wages: On 1 April 2027, the National Living Wage will increase by 3.9% to &pound;13.21 per hour. This uplift represents an increase of &pound;910 to the gross annual earnings of a full-time worker on the National Living Wage.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Everyday costs: Tariffs will be removed from more than 100 products, helping lower import costs on family favourites including baked beans and chocolate, alongside tariff cuts on kerosene and fertiliser to support households and farmers facing higher costs.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Support for drivers&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>This Budget also supports drivers by extending the 5p cut to fuel duty for a further six months, and deferring the planned Retail Prices Index (RPI) increase, to 1 July 2027, to support households and businesses.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Saving money: Taken together, the government&rsquo;s decisions on fuel duty across this Parliament will save the average car driver &pound;230, the average large goods driver saves &pound;472 and the average heavy goods driver nearly &pound;4000 compared to plans under the previous government, and means petrol and diesel will be 15p per litre cheaper from April 2027.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Backing people who drive for work: To put more money back into the pockets of those who rely on their cars for work, we are also permanently increasing the generosity of tax free mileage rates to support around 2 million employees and 1 million self-employed people across the UK.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Cheaper EV charging: At the same time, more drivers than ever are going electric &ndash; but we know the rising cost of charging vehicles risks slamming the brakes on that progress. That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re cutting prices at local, lower-powered public chargers to reduce costs for electric vehicle drivers who rely on them &ndash; saving them &pound;150 per year on average.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Housing&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Helping people own a home: The Your First Home Scheme will help 70,000 people onto the property ladder and save first time buyers hundreds of pounds a month.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Building more affordable homes: The Prime Minister has been clear on his ambition to deliver the biggest boost to council housebuilding since the post-war period. This budget provides a further &pound;1.5 billion in funding for social and affordable housing, taking total capital investment over the next 10 years above &pound;40 billion. We are also exempting smaller housing developments on brownfield land from Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, making it cheaper and simpler to build.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Helping first-time buyers save: A new First Time Buyer ISA will provide a simpler route to saving for a deposit, while from today the Lifetime ISA withdrawal charge will be reduced to 20% so that first-time buyers purchasing a home above the existing &pound;450,000 property price cap will not be penalised.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Tackling rough sleeping: We&rsquo;re backing the ambition to end rough sleeping for good, with a further &pound;432 million over the next two years to help people off the streets.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Business&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Delivering the government&rsquo;s commitments on business rates: This year&rsquo;s Budget backs England&rsquo;s high streets with a package that means that all retail, hospitality and leisure properties in England will see their business rates either frozen in real terms, reduced, or cut to zero. On top of the extra 20% business rates cut for pubs and all but the largest live music venues, announced in July, this package will take around 70,000 more retail, hospitality and leisure businesses out of business rates by increasing the Small Business Rates Relief threshold. As a result, half of all retail, hospitality and leisure properties will pay no business rates. The Chancellor&nbsp;has&nbsp;also&nbsp;announced a two-year real-terms freeze in business rates bills for all retail, hospitality and leisure properties.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Fairly funded: The package will be paid for by tackling non-compliance on online marketplaces, increasing gambling tax on higher-risk machine games, and extending a 1p supplement for businesses that have seen reductions or smaller increases in their business rates bills.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Targeting support on thriving high streets: As part of efforts to clean up and strengthen our high streets, vape shops and adult gaming centres will also no longer benefit from certain business rates reliefs. This helps to ensure support is targeted towards the shops, pubs, caf&eacute;s and other businesses that help local communities thrive.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>As business rates are devolved in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Devolved governments will receive Barnett Consequentials which they can use to fund equivalent measures, should they choose to do so.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Addressing industrial energy prices: The government is delivering one of the most significant interventions in business energy costs in a generation. From April 2027, the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will support over 10,000 eligible businesses in electricity intensive Industrial Strategy sectors and the foundational sectors in their supply chains, cutting their electricity bills by up to 25% and bringing electricity costs closer to other economies in Europe.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"growth-in-every-postcode\">Growth in every postcode&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Economic growth is the route to higher wages, stronger public services and greater opportunity. The Budget backs Britain&rsquo;s industrial strengths, helps businesses start and scale, unlocks private investment and gives places greater control over their economic future.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Backing British aerospace: Aerospace is one of the UK&rsquo;s greatest manufacturing success stories, with a genuine competitive advantage across prime manufacturers and supply chains. A multi-decade cooperation agreement with Rolls-Royce, starting with a joint 10-year, &pound;2.5 billion programme, will develop next-generation gas turbine technology for civil and defence aerospace, supporting 3,300 jobs in the next few years with the potential to create tens of thousands of jobs and billions in further investment across the supply chain for decades to come. This is reindustrialisation in action, backing technology, engineering skills and the UK&rsquo;s security and success.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Life sciences investment: The government is also announcing three new public-private investments in Life Sciences, totalling over &pound;1 billion and backed by almost &pound;70 million in grant funding, delivering on the Modern Industrial Strategy&rsquo;s commitment to reinforcing the UK&rsquo;s position as a global Life Sciences superpower: Convatec will invest over &pound;500 million over the next decade in a new global R&amp;D hub in Manchester, Vertex Pharmaceuticals will invest over &pound;300 million in a new facility in Oxford, and Kindeva will invest &pound;200 million in Loughborough.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Backing British businesses to innovate and grow&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The government&rsquo;s ambition is to make the UK the best place in the world to start a business, scale it, and stay here for the long-term. The Budget supports wealth creation by cementing the UK&rsquo;s world leading tax offer for founders and their companies, with a step change in how procurement supports the UK innovation economy.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Backing entrepreneurs and scaling businesses: We are introducing a new Founders Relief, to encourage founders to scale their companies here in the UK, and when the time comes, reinvest in the next British success story. It will offer eligible founders of high-growth, innovative companies a reduced 10% rate of Capital Gains Tax on up to &pound;10 million of lifetime gains.&nbsp;We are also&nbsp;tripling the trading allowance from &pound;1,000 to &pound;3,000 to support people starting a business; improving venture capital schemes and simplifying access to R&amp;D tax reliefs to help growing firms attract investment and innovate; and we are expanding tax-advantaged employee share schemes to help ambitious businesses recruit and retain talent. &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Attracting talent: We are committing to reform the visa system to deliver the most pro-business migration system in Europe for highly skilled workers, expanding the High Potential Individual visa to graduates from the world&rsquo;s top 150 institutions, changing visa salary requirements to help employers across the UK hire the people they need, extending the Graduate visa to two years for eligible universities, and giving the highest-skilled workers longer to find a new job, all helping businesses attract the skills and talent they need to grow.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Removing barriers to growth: This Budget also confirms that the government will legislate to make sure that non-compete clauses will no longer be a barrier to hiring for our most promising startups and scaling firms. The government will also consult shortly to understand the wider use of restrictive practices. We will then set out a detailed government position on all these issues in early 2027 in advance of legislating.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Backing businesses with finance: It sits alongside action to make government a better customer, making procurement easier for innovative businesses to access, and ensure regulation keeps pace with innovation through new cross-economy powers to enable firms to test, refine and scale new tech faster, while boosting the British Business Bank&rsquo;s financial capacity, including additional equity capacity and a new venture-debt offer.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Backing Britain to lead on AI&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The Budget also delivers the government&rsquo;s most ambitious AI package yet, investing &pound;700 million to tackle the risks of AI while unlocking its potential to raise living standards, strengthen national security and support working people across the country.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>AI security: To ensure Britain is prepared for the challenges AI presents, the package includes an additional &pound;120 million for the AI Security Institute, &pound;40m for a world-first national capability to investigate and respond to agentic security incidents. This is alongside investment in institutions and infrastructure to strengthen resilience against cyber and biological threats, and further funding for the AI Economics Institute to assess the impact of AI on jobs, productivity and living standards.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Ensuring sovereign capability: The package also backs the UK to capture AI&rsquo;s benefits, with an additional &pound;140 million for the Sovereign AI Unit, helping promising UK AI companies scale and maintain a meaningful presence here, and &pound;30m to pilot local partnerships, starting with West Yorkshire Combined Authority, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, and York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, to develop locally-led approaches to AI adoption.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Progressing the infrastructure Britain needs: A new Data Centre Covenant will unlock the infrastructure Britain needs to lead on AI while ensuring communities share in the benefits. Strategic projects seeking enhanced government support will be expected to meet stringent tests on community investment, energy costs, supporting British industry and jobs and strengthening our national security.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Backing investment in Britain, with stronger public control&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Good growth starts with taking control of the essentials that people, businesses and places depend on. The government will provide greater strategic direction, certainty and accountability across areas including energy, transport, water and housing, using public investment to unlock private capital, strengthen Britain&rsquo;s strategic industries and create the conditions for businesses to invest and grow.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Investing in Britain&rsquo;s future: The National Wealth Fund and British Business Bank will receive an additional &pound;20.4 billion, strengthening the government&rsquo;s two main public finance institutions and their role in supporting reindustrialisation, regional growth and Britain&rsquo;s strategic industries.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Mobilising investment: The National Wealth Fund will receive an additional &pound;15.4 billion, including &pound;2 billion for the new Energy Wealth Fund, allowing it to continue investing and lending at its current rate over the coming years (to be drawn down over and beyond the forecast period), and use public capital to help mobilise private investment in businesses and major projects.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Backing businesses to grow: Additional capital for the British Business Bank will enable it to go further in supporting new investment and helping businesses to start, scale and stay in Britain, with a particular focus on improving access to finance for smaller firms.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Creating jobs across Britain: Together, the recapitalisation is expected to create and support 140,000 jobs across sectors including advanced manufacturing, AI, defence, technology and clean energy, backing Britain&rsquo;s industrial strengths and driving growth across the country.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Getting major infrastructure built: The government has also committed to fully delivering the findings of the Fingleton Nuclear Regulatory Review, the most significant reset of the UK&rsquo;s nuclear regulatory system in more than 20 years, and is considering how the ethos and findings of the Fingleton reforms extend to other infrastructure sectors. As a first step, Rachel Skinner CBE chairing a review of rail infrastructure costs that will report in six months. The government will also bring forward legislation at the earliest opportunity to reduce the risk that legal challenges leave essential projects in limbo.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Devolution&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>People who know their places best should have more power to shape their future. The Budget sets out a roadmap to fiscal devolution, delivering the biggest transfer of power and resources in a generation and giving local leaders greater control to drive growth in their communities.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Greater fiscal powers: All Mayors will receive income tax assignment from 2028, while legislation will give all Strategic Authorities the power to introduce an Overnight Visitor Levy.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>10 new devolution agreements: The government is in the final stages of agreeing Mayoral Strategic Authorities for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay; Hertfordshire; Lancashire; Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland; Stoke and Staffordshire; Surrey; Thames Valley (Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Swindon); and Wessex.&nbsp;There will also be and a single Foundation Strategic Authority for Cornwall, and a Strategic Authority for Kent and Medway. The&nbsp;Government will continue working with all remaining areas including places like Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, where there is broad agreement but not yet local consensus to agree a Strategic Authority as soon as possible, with the aim of achieving full devolution coverage by the end of 2028.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>This will mean that over 90% of England&rsquo;s population will have a devolution agreement in place, with the entirety of the North of England covered by&nbsp;mayoral&nbsp;devolution for the first time. The Government is determined to help local leaders deliver good growth immediately and today we are also confirming &pound;285 million in 2027-28, including &pound;120 million of incubator capital funding, for areas transitioning towards a devolution deal or Strategic Authority status.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Keeping more money locally: The government intends for local and regional government to retain 100% of business rates income before the end of the decade, with mayors receiving a share of business rates from 2027, replacing grants from central government and giving places greater control over the resources they raise. The government will seek views from local government on how best to achieve this and intends to publish a Call for Evidence later in the year.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"fair-taxes-and-control-of-spending\">Fair taxes and control of spending&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>At a time when households and businesses are under pressure, the Budget rejects broad-based tax rises, and is protecting most individuals and businesses from tax increases. It achieves this while ensuring that all policy at the Budget is fully funded over the forecast and raises the revenue to fund commitments on breathing space and energy in a fair, targeted and proportionate way.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The government will maintain a stable environment for investment, including its commitments under the Corporate Tax Roadmap with the lowest headline Corporation Tax rate in the G7.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Where the government is asking for more, it is doing so in a fair, targeted and proportionate way, closing loopholes and making sure similar activities are taxed consistently.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Temporary contribution from banks: The Bank Corporation Tax Surcharge will increase from 3% to 6% for 15 months, raising &pound;1.5 billion to help fund support for households and businesses, before ending on 31 March 2028.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Modernising company distributions framework: Rules governing company distributions will be modernised to prevent complex arrangements being used to extract profits at lower tax rates, while protecting genuine commercial transactions and family and families passing down their business.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Levelling the playing field online: From October 2027, online marketplaces will take responsibility for collecting VAT on qualifying sales by UK businesses using their platforms, tackling evasion that undercuts honest firms on the high street and online.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Fairer treatment of private hire operators: Responding to inconsistencies in tax treatment that have emerged as the private hire vehicle market has grown, larger operators will be required to account for VAT consistently on the full passenger fare, while smaller and local taxi and minicab firms are protected.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Savings and property income: From April 2027, tax rates on savings and property income will rise by a further two percentage points across all bands, this is a fair and progressive approach, and the vast majority of taxpayers will not be affected. 84% of taxpayers will see no increase in their tax bill and generous incentives to save are preserved, including the &pound;20,000 cash ISA limit for everyone. The government will also work with industry to explore creating a new ISA incentive for people investing in a stocks and shares ISA for the first time. The detailed design will be developed with industry.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Protecting pensioners: From April 2027, people above State Pension age with total income up to and including the value of the new State Pension will not pay Income Tax thanks to the Pension Tax Allowance. In 2027-28,&nbsp;Around 500,000 pensioners are set to benefit, with around 290,000 paying no tax at all and the remainder receiving a tapered allowance.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Reforming welfare&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is focused on delivering better outcomes for the public while ensuring taxpayers receive value for money, putting investment where it will make the greatest difference and reforming spending where savings can be made responsibly.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The government inherited a welfare system that has been letting too many people down while driving ever-higher costs. It will rewire the welfare system through structural reform, not crude cuts, providing support for those who need it, helping more people into work and protecting taxpayers&rsquo; money. The government will consider carefully the recommendations of the Rt Hon Alan Milburn&rsquo;s report on young people not in employment, education or training and Sir Stephen Timms&rsquo; review of Personal Independence Payments.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside this, the government is acting now to bring the welfare bill down by:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Increasing face-to-face assessments: Face-to-face assessments for health benefits, which were all but ended by the previous government, will be increased &ndash; and the government has more than doubled face to face assessment rates since July 2024.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Tackling fraud and error: New measures are expected to save an additional &pound;1.4 billion between 2027 and 2032, bringing total savings from fraud and error this forecast to&nbsp;&pound;20 billion.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Protecting taxpayers&rsquo; money: Entitlement to benefits will be removed from prisoners detained in hospital who have been convicted of the most serious violent and sexual offences.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"strengthening-britians-security\">Strengthening Britian&rsquo;s Security&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>The first duty of any Government is to defend our country. In a more dangerous and uncertain world, the Budget fully funds increased defence investment, sets the direction towards Britain&rsquo;s NATO commitments and mobilises new sources of private and international finance.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Fully funding defence: The Budget strengthens Britain&rsquo;s national security by fully funding the &pound;15 billion Defence Investment Plan, including &pound;4.7 billion that was previously unfunded. This will be delivered by reprioritising capital budgets across government. Defence spending this year is &pound;14 billion higher than in the final year of the previous government, with the Defence Investment Plan taking spending to 2.7% of GDP in 2027-28.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Meeting NATO commitments: Building on this, at the Spending Review next year, the government will also set out the details of how we will meet our NATO commitment of 3.5% of GDP on defence by 2035, with a target date for 3% in 2030.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Mobilising investment: Alongside looking across public spending, the government will mobilise private and international finance to support our NATO targets, with the National Wealth Fund and British Business Bank making a new commitment to deploy up to &pound;5 billion over the next 4 years into defence, dual use and other sectors that support our national security, sovereign capability and resilience.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Working with allies: Britain will begin treaty negotiations on the Multilateral Defence Mechanism to accelerate defence investment and joint procurement across NATO allies, alongside launching an Innovative Defence Finance Taskforce ahead of the Spending Review.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Standing with Ukraine: We are also boosting our support to Ukraine further, underlining the UK&rsquo;s position as a leading partner amidst illegal Russian attacks. We are providing over &pound;10 billion of additional economic and military support, which will include:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>Up to &pound;5.5 billion of World Bank guarantees and &pound;0.5 billion grant contribution to the World Bank International Development Association&rsquo;s crisis facility to mobilise &pound;1.5bn of support to Ukraine;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>&pound;0.5 billion in additional military support to defend Ukraine from attacks this winter;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p>&pound;3 billion increase in UK Export Finance (UKEF) capacity for Ukraine, prioritised for military support.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"underpinned-by-fiscal-discipline\">Underpinned by fiscal discipline&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p>Underpinning every measure in this Budget is a commitment to fiscal discipline. By meeting the fiscal rules and maintaining a buffer against uncertainty, the Government is providing the stability that families, businesses and investors need.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>In the face of higher borrowing costs caused by renewed global uncertainty, the Government is using some of the headroom built up precisely for moments like this.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The stability rule is met with &pound;15 billion of headroom in 2029-30, meaning day-to-day spending is fully funded and borrowing is reserved for investment. Headroom is &pound;9 billion lower than in March, more than accounted for by the conflict&rsquo;s impact on debt interest costs. Headroom rises again to &pound;22 billion in 2030-31, which will be the target year at the next Budget&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Borrowing, which fell last year, continues to fall over the forecast, while the investment rule is met with headroom of &pound;24 billion in 2029-30, and debt is lower at the end of the forecast than it is today. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The measures announced at this Budget are fully funded, including through the temporary increase in bank taxes to help pay for household energy support, while departments are reprioritising existing budgets to fund the necessary increase in defence spending.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Through fair choices today and investment in Britain&rsquo;s future, this Budget delivers breathing space now and fresh hope for the years ahead.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-treasury\">HM Treasury<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/john-healey\">The Rt Hon John Healey MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 29 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">UK Defence Footprint 2026 \u2013 Rearm the country, reindustrialise our communities<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Defence investment to back British businesses, build good, well-paid local jobs and regenerate towns and cities\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nUK Defence Footprint &amp;ndash; Rearm the country, reindustrialise our communities\r\nPDF, 5.39 MB, 59 pages\r\nDetails\r\nDefence is a national endeavour, but its benefits a...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Defence investment to back British businesses, build good, well-paid local jobs and regenerate towns and cities<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8e09f9223b6191dab3219\/MOD_UK_Defence_Footprint_2026.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8e09f9223b6191dab3219\/MOD_UK_Defence_Footprint_2026.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">UK Defence Footprint &ndash; Rearm the country, reindustrialise our communities<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 5.39 MB, 59 pages<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>Defence is a national endeavour, but its benefits are felt in every community across the United Kingdom. The strength of our armed forces has always depended on the strength of our industrial base.<\/p>\r\n<p>This publication sets out, region by region, how that partnership between defence and industry is delivering security and opportunity in equal measure.<\/p>\r\n<p>Defence is an engine for growth in every postcode, supporting high-quality jobs, skills, innovation and investment across the UK. It is central to the Prime Minister&rsquo;s drive to reindustrialise regions and rewire the state so that it works more effectively for people, communities and place.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-defence\">Ministry of Defence<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 28 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Quantum Technology Roadmap for Space<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Strategic Priorities for the UK Sector 2026-2040\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nQuantum Technology Roadmap for Space\r\nPDF, 17.7 MB, 52 pages\r\nQuantum Technology Roadmap for Space\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nThis roadmap focuses on where quantum technologies can make a specific contribution to UK space capability throug...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Strategic Priorities for the UK Sector 2026-2040<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adb4696d798ae11e9bc5c30\/UKSA_brochure_for_Quantum_0406.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adb4696d798ae11e9bc5c30\/UKSA_brochure_for_Quantum_0406.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Quantum Technology Roadmap for Space<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 17.7 MB, 52 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/quantum-technology-roadmap-for-space\/quantum-technology-roadmap-for-space\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Quantum Technology Roadmap for Space<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This roadmap focuses on where quantum technologies can make a specific contribution to UK space capability through the 2035&ndash;2040 horizon, from resilient timing and sensing to more secure communications. It also recognises Quantum computing as a longer-term opportunity, best pursued through close engagement with wider national programmes.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/uk-space-agency\">UK Space Agency<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 28 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Artificial Intelligence Roadmap for Space<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Strategic Priorities for the UK Sector 2026 - 2036\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nArtificial Intelligence Roadmap for Space\r\nPDF, 12.6 MB, 73 pages\r\nArtificial Intelligence Roadmap for Space\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nThe Artificial Intelligence Roadmap for Space (AIRS) sets out a ten-year strategic framework to guide...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Strategic Priorities for the UK Sector 2026 - 2036<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ac90833f1ba855cc196aa3b\/UKSA_AIRS_Roadmap_Booklet_17June2026_1.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ac90833f1ba855cc196aa3b\/UKSA_AIRS_Roadmap_Booklet_17June2026_1.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Artificial Intelligence Roadmap for Space<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 12.6 MB, 73 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/artificial-intelligence-roadmap-for-space\/artificial-intelligence-roadmap-for-space\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Artificial Intelligence Roadmap for Space<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Artificial Intelligence Roadmap for Space (AIRS) sets out a ten-year strategic framework to guide the development and adoption of artificial intelligence across the UK space sector.<\/p>\r\n<p>Commissioned by the UK Space Agency, the roadmap identifies priority AI technologies, mission-aligned use cases, ecosystem enablers, and investment pathways required to drive UK leadership in AI-enabled space systems by 2036.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/uk-space-agency\">UK Space Agency<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 28 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">More people protected as government acts to make more homes safe<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Housing Secretary Angela Rayner has announced new proposals to help more leaseholders at risk of high bills to fix serious building and fire safety defects\r\n\r\n\r\nSupport to be extended to more leaseholders including those in collectively owned and enfranchised buildings who currently risk facing bill...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Housing Secretary Angela Rayner has announced new proposals to help more leaseholders at risk of high bills to fix serious building and fire safety defects<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ae0d73f779378370fd80a79\/s300_flats_960x640_HQ_v2.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Support to be extended to more leaseholders including those in collectively owned and enfranchised buildings who currently risk facing bills for serious building and fire-safety defects<\/li>\r\n<li>A new scheme will make construction product manufacturers contribute towards the cost of putting unsafe buildings right<\/li>\r\n<li>Comes alongside wider reforms to give millions of leaseholders stronger rights, protections and control over their homes<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>More homeowners who have been facing significant bills to make their homes safe will be given better protection from those high costs, under new measures announced today (27 October 2026).<\/p>\r\n<p>Existing rules already protect many leaseholders from footing the bill for fixing historic building safety defects, but some people still fall through gaps in the system due to different forms of ownership not covered by the law, leaving them at risk of paying for problems they did not cause.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government will now go further to narrow these gaps and give more people financial support.<\/p>\r\n<p>Construction product manufacturers connected to historic unsafe cladding and insulation products will also be made to contribute more towards putting affected buildings right. For the first time, government will have powers it needs to recover contributions from manufacturers - and at scale.<\/p>\r\n<p>These new proposals were unveiled in Parliament during the second reading of the Remediation of Unsafe Cladding Bill &ndash; a drive to get unsafe buildings fixed faster and make sure those responsible for fixing unsafe buildings will face tougher consequences if they fail to act.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"building-safety-minister-baroness-blake-said\">Building Safety Minister Baroness Blake said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"We are going further to protect more homeowners from unfair costs and make construction product manufacturers contribute towards putting things right.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Alongside new powers to force those responsible to fix unsafe buildings, these measures will help give residents the safety and security they deserve.\"<\/p>\r\n<p><br \/>The new measures will intend to help:<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"leaseholders-who-buy-a-flat-as-their-only-home-but-miss-out-on-costs-protections-because-of-the-previous-owners-circumstances\">Leaseholders who buy a flat as their only home but miss out on costs protections because of the previous owners&rsquo; circumstances.<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Under current rules, whether someone is protected from some building safety bills can depend on the circumstances of the person who owned the flat on 14 February 2022. This means someone can buy a flat later as their only or main home and still miss out, because a previous owner was ineligible. The government is exploring how to narrow this gap, to help more leaseholders feel confident in the safety of their home.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 id=\"leaseholders-in-collectively-owned-and-enfranchised-buildings-who-can-face-some-of-the-biggest-bills-for-fixing-fire-safety-problems\">Leaseholders in collectively owned and enfranchised buildings who can face some of the biggest bills for fixing fire-safety problems.<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Because there is no separate freeholder, residents are not covered by the leaseholder protections of the Building Safety Act, putting them at risk of paying a lot. New government funding will help towards remediation of internal high risk and high-cost fire-safety defects.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 id=\"leaseholders-with-multiple-properties-that-have-non-cladding-building-safety-problems-they-did-not-cause-and-are-not-currently-protected-under-the-building-safety-act\">Leaseholders with multiple properties that have non-cladding building safety problems they did not cause and are not currently protected under the Building Safety Act.<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>At the moment, protections generally cover people who owned no more than three properties on 14 February 2022. The government plans to raise this limit to six, so more people who owned four to six properties and did not qualify on this date will be protected from having these costs passed on to them. This will support individuals at risk of high bills through no fault of their own and in many cases need to make their properties safe for the people that live in them.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The Bill will speed up action by placing a legal duty on those responsible to fix unsafe buildings, with those failing to act facing criminal penalties and fines of up to &pound;500,000. It will also allow authorities to step in and get work done where those responsible consistently refuse to do so.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/baroness-blake-of-leeds\">Baroness Blake of Leeds CBE<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 28 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park development consent decision announced<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park DCO application has today been granted development consent by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero\r\nThe application is for a Solar photovoltaic array generating station, battery energy storage system and grid connection infrastructure, with...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park DCO application has today been granted development consent by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p>The application is for a Solar photovoltaic array generating station, battery energy storage system and grid connection infrastructure, with a maximum generation capacity of 800MW.<\/p>\r\n<p>The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by Elements Green Trent Limited on 27 June 2025 and accepted for examination on 22 July 2025.<\/p>\r\n<p>Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 28 July 2026.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>This is the 117th energy application out of 185 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in this six-month examination.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk\/projects\/EN010162\" rel=\"external\">project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website.<\/a>\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>This decision was made by Baroness Curran on behalf of the Energy Secretary&rsquo;s legal authority.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/planning-inspectorate\">Planning Inspectorate<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 28 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Frodsham Solar development consent decision announced<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Frodsham Solar DCO application has today been granted development consent by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero\r\nThe application is for a Solar photovoltaic array with an electrical generating capacity of over 50MW comprising solar PV modules and related mounting structures, inverte...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Frodsham Solar DCO application has today been granted development consent by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p>The application is for a Solar photovoltaic array with an electrical generating capacity of over 50MW comprising solar PV modules and related mounting structures, inverters, transformers, switch gear and control equipment, a substation, and underground on and off-site cabling, as well as associated energy storage equipment.<\/p>\r\n<p>The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by Frodsham Solar Ltd on 30 May 2025 and accepted for examination on 27 June 2025.<\/p>\r\n<p>Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 29 July 2026.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>This is the 116th energy application out of 184 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in this six-month examination.\u202f\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State.\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk\/projects\/EN010153\" rel=\"external\">project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website.<\/a>\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>This decision was made by Baroness Curran on behalf of the Energy Secretary&rsquo;s legal authority.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/planning-inspectorate\">Planning Inspectorate<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 28 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Local authority registered provider social housing stock and rents in England 2025 to 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Data on stock owned and managed by local authority registered providers in England on 31 March 2026\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nLocal authority registered provider social housing stock in England - Summary (key facts)\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nLocal authority registered provider social housing in Eng...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Data on stock owned and managed by local authority registered providers in England on 31 March 2026<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/assets\/frontend\/accredited-official-statistics-en-b3d3577a769b80457deb908876a896f336331eac8da8f82451903dbaf907cef3.png\" alt=\"Accredited official statistics\" \/>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-in-england-summary-key-facts\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-in-england-summary-key-facts\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider social housing stock in England - Summary (key facts)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5e25467af5c09d0479789\/2026_LARP_Briefing_Note_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5e25467af5c09d0479789\/2026_LARP_Briefing_Note_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider social housing in England - stock and rents 2025-26<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 1.2 MB, 33 pages&nbsp; <a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5e27e67af5c09d047978b\/LARP_TOOL_2026_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5e27e67af5c09d047978b\/LARP_TOOL_2026_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider look-up tool<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 320 KB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5e2a0a89985bb97026859\/LARP_2026_Additional_Tables_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider additional tables<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 180 KB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ada2a27c818345ad8aca354\/LARP_Data_Release_2026_Full_Data_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider data release<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 441 KB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9d9079223b6191dab32b7\/LARP_Data_Release_2026_Full_Data_FINAL_V1.0__1_.zip\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider full data release<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">ZIP, 118 KB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5e303e5db84746b4797bc\/2026_LADR_Guidance_and_templates.zip\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">2026 templates and guidance<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">ZIP, 996 KB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/local-authority-registered-provider-data-quality-and-methodology-note\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider data quality and methodology note<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9d7189223b6191dab32b5\/2026_LARP_Data_quality_and_methodology_note_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9d7189223b6191dab32b5\/2026_LARP_Data_quality_and_methodology_note_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider data quality and methodology note (PDF)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 535 KB, 16 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/technical-notes-and-definitions\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Technical notes and definitions<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9d7b89223b6191dab32b6\/2026_LARP_Technical_notes_and_definitions_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9d7b89223b6191dab32b6\/2026_LARP_Technical_notes_and_definitions_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Technical notes and definitions (PDF)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 432 KB, 26 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/local-authority-registered-provider-pre-release-access-list\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Local authority registered provider pre-release access list<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This statistical release presents the Accredited Official Statistics on the stock owned by local authority registered providers (LARPs) in England on 31 March 2026. Based on data from the Regulator of Social Housing&rsquo;s Local Authority Data Return (LADR) it provides details of\u202f LARP\u202fowned stock and details rents reported for low cost rental accommodation (social and affordable rents).&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The release comprises a briefing note, a dynamic look-up tool (Excel based) allowing users to view details of stock in individual local authority areas and regions, additional data tables, raw data from the\u202fLADR\u202fand technical documentation.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The statistics derived from the\u202fLADR\u202fdata and published as local authority registered provider social housing stock and rents in England are considered by the United Kingdom Statistics Authority&rsquo;s regulatory arm &ndash; the Office for Statistics Regulation &ndash; to have met the highest standards of trustworthiness, quality and public value, and are considered an Accredited Official Statistic. For more information see the data quality and methodology note.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The responsible statistician for this statistical release was Amanda Hall. The lead official was Will Perry.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>These statistics are based on data from the\u202fLADR. This return, which was collected by the RSH\u202ffor the first time in 2020, collects data on stock size, types, location and rents as at 31 March. All registered local authority providers of social housing in England are required to complete the LADR, providing the regulator with data on stock and rent levels in order that it may regulate social housing rents.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Prior to 2020\u202fthe Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG),\u202fpublished similar statistics on stock and rents for Local Authorities based on data collected through their Local Authority Housing Statistic. The differences in collection methodology between the\u202fLADR\u202fand\u202fLAHS\u202fand the statistical methodology employed between\u202fMHCLG\u202fand\u202fRSH\u202fstatistical releases are explored in detail in the technical notes.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Statistical queries on this publication should be directed to the Referrals and Regulatory Enquiries team on 0300 124 5235 or mail\u202f<a href=\"mailto:enquiries@rsh.gov.uk\">enquiries@rsh.gov.uk<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Users are encouraged to provide comments and feedback on how these statistics are used and how they meet their needs either through our feedback rating icons on all published documents or through direct email contact (please send these entitled &ldquo;LARP\u202fstatistics feedback&rdquo; to\u202f<a href=\"mailto:enquiries@rsh.gov.uk\">enquiries@rsh.gov.uk<\/a>). Previous releases of these statistics are available on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/local-authority-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-in-england\">Local Authority Data Return statistical releases collections page<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>An accessible HTML summary of the key findings from the report has been included on this page. If you require any further information, please contact\u202f<a href=\"mailto:enquiries@rsh.gov.uk\">enquiries@rsh.gov.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/regulator-of-social-housing\">Regulator of Social Housing<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Private registered provider social housing stock and rents in England 2025 to 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Data on stock owned and managed by private registered providers in England in 2025-26\r\n\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nPrivate registered providers stock and rents in England - Summary (key facts)\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nPrivate registered provider social housing stock in England rents profile\r\nPDF, 839 KB, 2...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Data on stock owned and managed by private registered providers in England in 2025-26<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/assets\/frontend\/accredited-official-statistics-en-b3d3577a769b80457deb908876a896f336331eac8da8f82451903dbaf907cef3.png\" alt=\"Accredited official statistics\" \/><\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/private-registered-providers-stock-and-rents-in-england-summary-key-facts\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/private-registered-providers-stock-and-rents-in-england-summary-key-facts\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers stock and rents in England - Summary (key facts)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9db37d798ae11e9bc5b9c\/2026_PRP_Sector_Briefing_Note_FINAL_v1.0__1_.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9db37d798ae11e9bc5b9c\/2026_PRP_Sector_Briefing_Note_FINAL_v1.0__1_.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered provider social housing stock in England rents profile<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 839 KB, 21 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f6d8dfa45fcb6753cbca\/2026_PRP_Stock_Briefing_Note_FINAL_v1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered provider social housing stock in England &ndash; stock profile<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 1 MB, 36 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f75a0f7b53973e0268d2\/2026_PRP_Sector_Briefing_Note_FINAL_v1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered provider social housing stock in England &ndash; sector characteristics and stock movement<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 839 KB, 21 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f79c0f7b53973e0268d4\/PRP_TOOL_2026_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers look-up tool<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 2.65 MB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f7c40f7b53973e0268d5\/GROUP_PRP_TOOL_2026_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers group look-up tool<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 2.41 MB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f7ebe5db84746b4797f5\/GEO_PRP_TOOL_2026_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers geographic look-up tool<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 2.42 MB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f80a0f7b53973e0268d8\/PRP_LA_TREND_TOOL_2017-26_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers trend look-up tool<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 1.04 MB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f825e5db84746b4797f8\/PRP_2026_Additional_Tables_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers additional tables<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 471 KB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f86249ba86d6c953cbaf\/PRP_Data_Release_2026_Full_Data_FINAL_V1.0.xlsx\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers data release<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">MS Excel Spreadsheet, 9.46 MB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f8960f7b53973e0268d9\/PRP_Data_Release_2026_Full_Data_FINAL_V1.0.zip\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered providers data release<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">ZIP, 10.4 MB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad5f8b8e5db84746b4797f9\/2026_SDR_Guidance_and_templates.zip\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">2026 templates and guidance<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">ZIP, 3.75 MB<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/data-quality-and-methodology\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Data quality and methodology<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9d98db62d80a107bc5b99\/2026_PRP_Data_quality_and_methodology_note_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad9d98db62d80a107bc5b99\/2026_PRP_Data_quality_and_methodology_note_FINAL_V1.0.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Data quality and methodology<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 896 KB, 21 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/technical-notes-and-definitions\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Technical notes and definitions<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ada28bd9ea4857e15ab32f9\/2026_PRP_Technical_notes_and_definitions_FINAL_V1.0__1_.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ada28bd9ea4857e15ab32f9\/2026_PRP_Technical_notes_and_definitions_FINAL_V1.0__1_.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Technical notes and definitions (PDF)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 492 KB, 36 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/statistical-data-return-non-submitter-list-2026\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Statistical Data Return non-submitter list (2026)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-pre-release-access-list-2026\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-2025-to-2026\/private-registered-provider-social-housing-stock-and-rents-in-england-pre-release-access-list-2026\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Private registered provider social housing stock and rents in England: Pre-release access list (2026)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This statistical release presents the Accredited Official Statistics on the stock owned and managed by private registered providers in England in 2025\/26. Based on data from the Regulator of Social Housing&rsquo;s Statistical Data Return (SDR), it provides details of\u202fprivate registered providers&rsquo;\u202f(PRPs) owned and managed stock, and&nbsp; rents reported for low cost rental accommodation&nbsp; (social and Affordable Rents) and provides an overview of the\u202fPRP\u202fsector including details of stock movement and vacancies.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The release comprises of three briefing notes (stock, rents and sector characteristics), four dynamic look-up tools (Excel based) allowing users to view the underlying data at a\u202fPRP\u202fand Group\u202fPRP\u202flevel, a range of geographies and also view five-year trend information at a range of geographies. Additional data tables, raw data from the\u202fSDR\u202fand technical documentation is also provided.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The statistics derived from the\u202fSDR\u202fdata and published as private registered provider social housing stock in England are considered by the United Kingdom Statistics Authority&rsquo;s regulatory arm &ndash; the Office for Statistics Regulation &ndash; to have met the highest standards of trustworthiness, quality and public value, and are considered an Accredited Official Statistic. For more information see the data quality and methodology note.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The responsible statistician for this statistical release was Amanda Hall. The lead official was Will Perry.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>These statistics are based on data from the\u202fSDR. This return collects data on stock size, types, location and rents at 31 March each year, and data on sales and acquisitions made between 1 April and 31 March. All private registered providers of social housing in England are required to complete the\u202fSDR, with those providers who own fewer than 1,000 units completing a shorter, less detailed return.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Statistical queries on this publication should be directed to the Referrals and Regulatory Enquiries team on 0300 124 5235 or email\u202f <a href=\"mailto:enquiries@rsh.gov.uk\">enquiries@rsh.gov.uk<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Users are encouraged to provide comments and feedback on how these statistics are used and how they meet their needs either through our feedback rating icons on all published documents or through direct email contact (please send these entitled &ldquo;PRP\u202fstatistics feedback&rdquo; to \u202f<a href=\"mailto:enquiries@rsh.gov.uk\">enquiries@rsh.gov.uk<\/a>).&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Previous releases of these statistics are available on the\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/statistical-data-return-statistical-releases\">Statistical Data Return statistical releases collections page<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>An accessible HTML summary of the key findings from the report has been included on this page. If you require any further information, please contact\u202f <a href=\"mailto:enquiries@rsh.gov.uk\">enquiries@rsh.gov.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/regulator-of-social-housing\">Regulator of Social Housing<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Air pollution in the UK 2025<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The UK&amp;rsquo;s annual compliance assessment for 2025 against the Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010)\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nAir quality compliance results summary 2025\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nMethods for compliance assessment against the Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010)\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nNitrogen oxides (NOx...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The UK&rsquo;s annual compliance assessment for 2025 against the Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010)<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/air-quality-compliance-results-summary-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/air-quality-compliance-results-summary-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Air quality compliance results summary 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/methods-for-compliance-assessment-against-the-air-quality-standards-regulations-2010\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/methods-for-compliance-assessment-against-the-air-quality-standards-regulations-2010\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Methods for compliance assessment against the Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/nitrogen-oxides-nox-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/nitrogen-oxides-nox-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Nitrogen oxides (NOx) compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/ozone-o3-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/ozone-o3-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Ozone (O3) compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/particulate-matter-as-pm10-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/particulate-matter-as-pm10-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Particulate matter as PM10 compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/particulate-matter-as-pm25-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/particulate-matter-as-pm25-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Particulate matter as PM2.5 compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/sulphur-dioxide-so2-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/sulphur-dioxide-so2-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Sulphur dioxide (SO2) compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/carbon-monoxide-co-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/carbon-monoxide-co-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Carbon monoxide (CO) compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/benzene-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/benzene-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Benzene compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/lead-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/lead-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Lead compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/arsenic-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/arsenic-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Arsenic compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/cadmium-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/cadmium-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Cadmium compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/nickel-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/nickel-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Nickel compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/benzoapyrene-bap-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-pollution-in-the-uk-2025\/benzoapyrene-bap-compliance-assessment-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) compliance assessment 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>Clean air is vital for people&rsquo;s health and wellbeing, supporting a thriving natural environment, and creating the conditions for prosperity and long-term economic growth in communities across the UK.<\/p>\r\n<p>Improving air quality is a priority for the UK, it is therefore important to assess levels of air pollution.<\/p>\r\n<p>Air Pollution in the UK 2025 presents the results of the UK&rsquo;s annual compliance assessment against the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislation.gov.uk\/uksi\/2010\/1001\/contents\" rel=\"external\">Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010)<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>It is reported on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the devolved governments&nbsp;of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.<\/p>\r\n<p>This assessment is supported by technical reports that demonstrate the compliance of the UK&rsquo;s air quality monitoring network design, the UK&rsquo;s monitoring networks, and the modelled evidence used to support compliance assessment decisions.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"compliance-results-and-data-tables\">Compliance results and data tables<\/h2>\r\n<p>The datasets associated with the compliance assessment are published in accessible formats on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-quality-compliance-assessment-2025-results-and-data-tables\">air quality compliance assessment 2025: results and data tables<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>Mapping data from the modelling is also available on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/air-quality-compliance-assessment-2025-modelled-data-and-reports\">air quality compliance assessment 2025: modelled data and reports<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"additional-reports-from-devolved-governments\">Additional reports from devolved governments<\/h2>\r\n<p>Separate to this UK compliance assessment, the devolved governments each produce their own short annual report, providing more specific information on air quality in their parts of the UK. See:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.scotland.gov.uk\/Topics\/Environment\/waste-and-pollution\/Pollution-1\/16215\" rel=\"external\">The Scottish Government: air quality<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.wales\/air-pollution\" rel=\"external\">The Welsh Government: air pollution<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.airqualityni.co.uk\/\" rel=\"external\">Northern Ireland Air<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"legislation\">Legislation<\/h2>\r\n<p>In the UK, concentrations of a range of pollutants in ambient air are regulated by the Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010) as follows:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010) (UK Government, 2010) and in England their December 2016 amendment (UK Government, 2016)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Air Quality Standards (Scotland) Regulations (2010) in Scotland (Scottish Government, 2010), and their December 2016 amendment (Scottish Government, 2016)&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Air Quality Standards (Wales) Regulations (2010) in Wales (Welsh Government, 2010)&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Air Quality Standards Regulations (Northern Ireland) (2010) (Department of Environment Northern Ireland, 2010) and their January 2017 amendment (DAERA, 2017)<\/li>\r\n<li>Air Quality Standards Regulations (Gibraltar) and their December 2016 amendment (HM Government of Gibraltar, 2016)&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>These Regulations have their origins in the European Union legislation:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Directive 2008\/50\/EC of 21 May 2008, on Ambient Air Quality and Cleaner Air for Europe (European Parliament and Council of the European Union, 2008)&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Directive 2004\/107\/EC of 15 December 2004 (European Parliament and Council of the European, 2004)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010) set &lsquo;limit values&rsquo;, &lsquo;target values&rsquo;, &lsquo;long-term objectives&rsquo; and &lsquo;critical levels&rsquo; for ambient concentrations of air pollutants.<\/p>\r\n<p>More stringent targets have been set in England for PM2.5 since the Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010). Progress towards additional <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/air-quality-statistics\/pm25-targets-pert-and-amct\">PM2.5 targets in England<\/a>, is published in a separate Accredited Official Statistics publication.<\/p>\r\n<p>This assessment is also separate to any air quality assessments made under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/local-air-quality-management\">local air quality management<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"contact\">Contact<\/h2>\r\n<p>Email&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:AQIE.Correspondence@defra.gov.uk\">AQIE.Correspondence@defra.gov.uk<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs\">Department for Environment, Food &amp; Rural Affairs<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Minister launches new campus for National School of Government<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">New campus for the National School of Government and Public Services opened at York\r\n\r\n\r\nThe National School of Government will roll out a range of training programmes from day one, including AI training, for all civil servants.\r\nWith its first dedicated residential campus outside York, the national...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">New campus for the National School of Government and Public Services opened at York<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37da9ded915d5a5f965f9c\/s300_cabinet-office.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The National School of Government will roll out a range of training programmes from day one, including AI training, for all civil servants.<\/li>\r\n<li>With its first dedicated residential campus outside York, the national school has been created to ensure that the civil service has the knowledge and skills it needs to deliver the government&rsquo;s priorities.<\/li>\r\n<li>We are building a world-class civil service, ensuring staff have the skills to drive government priorities and deliver for people across the UK.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Cabinet Office Minister Mark Ferguson has today opened the new National School of Government and Public Services, which will provide training for civil servants and public sector leaders.<\/p>\r\n<p>Regional hubs will be developed across the country, with the first opened in York this week, alongside digital access routes to give civil servants access to modern learning facilities close to where they live and work.<\/p>\r\n<p>It will provide civil servants and public sector leaders with the world-class learning and development they need to meet the challenges of the future.<\/p>\r\n<p>The school will build a curriculum around the skills all servants need, including training on devolution, national security, leadership and innovation.&nbsp; Training will also be offered in AI, covering the full range of skills needed now and in the future, from implementing practical solutions at the frontline to cut clerical workloads to cloud engineering courses to develop and deploy the latest technology across government, the School will equip Civil Servants with the tools to build a world-class Civil Service.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The training will support Civil Servants to go further in deploying AI to build a more productive public sector, building on recent successes including an A&amp;E demand forecasting tool is now in use across 50 NHS organisations, enabling hospitals to predict peak periods in emergency departments and plan staffing more effectively, or rolling out AI tutoring tools in schools with the target to half the attainment gap for disadvantaged students.<\/p>\r\n<p>Cabinet Office Minister Mark Ferguson said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"The opening of the new school is a unique opportunity to upskill civil servants in the areas that matter most - with AI being among the top priorities<\/p>\r\n<p>\"From day one, the National School offers learning built around Universal Skills that every civil servant needs - from digital skills and AI, to leadership and management.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This launch is part of a drive to boost public sector productivity and accelerate the pace of progress towards delivering the digitally-enabled public services to be expected from a modern state.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The creation of the school is a powerful statement that the Civil Service values its people, invests in their growth, and is serious about building the capability to meet the challenges of the future in the places where our people live and work.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Bringing training in-house will also reduce spending on external training over time as the school is fully established.<\/p>\r\n<p>This builds on plans underway to halve government spending on external consultants and reduce departmental administration costs by 16% over the next five years, delivering savings of over &pound;2 billion a year for the taxpayer by 2030.<\/p>\r\n<p>The National School of Government has also partnered with the annual Civil Service &lsquo;One Big Thing&rsquo; learning initiative, this year the theme is &lsquo;AI in Action&rsquo;.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/cabinet-office\">Cabinet Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/mark-ferguson\">Mark Ferguson MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Fire and rescue national framework: 2026 progress report<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Report by the Secretary of State on fire and rescue authorities&amp;rsquo; compliance with the fire and rescue national framework for England\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nReport by the Secretary of State on fire and rescue authorities&amp;rsquo; compliance with the fire and rescue national fra...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Report by the Secretary of State on fire and rescue authorities&rsquo; compliance with the fire and rescue national framework for England<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/fire-and-rescue-national-framework-2026-progress-report\/report-by-the-secretary-of-state-on-fire-and-rescue-authorities-compliance-with-the-fire-and-rescue-national-framework-for-england\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/fire-and-rescue-national-framework-2026-progress-report\/report-by-the-secretary-of-state-on-fire-and-rescue-authorities-compliance-with-the-fire-and-rescue-national-framework-for-england\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Report by the Secretary of State on fire and rescue authorities&rsquo; compliance with the fire and rescue national framework for England<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-916594-18-0<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adb72fac818345ad8aca3bb\/Fire_and_Rescue_Nat_Fmk_Compliance_Report_2021-23_to_2024-25.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adb72fac818345ad8aca3bb\/Fire_and_Rescue_Nat_Fmk_Compliance_Report_2021-23_to_2024-25.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Report by the Secretary of State on fire and rescue authorities&rsquo; compliance with the fire and rescue national framework for England<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-916594-18-0<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 188 KB, 9 pages<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 requires the Secretary of State to report every 2 years on fire and rescue authorities&rsquo; compliance with the fire and rescue national framework for England.<\/p>\r\n<p>The 2026 progress report outlines the extent to which fire and rescue authorities are complying with the framework.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026: equality impact assessment<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The equality impact assessment considers the impacts of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England and Wales\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nTerminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026: equality impact assessment - HTML version\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nTerminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The equality impact assessment considers the impacts of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England and Wales<\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment-html-version\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment-html-version\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026: equality impact assessment - HTML version<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment-summary\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-equality-impact-assessment-summary\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026: equality impact assessment - summary<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The equality impact assessment (EQIA) considers impacts in relation to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4157\" rel=\"external\">Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026<\/a>, as introduced to the House of Commons.<\/p>\r\n<p>See the Parliament website for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4157\/publications\" rel=\"external\">all documents relating to the bill<\/a>, including the PDF version of the full EQIA<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-justice\">Ministry of Justice<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026: impact assessmen<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The impact assessment considers the potential impacts of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England and Wales\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nTerminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026: impact assessment\r\nPDF, 1.53 MB, 160 pages\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDetails\r\nThe impact assessment (IA) consi...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The impact assessment considers the potential impacts of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England and Wales<\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a906ee401bbff0bf8f97b0c\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-impact-assessment.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a906ee401bbff0bf8f97b0c\/terminally-ill-adults-end-of-life-bill-2026-impact-assessment.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026: impact assessment<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 1.53 MB, 160 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The impact assessment (IA) considers potential impacts of the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4157\" rel=\"external\">Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2026<\/a>, as introduced to the House of Commons.<\/p>\r\n<p>See the Parliament website for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4157\/publications\" rel=\"external\">all documents relating to the bill<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-justice\">Ministry of Justice<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The draft HENPS provides the basis for decision making on any development consent application for a new Northwest Runway at Heathrow Airport\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nProposed draft revision to the Airports National Policy Statement &amp;ndash; to be known as the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statemen...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The draft HENPS provides the basis for decision making on any development consent application for a new Northwest Runway at Heathrow Airport<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a3923ed0bea238415c9a3a9\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a3923ed0bea238415c9a3a9\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Proposed draft revision to the Airports National Policy Statement &ndash; to be known as the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (web version)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 2.74 MB, 138 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a3303846422bec01b11772e\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps-annex-a.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Proposed draft revision to the Airports National Policy Statement &ndash; to be known as the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement: Annex A indicative scheme boundary map<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 9.8 MB, 1 page<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a33041e00ff27f06e3ef9df\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps-annex-b.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Proposed draft revision to the Airports National Policy Statement &ndash; to be known as the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement: Annex B indicative scheme masterplan<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 18.5 MB, 1 page<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a39242500ff27f06e3efbb9\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps-large-print-version.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Proposed draft revision to the Airports National Policy Statement &ndash; to be known as the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (large print version)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 2.1 MB, 270 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a392463c6e94f095f3efbb9\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps-print-version.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a392463c6e94f095f3efbb9\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps-print-version.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Proposed draft revision to the Airports National Policy Statement &ndash; to be known as the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (print version)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Unnumbered act paper<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 3.36 MB, 136 pages<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\"><a class=\"govuk-link govuk-link--no-visited-state\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/how-to-buy-printed-copies-of-official-documents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Order a copy<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a3302ee25c5199bda117745\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps-print-cover.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a3302ee25c5199bda117745\/proposed-draft-revision-to-the-anps-to-be-known-as-the-henps-print-cover.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Proposed draft revision to the Airports National Policy Statement &ndash; to be known as the Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (print cover)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 594 KB, 1 page<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<h2 id=\"heathrow-airport-limited-consultation\"><br \/>Heathrow Airport Limited consultation<\/h2>\r\n<p>On 27 October 2026, Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL) launched a consultation on its proposed development consent order application. The timing of this consultation is a decision for HAL.<\/p>\r\n<p>HAL&rsquo;s consultation is promoter-led and separate from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/draft-heathrow-expansion-national-policy-statement-proposed-amendments\">government&rsquo;s consultation on the draft HENPS<\/a>. It does not pre-empt any government decisions on Heathrow expansion.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government will consider responses to the draft HENPS consultation alongside the Transport Select Committee&rsquo;s recommendations before setting out its response and next steps. Any promoter will need to demonstrate how its scheme complies with any designated final HENPS.<\/p>\r\n<p>Since the designation of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) in 2018, significant global, policy and legislative changes have occurred. Changes to the National Policy Statement (NPS) process have also been introduced through the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025, requiring NPSs to be reviewed and updated at least every 5 years.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government is reviewing the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/airports-national-policy-statement\">2018 ANPS<\/a> to reflect these changes and ensure it aligns with the government&rsquo;s four tests for Heathrow expansion on:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>air quality<\/li>\r\n<li>climate change<\/li>\r\n<li>economic growth across the country<\/li>\r\n<li>noise<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>This review was <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/speeches\/realising-the-benefits-of-expansion-at-heathrow-airport\">launched in a ministerial statement on 22 October 2025<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-transport\">Department for Transport<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Government unleashes \u00a31.2 billion crackdown as part of anti-fraud drive<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Benefits cheats have been put on notice with tough new anti-fraud measures used for the first time as part of a drive to save billions of pounds for the taxpayer\r\n\r\n\r\nFirst use of new anti-fraud powers to help identify claimants with undeclared savings or extended time spent overseas, saving taxpaye...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Benefits cheats have been put on notice with tough new anti-fraud measures used for the first time as part of a drive to save billions of pounds for the taxpayer<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adf5b9e2263175ac2aca44e\/s300_20251026_EVM_anti_fraud_measures.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>First use of new anti-fraud powers to help identify claimants with undeclared savings or extended time spent overseas, saving taxpayers &pound;1.2 billion by 2030\/31.<\/li>\r\n<li>Banks will be asked to flag accounts where data suggests certain benefit eligibility rules may no longer be met.<\/li>\r\n<li>Part of the Government&rsquo;s wider plan to save &pound;14.6 billion by tackling fraud, error and debt, alongside broader moves to put work and opportunity at the heart of a sustainable welfare system.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The Department for Work and Pensions has issued its first Eligibility Verification Notice, requiring banks to share information to help the department check someone&rsquo;s benefit entitlement.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Eligibility Verification Measure (EVM) - expected to save taxpayers &pound;1.2 billion by 2030\/31 - will ask banks to help identify claimants who may have undeclared savings or remain abroad longer than benefit rules allow, two major drivers of fraud and error.<\/p>\r\n<p>The measures will help detect fraud, reduce incorrect payments and protect taxpayers&rsquo; money. They have been introduced as part of the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Act 2025 and contribute to the Government&rsquo;s wider drive to save the taxpayer &pound;14.6 billion over the next five years.<\/p>\r\n<p>They will also help identify incorrect payments sooner, ensuring people receive the support they are entitled to while reducing the risk of overpayments building up and claimants falling into avoidable debt.<\/p>\r\n<p>The move marks a significant step forward in the Government&rsquo;s drive to create a fairer welfare system by cracking down on fraud, reducing costly error and ensuring support is targeted at those who genuinely need it.<\/p>\r\n<p>A wider package of reforms, set to be unveiled at the Budget, is expected to save the taxpayer a further &pound;1.4 billion between 2027 and 2032. Measures include the deployment of 2000 additional anti-fraud specialists into Jobcentres nationwide, as well as tougher checks on Universal Credit claims abroad to tackle fraudsters who fail to report they have left the country to keep payments flowing. More broadly, the Budget will be built on fiscal stability, giving breathing space on the cost of living and the cost of doing business, and offering fresh hope for the future.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government will also deliver further sustainable welfare reform following the Milburn and Timms reviews &ndash; both due in the Autumn - with the Government already acting to reform the social security system by investing record funding for employment support to help disabled people and those with long-term health conditions and rebalancing Universal Credit.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"minister-for-innovation-fraud-and-debt-lilian-greenwood-said\">Minister for Innovation, Fraud and Debt Lilian Greenwood said:<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Benefit fraudsters should be looking over their shoulder. These new powers will help us crack down on those who deliberately abuse the system, while ensuring people receive the right support at the right time.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We are not interested in where people do their weekly shop or how much they&rsquo;re spending on new clothes. Banks will simply be asked to identify if somebody may no longer meet the rules for the benefits they receive, allowing us to investigate further where necessary.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"With &pound;1.2 billion in savings expected by 2030\/31, this is a major step forward in tackling fraud and error, protecting public money and ensuring support goes to those who genuinely need it.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The powers do not give DWP access to people&rsquo;s bank accounts, transactions or spending habits.<\/p>\r\n<p>Instead, banks are asked only to check relevant benefit receiving accounts against certain eligibility rules for benefits and flag cases where further enquiries may be required.<\/p>\r\n<p>A flag does not indicate fraud or wrongdoing, and no decision about a person&rsquo;s benefit entitlement can be made on EVM information alone.<\/p>\r\n<p>The measure will begin with a carefully managed test-and-learn phase and remain subject to independent oversight throughout before any wider rollout.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Eligibility Verification Measure is one of a number of powers introduced through the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Act 2025, alongside strengthened debt recovery powers and new information-gathering powers to help prevent, detect and investigate fraud.<\/p>\r\n<p>Together, the reforms form part of the Government&rsquo;s wider plan to save &pound;14.6 billion over the next five years while protecting the integrity of the welfare system and ensuring support reaches those who need it most.<\/p>\r\n<p>It sits alongside broader Government action to bring down the benefits bill, help more people into work and create opportunity across every postcode, including through our &pound;2.5 billion youth employment package.<\/p>\r\n<p>Recent high-profile fraud cases include:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk\/news\/greater-manchester-news\/man-who-fraudulently-claimed-70k-34676344\" rel=\"external\">Colin Hegarty<\/a> who falsely claimed more than &pound;70,000 by saying he was single and was caught out by a Facebook photo proposing to his partner.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thesun.co.uk\/news\/38872657\/benefit-cheat-pocketed-78-k-living-boyfriend\/\" rel=\"external\">Bethany Elwood<\/a> sentenced for &pound;78k Universal Credit fraud after lying that she was single for over four years, despite living with her boyfriend.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbc.co.uk\/news\/articles\/cn4vmw27x13o\" rel=\"external\">Catherine Wieland<\/a> was caught ziplining in Mexico and sentenced for &pound;23k PIP fraud.<\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-work-pensions\">Department for Work and Pensions<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 27 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">HS2 Safe at Heart Strategy<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Safe at Heart is HS2&#039;s strategy for health, safety and wellbeing\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nHS2 Safe at Heart Strategy\r\nPDF, 3.03 MB, 21 pages\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDetails\r\nFind out how we&amp;rsquo;re moving from good to great, for everyone building, testing and running the railway.\r\nFrom: High Speed Two (HS2) Limited...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Safe at Heart is HS2's strategy for health, safety and wellbeing<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adf1c0c2263175ac2aca40c\/BC_00211_Safe-at-Heart-Strategy-Accessible.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adf1c0c2263175ac2aca40c\/BC_00211_Safe-at-Heart-Strategy-Accessible.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">HS2 Safe at Heart Strategy<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 3.03 MB, 21 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>Find out how we&rsquo;re moving from good to great, for everyone building, testing and running the railway.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/high-speed-two-limited\">High Speed Two (HS2) Limited<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 26 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New practice guide on contractual control rights now available<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">HM Land Registry has published a new practice guide to help conveyancers and the wider property market understand and prepare for new requirements on contractual control agreements\r\n\r\nPractice guide 84 explains when information about contractual control rights over registered land must be provided t...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">HM Land Registry has published a new practice guide to help conveyancers and the wider property market understand and prepare for new requirements on contractual control agreements<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adf31b5d798ae11e9bc5cc9\/s300_shutterstock_2850661957_small.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/contractual-control-rights-pg-84\">Practice guide 84<\/a> explains when information about contractual control rights over registered land must be provided to HM Land Registry under the Provision of Information (Contractual Control) (Registered Land) Regulations 2026, what information is required, and how and when it must be submitted.<\/p>\r\n<p>The regulations come into force on 6 April 2027. From that date, information about certain agreements affecting registered land in England and Wales - including option agreements, conditional contracts and pre-emption rights - must be submitted digitally to HM Land Registry.<\/p>\r\n<p>The new requirements will improve transparency in the property market&nbsp;by making it easier to understand who has influence over how land is used and developed, even where ownership has not changed.<\/p>\r\n<p>The guide covers:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>the agreements and land that are in scope<\/li>\r\n<li>when information about a contractual control right must be provided<\/li>\r\n<li>how to provide contractual control information<\/li>\r\n<li>who must provide the required information<\/li>\r\n<li>the information and supporting material required<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"why-conveyancers-should-read-the-guide-now\">Why conveyancers should read the guide now<\/h2>\r\n<p>Reading the guide now will help conveyancers identify affected transactions and advise clients early. It also highlights practical steps that could prevent delay or extra cost, such as retaining relevant contracts, collecting dates and places of birth where a grantor is an individual, and arranging suitable spatial data where a right affects only part of a registered title.<\/p>\r\n<p>The practice guide offers further detail to the information we have previously provided to customers.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"read-the-practice-guide\">Read the practice guide<\/h2>\r\n<p>Read <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/contractual-control-rights-pg-84\">Contractual control rights (PG 84)<\/a> to understand the requirements and start preparing.<\/p>\r\n<p>If you have any questions about the information in the guidance, please email: <a href=\"mailto:contractualcontrolsteam@landregistry.gov.uk\">contractualcontrolsteam@landregistry.gov.uk<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>HM Land Registry will continue to provide updates ahead of the digital service going live on 6 April 2027.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/land-registry\">HM Land Registry<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 26 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Indicators of house building, UK: permanent dwellings started and completed by country, Q2 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Starts and completions of new build dwellings in the UK, on a quarterly and annual basis, time series data\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nIndicators of house building, UK: permanent dwellings started and completed by country, Q2 2026\r\nhttps:\/\/www.ons.gov.uk\/releases\/indicatorsofhousebuildingukpermanentdwell...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Starts and completions of new build dwellings in the UK, on a quarterly and annual basis, time series data<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ons.gov.uk\/releases\/indicatorsofhousebuildingukpermanentdwellingsstartedandcompletedbycountryq22026\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ons.gov.uk\/releases\/indicatorsofhousebuildingukpermanentdwellingsstartedandcompletedbycountryq22026\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Indicators of house building, UK: permanent dwellings started and completed by country, Q2 2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">https:\/\/www.ons.gov.uk\/releases\/indicatorsofhousebuildingukpermanentdwellingsstartedandcompletedbycountryq22026<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>Official statistics are produced impartially and free from political influence.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/office-for-national-statistics\">Office for National Statistics<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 26 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">New mental health pilot for young people supported by social care<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Young people supported by social care in Greater Manchester are set to benefit from a new mental health pilot\r\n\r\n\r\nNHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board has been selected as a pilot for a new mental health programme\r\nCare Together will cover up to 7,000 children and young people as well as th...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Young people supported by social care in Greater Manchester are set to benefit from a new mental health pilot<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/62750817e90e070dbf5acad5\/s300_DHSC_plaque.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board has been selected as a pilot for a new mental health programme<\/li>\r\n<li>Care Together will cover up to 7,000 children and young people as well as their parents, carers, and\/or guardians<\/li>\r\n<li>Mental health professionals from existing NHS services will be embedded in children&rsquo;s social care teams, giving greater access to mental health support Children and young people supported by social care, and their families in Greater Manchester, will benefit from faster, simpler access to mental health and social care support under a new Government pilot.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Care Together will test and evaluate a new model of care, embedding mental health professionals from existing NHS services into children&rsquo;s social care settings. The pilot aims to replace fragmented provision with faster access to expert, needs-led mental health support, including family therapy and support for parents and primary caregivers.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government is investing up to &pound;9.4 million over three years in the Care Together pilot, which will be run by Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board (ICB), working with Stockport, Tameside, and Rochdale local authorities.<\/p>\r\n<p>The pilot follows Professor Fonagy&rsquo;s independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism, which recommended better integrated mental health support.<\/p>\r\n<p>The latest figures on children in need, children on protection plans, children in care, and care leavers, including adopted children, across the three participating local authority areas show up to 7,000 children and young people, as well as their parents, carers, and\/or guardians, will be covered by the pilot.<\/p>\r\n<p>By bringing social care and mental health professionals together in one team, children, young people, and their families will have faster access to support tailored to their needs, reducing the need to navigate multiple services.<\/p>\r\n<p>Dame Diana Johnson, Minister of State for Public Health and Patient Safety, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"For too long, fragmented mental health services have left young people in care, care leavers, parents, carers, and guardians not knowing where to turn for support.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We are committed to change how we support young people, and this exciting and innovative pilot will see thousands more children across Greater Manchester get specialist mental health support based on their personal needs and in quicker time, before they reach crisis point.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Children&rsquo;s Minister Josh MacAlister said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Every child deserves people in their corner, and we know that children supported by social care often face severe mental health challenges because of the trauma and adversity they have faced.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"As well as this important pilot scheme we are expanding support for children leaving care, including through the national rollout of our Staying Close programme and corporate parenting duties for public bodies. We are also investing &pound;2.4 billion in early, targeted intervention and reform to children&rsquo;s social care to get families the help they need and keep them together wherever possible.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"All of this is intended to help some of our most vulnerable young people feel supported into adult life and have enduring, loving relationships into the future.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The pilot is set to launch in early 2027 and run until 2029. An evaluation will be carried out during the pilot to assess the potential to scale the programme to other areas across the country.<\/p>\r\n<p>Professor Manisha Kumar, Chief Clinical Officer at NHS Greater Manchester, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"NHS Greater Manchester continues to make significant progress in transforming children and young people&rsquo;s mental health services. Our focus remains on creating a system that provides support earlier, improves access, strengthens integration across services, and delivers better outcomes for children, young people, and their families. To this end, and as part of our wider transformation, we&rsquo;re really pleased that NHS Greater Manchester has been chosen to pilot Care Together. Over the next three years we will work with partners in Rochdale, Stockport and Tameside to provide innovative support those children and families who are known to children&rsquo;s social care.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We know that mental health outcomes are often impacted by a range of issues. Children who are known to social care have often experienced a range of adversity. By meeting needs earlier and in a joined-up way, we will provide trauma informed care and holistic support to ensure this vulnerable group have the right support at the right time. Bringing mental health professionals into social care teams will help us provide better support and learn what works for families here, and to help shape national changes.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>This follows this government&rsquo;s progress to improve children&rsquo;s social care, including:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>More widely we are reshaping children&rsquo;s social care so more children can grow up in loving families and communities, backed by &pound;2.4 billion through the Families First Partnership Programme and our commitment to create 10,000 new foster places this Parliament.<\/li>\r\n<li>We have passed the Children&rsquo;s Wellbeing and Schools Act which is transforming how public agencies safeguard children, work together and share information.<\/li>\r\n<li>The Act also expands support for young people leaving the care system, including expanding Staying Close support up to the age of 25 to provide dedicated assistance with employment, housing, education and health.<\/li>\r\n<li>We are funding a &pound;500 million expansion of children&rsquo;s homes delivering an increase in care placements in the right places to meet children&rsquo;s needs while cracking down on excess profits and illegal, unregistered children&rsquo;s homes.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/nhs-england\">NHS England<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/diana-johnson\">The Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson DBE MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/josh-macalister\">Josh MacAlister OBE MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 26 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">More money reaching children than ever thanks to Child Maintenance Service<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Children across the country are benefitting from a record high in payments being made by parents through an improved Child Maintenance Service (CMS)\r\n\r\n\r\nNearly 130,000 parents are now paying more than 90% of the child maintenance due, a record high and up 27% in a year.\r\nNewly-released figures also...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Children across the country are benefitting from a record high in payments being made by parents through an improved Child Maintenance Service (CMS)<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6adb3c442263175ac2aca370\/s300_20261023-child-maintenance-PN.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Nearly 130,000 parents are now paying more than 90% of the child maintenance due, a record high and up 27% in a year.<\/li>\r\n<li>Newly-released figures also show number of parents paying nothing has fallen by almost 20% since March 2025.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Government determined to turn the tide on child poverty and improve life chances across every postcode.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>New figures show thousands more parents are paying the child maintenance they owe as improvements to the CMS drive up compliance and improve customer service for families.<\/p>\r\n<p>The data shows the majority of parents using the service&rsquo;s Collect &amp; Pay function - nearly 130,000 parents - are now paying more than 90% of the maintenance due, up by around 27% in the last year.<\/p>\r\n<p>At the same time, the number of parents paying nothing has fallen by around 19% since March 2025, while CMS is supporting almost 1.6 million parents across Great Britain.<\/p>\r\n<p>The figures come as the Government works to tackle child poverty and give every child the best start in life, with child maintenance arrangements helping keep around 120,000 children out of relative poverty and providing vital support with the everyday costs of raising a child.<\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"minister-for-lords-baroness-maeve-sherlock-said\">Minister for Lords, Baroness Maeve Sherlock said:&nbsp;<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Our priority is simple - ensuring children get the support they are entitled to from both parents.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"As we continue to modernise the Child Maintenance Service record numbers of parents are now paying their child maintenance arrangements, helping more money reach children and supporting families right across the country.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Most parents who use the CMS support their children without CMS having to enforce it but, where parents don&rsquo;t meet their responsibilities, we will take action to ensure kids have food on their table and shoes on their feet.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Improving compliance also comes alongside a more modern and accessible service, with more parents choosing to manage their cases online, while those who need to contact CMS by phone are receiving faster responses and shorter waiting times.<\/p>\r\n<p>The figures show significant improvements in customer service, with 85% of calls now answered, compared with 59% in summer 2024, while average waiting times have fallen from more than 28 minutes to just over 11 minutes.<\/p>\r\n<p>Child maintenance plays a vital role in tackling child poverty, with the Government set to lift 550,000 children out of poverty in the final year of this Parliament, thanks to action including the lifting of the two-child benefit limit. This represents the largest reduction in child poverty since records began.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-work-pensions\">Department for Work and Pensions<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 26 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Health Bill: patient safety - fact sheet<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Outlines the proposed legislative changes in the Health Bill to the way patient safety is being strengthened\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nHealth Bill: patient safety - fact sheet\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nThe Health Bill is supporting 2 overarching aims:\r\n\r\nimprove patient safety and experience ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Outlines the proposed legislative changes in the Health Bill to the way patient safety is being strengthened<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/health-bill-patient-safety-fact-sheet\/health-bill-patient-safety-fact-sheet\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/health-bill-patient-safety-fact-sheet\/health-bill-patient-safety-fact-sheet\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Health Bill: patient safety - fact sheet<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Health Bill is supporting 2 overarching aims:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>improve patient safety and experience through a new single patient record (SPR), enabling joined-up, proactive care and empowering patients<\/li>\r\n<li>put power and resources in the hands of NHS organisations providing direct patient care by abolishing NHS England and stripping back national bureaucracy<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>See the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/health-bill\">Health Bill collection page<\/a> for the bill&rsquo;s other supporting documents:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>impact assessments<\/li>\r\n<li>equality impact assessments<\/li>\r\n<li>other fact sheets<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 23 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">NHS Pension Board annual report: 2024 to 2025<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Sets out the work of the NHS Pension Board from April 2024 to March 2025\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England and Wales\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nNHS Pension Board annual report: 2024 to 2025\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nThis is the 10th annual report by the NHS Pension Board, covering the period April 2024 to March 2025. The repor...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Sets out the work of the NHS Pension Board from April 2024 to March 2025<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England and Wales<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/nhs-pension-board-annual-report-2024-to-2025\/nhs-pension-board-annual-report-2024-to-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/nhs-pension-board-annual-report-2024-to-2025\/nhs-pension-board-annual-report-2024-to-2025\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">NHS Pension Board annual report: 2024 to 2025<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This is the 10th annual report by the NHS Pension Board, covering the period April 2024 to March 2025. The report covers the board&rsquo;s:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>objectives<\/li>\r\n<li>membership<\/li>\r\n<li>terms of reference<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/groups\/nhs-pension-board\">NHS Pension Board<\/a>&nbsp;was established under the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislation.gov.uk\/ukpga\/2013\/25\/contents\" rel=\"external\">Public Service Pensions Act 2013<\/a> and has operated since 1 April 2015.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 23 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">PM puts communities first in government investment rules shake up<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Partnership with local leaders shows No10 North in action putting power back into communities\r\n\r\n\r\nChanges to investment rules will make fairer funding decisions for projects across the country\r\nNo10 North to support all areas across the country to benefit from updated rules\r\n\r\nPreviously overlooked...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Partnership with local leaders shows No10 North in action putting power back into communities<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37db09e5274a79051c9235\/s300_HMT_buiding_plaque.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Changes to investment rules will make fairer funding decisions for projects across the country<\/li>\r\n<li>No10 North to support all areas across the country to benefit from updated rules<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Previously overlooked places around the UK will be better able to make the case for investment, thanks to changes confirmed by the Prime Minister today to help break down barriers to growth.<\/p>\r\n<p>As part of the government&rsquo;s work to drive good growth in every postcode, the Prime Minister set out plans to deliver a package of Green Book reforms at next week&rsquo;s Budget.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government&rsquo;s &lsquo;Green Book&rsquo; is the official framework used to assess business cases for spending projects across the UK. Currently, projects on different issues, for example a housing scheme or transport proposal, are considered independently of each other. This means that the wider potential available from projects in a certain area is often missed or undervalued, whereas considering projects together gives a fuller picture of their potential.<\/p>\r\n<p>The guidance will therefore be updated to help places, including local and strategic authorities, to build investment plans around a more detailed picture of their local economy, pinpointing the barriers to growth and coordinating investment around those challenges.<\/p>\r\n<p>The updated framework will help generate new place-based business cases which will put local priorities at the heart of investment decisions, looking at a place&rsquo;s potential for growth and what is needed to unlock it and making sure places previously overlooked for investment are properly considered.<\/p>\r\n<p>That means looking at the bigger picture. Where low employment and skills shortages are holding back growth, for instance, the new approach will consider how different investments could work together to tackle both challenges and support long-term growth, rather than looking at individual projects separately.<\/p>\r\n<p>No10 North will help support local areas all across the country to make the most of the changes, including providing assistance to places not currently represented by mayors, to engage with the new process and draft strong business cases so that they are on a level playing field.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"prime-minister-andy-burnham-said\">Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Communities have been let down for years by outdated rules that haven&rsquo;t properly looked at what&rsquo;s needed to unlock their potential.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re changing the system so that local priorities are put at the heart of decision making.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This is what No10 North is all about. Rebalancing power away from Westminster. Backing local leaders. And making sure government is set up to deliver what communities actually need to feel the difference.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The Prime Minister outlined how this approach will come alongside the work of No10 North to drive growth and support local leadership in all parts of the UK to deliver for their communities.<\/p>\r\n<p>The changes were announced alongside a meeting with English mayors at No10 North today. Around the Situation Room table, the Prime Minister and Mayors discussed the challenges facing their regions and how government and local leaders can work together to overcome them. This comes after a recent visit of the Chair and Chief Executive of the Local Government Association to Number 10 North to discuss the role of local government in delivering progress in rewiring the state, and the Prime Minister will also soon meet with heads of devolved governments at the next meeting of the National Economic Council.<\/p>\r\n<p>Today&rsquo;s meeting comes ahead of next week&rsquo;s Budget, where Chancellor John Healey will set out the next steps in the government&rsquo;s drive to move power and resources out of Westminster. This will include a roadmap for future fiscal devolution, setting out plans to give regional leaders control over how they allocate a share of some national taxes.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"chancellor-john-healey-mp-said\">Chancellor John Healey MP said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"This government wants to back places with the ambition and ideas to grow and make sure good opportunities for investment aren&rsquo;t overlooked simply because the system doesn&rsquo;t see the bigger picture. This change gives regional leaders a stronger voice in where investment can make the biggest difference in their communities.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"And at next week&rsquo;s Budget I will set out plans to transfer more power and resources out of Westminster and into postcodes across the country.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Further Green Book reforms at the Budget will build on changes announced by Healey last month, including cutting the headline discount rate from 3.5% to 3%. This will place greater value on the long-term benefits of investment and strengthen the case for transformational projects that drive growth &ndash; wherever they take place.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"claire-ward-mayor-of-the-east-midlands-and-chair-of-the-uk-mayors-network-said\">Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands and Chair of the UK Mayors Network said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"Rewiring the State is a mission for all layers of Government, and the Number 10 North Situation Room is one of the ways that the Prime Minister brings those layers together. He knows &ndash; from his time as a Mayor &ndash; that all important work is done in partnership, and partnerships need space to breathe, share barriers, and do business. It is a space that the Mayors value, because it gets things done.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Today, we have been discussing a specific bit of rewiring: how to ensure different investments in a single place can be seen as one, joined up case. People do not see housing, transport, and other infrastructure investments in isolation: they see the benefits to their home, their place, and their economy. It is important that we do likewise &ndash; not least as it wastes public money when we have to make the same case for each element of what is clearly an interconnected proposal.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Getting changes like this right look small on the surface, but they mean that we can bring the benefits of growth into our regions, avoid further widening inequalities, and unlock the interesting, complex investments that will do so much for the people we serve.\"<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"chair-of-the-local-government-association-eamon-obrien-said\">Chair of the Local Government Association, Eamon O&rsquo;Brien, said:<\/h3>\r\n<p>\"These proposed reforms rightly recognise that investment decisions must better reflect the needs, priorities and potential of local communities.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Councils know their places best and are uniquely positioned to bring together investment in housing, transport, skills and public services to deliver long-term growth.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"It is encouraging to see greater recognition of the importance of place-based decision-making and local democratic leadership.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The LGA has been engaging closely with Government, including through No.10 North, to ensure the voice of local government helps shape this agenda. It is vital that both local and strategic authorities have the powers, flexibility and resources to turn these ambitions into real improvements for communities.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-treasury\">HM Treasury<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/prime-ministers-office-10-downing-street\">Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/john-healey\">The Rt Hon John Healey MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 23 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Chief of the General Staff&#039;s speech at the opening of Telford Gun Hall<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Roly Walker&#039;s speech at the official opening of Telford Gun Hall\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nSecretary of State, ladies and gentlemen, it is an absolute privilege to be here at Telford today. This marks the return of large-calibre gun barrel manufacturing to the United Kingd...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Roly Walker's speech at the official opening of Telford Gun Hall<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/666ff0adcd41e02809222996\/Chief-of-the-General-Staff-Lt-Gen-Roly-Walker-DSO.jpg\" alt=\"General Sir Roly Walker KCB DSO\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Secretary of State, ladies and gentlemen, it is an absolute privilege to be here at Telford today. This marks the return of large-calibre gun barrel manufacturing to the United Kingdom. This is a capability that sadly has been absent from these shores for decades.<\/p>\r\n<p>I say sadly because Great Britain has a proud history of producing its own artillery. For centuries the Royal Arsenal at Woolwich was synonymous with excellence in this technology, and it produced artillery that shaped the outcomes of conflicts from the Napoleonic Wars through the World Wars and into the Cold War.<\/p>\r\n<p>That arc of history reminds us that whilst armies, navies and air forces can win the battles, it takes nations to come together to win wars. The world today has brought that lesson sharply back into focus. Modern warfare consumes equipment and ammunition at extraordinary rates. In Ukraine, we know that both sides fire tens of thousands of rounds of artillery ammunition every day. And that generates a weight of fire and levels of lethality across the battlefield that drones alone cannot replicate.<\/p>\r\n<p>So, to be ready to defend against attack, we must be prepared to replace and repair those fighting systems at the rate of their consumption. But industrial capacity cannot be conjured in a crisis. It must be built before the conflict.<\/p>\r\n<p>And this facility represents an important step, a really important step in that direction. It supports the modernisation of our land forces whilst also rebuilding the skills and industrial capacity on which our future fighting power depends. It is also an incredibly strong signal of intent, a commitment to the partnership between governments, industry, and the armed forces to build the national arsenal that underwrites our national security and allows the nation&rsquo;s soldiers to protect all that we hold dear.<\/p>\r\n<p>So, in many ways, this is for them, for those soldiers, and on their behalf, today&rsquo;s and tomorrow&rsquo;s that I say thank you for doing what you&rsquo;ve done.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-defence\">Ministry of Defence<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/roly-walker\">General Sir Roly Walker KCB DSO<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 23 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Defence Secretary Wes Streeting&#039;s speech at the opening of Telford Gun Hall<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Defence Secretary spoke on British industry and sovereign production capacity at the official opening of Telford Gun Hall\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nLadies and gentlemen, our dear friend, the German ambassador, Shaun Davies, the local member of Parliament, who is Telford&amp;rsquo;s greatest champion on the national ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Defence Secretary spoke on British industry and sovereign production capacity at the official opening of Telford Gun Hall<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a621bc29a419980593b2b0e\/The-Rt-Hon-Wes-Streeting-MP.jpg\" alt=\"The Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Ladies and gentlemen, our dear friend, the German ambassador, Shaun Davies, the local member of Parliament, who is Telford&rsquo;s greatest champion on the national and international stage, it really is a huge privilege to be with you all to open the new UK Gun Hall today. Special thanks are due to Armin, to Rebecca, to everyone from Rheinmetall, not just for laying on this great event, but also for your long-standing investment in Britain and the jobs and communities which that investment supports.<\/p>\r\n<p>I think the fact that we&rsquo;ve got such an array of leaders and representatives from across government, industry and the military speaks to the critical importance of this new facility, and I want to start by sending every single word you heard about the importance of what we&rsquo;re marking today.<\/p>\r\n<p>As someone who loves our country&rsquo;s history, it&rsquo;s not lost on me that we&rsquo;re a stone&rsquo;s throw away from the birthplace of British industry, and a part of our country that&rsquo;s synonymous with engineering and manufacturing.<\/p>\r\n<p>So it feels especially fitting that we&rsquo;re here to celebrate how we are renewing and reigniting that unique industrial strength. Today is a vote of confidence in our country, a statement of intent on our mission to reindustrialise Britain and create good, well-paid jobs across our country, and proof that we are rebuilding the capabilities of our armed forces.<\/p>\r\n<p>And so what we&rsquo;re opening the doors to here is more than a manufacturing plant. We&rsquo;re opening the doors to something much greater and much more ambitious. And that is readiness and resilience. For the first time in decades, artillery gun barrels will be produced in Britain. They will be made using British steel from Forgemasters. As we&rsquo;ve heard, their production will create one hundred jobs here and hundreds more across the supply chain right across the country.<\/p>\r\n<p>Gun Hall will also support the next generation of equipment for the British Army, helping to deliver the firepower that will make us warfighting ready by 2030. And on top of all of this, this facility stands as a symbol of the deepening defence industrial relationship between the United Kingdom and our friends in Germany.<\/p>\r\n<p>All of this adds up to a new era of hope and opportunity for this town, this region, and our country as we face up to a new era of threat and jeopardy.<\/p>\r\n<p>As the Chief of the General Staff just said, we are making daily discoveries about the changing nature of the conflict in Ukraine. Yet, as was also pointed out, for all of the technological advances we&rsquo;re seeing on the battlefield, what you might call more traditional weaponry still has its place in modern warfare.<\/p>\r\n<p>But those armaments do not get produced by waving a magic wand. Nor in the event that this country finds itself in a war fighting state, can that capability and capacity in industry be conjured up.<\/p>\r\n<p>To make sure we can deter and, if necessary, defeat, our adversaries, Britain must have the capacity to manufacture critical defence components at home and in sufficient quantities. We must have the capacity to increase production and replenish stockpiles when threats increase. We must have robust supply chains to back them up, and we must have the wider industrial resilience to sustain our armed forces through prolonged conflict.<\/p>\r\n<p>Despite the advent of drones and data of AI and autonomy, it is not enough to simply out-innovate those who would wish us harm, though we must. We must also outproduce them too, because advantage increasingly belongs to those who can manufacture at scale and field capability fastest.<\/p>\r\n<p>And that&rsquo;s what Rheinmetall here in Telford will help us to achieve. Here is also where our ambition to turn defence investment into jobs, skills and growth in every postcode becomes reality. The threat environment requires us to deliver the biggest sustained increase in defence investment since the end of the Cold War.<\/p>\r\n<p>And I&rsquo;m acutely aware that investment in defence comes with trade-offs and choices in other areas of government spending, and at a cost to the taxpayer. So investment in defence will only command lasting public support if people can see not only how that investment strengthens our national defence, but also if they can see how it improves their lives, how it makes sure that we have a Britain that is worth fighting for.<\/p>\r\n<p>That means bringing opportunity to every corner of the country. Almost seventy percent of defence investment is already spent outside London and the South East, and we&rsquo;re setting out shortly how people and communities in every nation and region of the UK will feel benefits and do feel benefits from the defence dividend.<\/p>\r\n<p>Here in the West Midlands, the defence economy is worth &pound;1.8 billion and directly support around 8,000 jobs, with Rheinmetall at the forefront. Defence can also help us to tackle the moral emergency of more than a million young people out of work or education or training.<\/p>\r\n<p>So it&rsquo;s not just about spending more, although spending more is necessary. Every pound we invest in defence should be judged by what it does for Britain. Does it strengthen our industrial base? Does it push the frontier of innovation? Does it create skilled work, especially for young people? Over the next decade, this facility will emphatically answer yes to all those questions.<\/p>\r\n<p>And as it does, it will inject more than &pound;400 million into the UK economy. That&rsquo;s precisely what I mean when I say that the Ministry of Defence can also be a ministry for growth and a ministry for opportunity, not simply spending more, but investing more wisely, backing the people, places and businesses that strengthen our national security and drive our national renewal.<\/p>\r\n<p>Every country across the NATO alliance faces similar challenges in the headwinds of rising threats and tighter finances. As we confront that reality, we need to avoid healthy competition becoming self-defeating rivalry and protectionism.<\/p>\r\n<p>And this factory is a reminder that stronger domestic industries and deeper allied integration are not contradictory. Done right, each strengthens the other.<\/p>\r\n<p>On so many fronts. UK and German interests align &ndash; nowhere more so than when it comes to our defence and security. We are the two biggest economies in Europe, the two biggest investors in defence, so it makes sense that we should come together in common purpose. Our partnership matters not as an end in itself, but because of what it allows our countries to deliver together.<\/p>\r\n<p>The defining test is not where every single component of a piece of kit or equipment was made. It is whether our combined industrial base can give our armed forces what they need, when they need it, because an alliance that can mobilise its armies must also be able to mobilise its industries.<\/p>\r\n<p>This has Armin alluded to, is what lies behind the Trinity House agreement that deepens defence cooperation between our two countries. By working as one, we can build manufacturing capability home so that we can deliver faster and ultimately strengthen NATO, which is in all our interests.<\/p>\r\n<p>In this new age of insecurity, we need to spend more and better, and we are. We need to prepare more, and we are, with better training and more kit and equipment in the hands of our armed forces. And we need to produce more, and we are. We are right here in a region rich in industrial heritage, honouring its past by investing in its future. The threats we face are real, and they are closer to home. We need to step up and together we are.<\/p>\r\n<p>So thank you very much for being here and for the amazing work that&rsquo;s gone into this incredible facility. Thank you.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-defence\">Ministry of Defence<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/wes-streeting\">The Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 23 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Diversity and Inclusion Statement for the Bar on the use of Panel Counsel<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Government Legal Department&#039;s statement on the use of Panel Counsel, promoting fair and inclusive instruction practices and access to opportunities across the Bar\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nGovernment Legal Department Diversity and Inclusion Statement for the Bar on the use of Panel Counsel\r\nHTML\r\n ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Government Legal Department's statement on the use of Panel Counsel, promoting fair and inclusive instruction practices and access to opportunities across the Bar<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/diversity-and-inclusion-statement-for-the-bar-on-the-use-of-panel-counsel\/government-legal-department-diversity-and-inclusion-statement-for-the-bar-on-the-use-of-panel-counsel\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/diversity-and-inclusion-statement-for-the-bar-on-the-use-of-panel-counsel\/government-legal-department-diversity-and-inclusion-statement-for-the-bar-on-the-use-of-panel-counsel\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Government Legal Department Diversity and Inclusion Statement for the Bar on the use of Panel Counsel<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8a256b63982f71c3bd397\/Government_Legal_Department_Diversity_and_Inclusion_Statement_for_the_Bar_on_the_use_of_Panel_Counsel.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8a256b63982f71c3bd397\/Government_Legal_Department_Diversity_and_Inclusion_Statement_for_the_Bar_on_the_use_of_Panel_Counsel.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Government Legal Department Diversity and Inclusion Statement for the Bar on the use of Panel Counsel<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 439 KB, 7 pages<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Government Legal Department&rsquo;s Diversity and Inclusion Statement for the Bar sets out the principles that will guide its use of Panel Counsel and its engagement with chambers. It outlines expectations on fair and inclusive instruction practices, diversity monitoring and support for underrepresented talent. The statement is intended for counsel, chambers and others involved in delivering legal services to government<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/attorney-generals-office\">Attorney General's Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/government-legal-department\">Government Legal Department<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Sector risk profiles<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">These reports set out the main risks facing the social housing sector and some of the actions registered providers should be taking to manage those risks\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nContents\r\n\r\nReports\r\nAddendums\r\n\r\nBoards of registered providers are responsible for managing the risks their organisations face.\r\nThe Re...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">These reports set out the main risks facing the social housing sector and some of the actions registered providers should be taking to manage those risks<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-contents-list__title\">Contents<\/h2>\r\n<ol class=\"gem-c-contents-list__list\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--dashed\"><a class=\"gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/sector-risk-profiles#reports\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Reports<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-contents-list__list-item gem-c-contents-list__list-item--dashed\"><a class=\"gem-c-contents-list__link govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles govuk-link--no-underline\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/sector-risk-profiles#addendums\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Addendums<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<p>Boards of registered providers are responsible for managing the risks their organisations face.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Regulator of Social Housing&rsquo;s Sector risk profile is intended to help boards have a better understanding of those risks in an increasingly complex and diverse sector.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"reports\" class=\"govuk-heading-m govuk-!-font-size-27\"><br \/>Reports<\/h3>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list govuk-!-margin-bottom-5\" type=\"\" data-module=\"ga4-link-tracker\" data-ga4-link=\"{\" data-ga4-link-tracker-module-started=\"true\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2026\">Sector Risk Profile 2026<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">22 October 2026<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2025\">Sector Risk Profile 2025<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">6 November 2025<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2024\">Sector risk profile 2024<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">17 October 2024<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2023\">Sector risk profile 2023<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">14 November 2023<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2022\">Sector risk profile 2022<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">20 October 2022<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2021\">Sector risk profile 2021<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">19 October 2021<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2020\">Sector risk profile 2020<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">26 November 2020<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2019\">Sector risk profile 2019<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">6 March 2020<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2018\">Sector risk profile 2018<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">4 April 2019<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2017\">Sector risk profile 2017<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">28 July 2017<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2016\">Sector risk profile 2016<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">21 September 2016<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2015\">Sector risk profile 2015<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">18 September 2015<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2014\">Sector risk profile 2014<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">1 September 2014<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/sector-risk-profile-2013\">Sector risk profile 2013<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">1 September 2013<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3 id=\"addendums\" class=\"govuk-heading-m govuk-!-font-size-27\"><br \/>Addendums<\/h3>\r\n<p>Occasionally we publish an addendum to the Sector risk profile<\/p>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list govuk-!-margin-bottom-5\" type=\"\" data-module=\"ga4-link-tracker\" data-ga4-link=\"{\" data-ga4-link-tracker-module-started=\"true\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/setting-rents-for-social-housing\">Setting rents for social housing<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">5 March 2020<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__item  \"><a class=\"  govuk-link gem-print-force-link-styles \" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/lease-based-providers-of-specialist-supported-housing\">Lease-based providers of specialised supported housing<\/a>\r\n<ul class=\"gem-c-document-list__item-metadata\">\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">4 April 2019<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"gem-c-document-list__attribute\">Research and analysis<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/regulator-of-social-housing\">Regulator of Social Housing<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Strong strategic leadership key to overcoming risks, says RSH<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Regulator of Social Housing has published its latest Sector Risk Profile report\r\n\r\nRSH has urged social housing boards and councillors to provide strong strategic leadership and ensure they have the information and insight needed to make difficult decisions about competing priorities.\r\nRSH&amp;rsquo...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Regulator of Social Housing has published its latest Sector Risk Profile report<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/667012bdfed5bd09e5195ab1\/s300_Untitled_design__24_.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>RSH has urged social housing boards and councillors to provide strong strategic leadership and ensure they have the information and insight needed to make difficult decisions about competing priorities.<\/p>\r\n<p>RSH&rsquo;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/sector-risk-profiles\">Sector Risk Profile report<\/a>, published today, warned landlords must manage growing financial and operational risks to be able to balance major investment in existing homes with the need to build new social housing.<\/p>\r\n<p>The report highlighted the increasingly complex operating environment facing landlords as they work to improve the quality, safety and energy efficiency of existing homes while helping to address significant demand for new affordable housing.<\/p>\r\n<p>Landlords continue to invest heavily in tenants&rsquo; existing homes, but further substantial investment will be required to meet building safety requirements, improve stock condition and adapt to requirements of Awaab&rsquo;s Law, the Decent Homes Standard and Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).<\/p>\r\n<p>At the same time, social landlords are expected to play a key role in increasing supply of affordable homes. For some organisations this presents new development challenges, while others face decisions about how to expand delivery sustainably and manage associate risks including innovative financing models.<\/p>\r\n<p>The report warns that these pressures are being compounded by a difficult economic environment.<\/p>\r\n<p>Although there are signs that financial performance may be stabilising, many landlords continue to operate with historically low levels of interest cover and face increased borrowing costs, refinancing pressures and ongoing inflationary risks.<\/p>\r\n<p>The report also highlights the importance of managing cyber security, data protection and operation resilience risks as organisations becoming increasingly reliant on digital systems and technology.<\/p>\r\n<p>RSH Chief Executive Jonathan Walters said: &ldquo;Social landlords are operating in a challenging and fast-changing environment. They must continue investing in existing homes to ensure tenants have safe, decent and well-managed homes, while also helping to deliver the new social housing the country needs.<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;There are no easy choices. Landlords must carefully balance competing priorities, manage risks effectively and ensure their organisations remain financially resilient.<\/p>\r\n<p>&ldquo;Strong governance, a clear strategic direction and the need to take a longer-term view are essential. Boards and councillors must be ready to make evidence-based decisions that support their fundamental purpose of delivering more and better social homes for current and future tenants.&rdquo;<\/p>\r\n<p>The report emphasises that landlords should focus on achieving value for money and operating as efficiently as possible to maximise their capacity to invest.<\/p>\r\n<p>While some organisations are considering the disposal of existing properties to release resources, the report warns that this can reduce the availability of social homes and should not be relied upon as a long-term solution.<\/p>\r\n<p>And while the sector faces significant challenges, organisations that remain focused on their purpose, maintain a clear strategic direction and adapt effectively to changing circumstances will be better placed to deliver safe homes and meet future housing need.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/regulator-of-social-housing\">Regulator of Social Housing<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Hillsborough Law Bill<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The government has introduced the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, known as the Hillsborough Law, into Parliament\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England and Wales\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nHillsborough Law Bill\r\nhttps:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4019\r\n \r\nDuty of Candour fact sheet\r\nPDF, 122 KB, 3 pages\r\n \r\nMisconduct...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The government has introduced the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, known as the Hillsborough Law, into Parliament<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England and Wales<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4019\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4019\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Hillsborough Law Bill<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">https:\/\/bills.parliament.uk\/bills\/4019<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/69c3fd574a06660f085441cd\/POA_Bill_-_Duty_of_Candour_Fact_Sheet.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/69c3fd574a06660f085441cd\/POA_Bill_-_Duty_of_Candour_Fact_Sheet.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Duty of Candour fact sheet<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 122 KB, 3 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c923ac5e09a4a59af0bf11\/MiPO_POA_Bill_Fact_Sheet.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c923ac5e09a4a59af0bf11\/MiPO_POA_Bill_Fact_Sheet.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Misconduct in Public Office Measures fact sheet<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 117 KB, 4 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c92f5d1eabc899da7083fe\/Parity_of_Arms_Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c92f5d1eabc899da7083fe\/Parity_of_Arms_Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Parity of Arms fact sheet<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 144 KB, 4 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8d3365eadc3d6e8a1096d\/duty-candour-impact-assessment.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8d3365eadc3d6e8a1096d\/duty-candour-impact-assessment.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> Impact Assessment: Duty of Candour<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 264 KB, 10 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c9249b07d9e92bc5517b3e\/Impact_Assessment_-_MiPO_Signed.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c9249b07d9e92bc5517b3e\/Impact_Assessment_-_MiPO_Signed.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Impact Assessment: Misconduct in Public Office Measures <\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 370 KB, 10 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8d3476ac759576e3bd463\/parity-arms-impact-assemment.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8d3476ac759576e3bd463\/parity-arms-impact-assemment.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Impact Assessment: Parity of Arms<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 310 KB, 13 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c924f907d9e92bc5517b3f\/Equalities_Impact_Assessment_-_Duty_of_Candour_Measures.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c924f907d9e92bc5517b3f\/Equalities_Impact_Assessment_-_Duty_of_Candour_Measures.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Equalities Impact Assessment: Duty of Candour Measures<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 169 KB, 5 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c925351eabc899da7083fb\/Equalities_Impact_Assessment_-_MiPO.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c925351eabc899da7083fb\/Equalities_Impact_Assessment_-_MiPO.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Equalities Impact Assessment: Misconduct in Public Office measures <\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 199 KB, 8 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c925be995dfd01bff0bf35\/Equalities_Impact_Assessment_-_Parity_of_Arms.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/68c925be995dfd01bff0bf35\/Equalities_Impact_Assessment_-_Parity_of_Arms.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> Equalities Impact Assessment: Parity of Arms<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 296 KB, 11 pages<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hillsborough-law-bill\/y-bil-swyddi-cyhoeddus-atebolrwydd-taflen-ffeithiau-cydraddoldeb-arfau\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hillsborough-law-bill\/y-bil-swyddi-cyhoeddus-atebolrwydd-taflen-ffeithiau-cydraddoldeb-arfau\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Y Bil Swyddi Cyhoeddus (Atebolrwydd): Taflen Ffeithiau Cydraddoldeb Arfau<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hillsborough-law-bill\/y-bil-swyddi-cyhoeddus-atebolrwydd-mesurau-camymddwyn-mewn-swydd-gyhoeddus\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hillsborough-law-bill\/y-bil-swyddi-cyhoeddus-atebolrwydd-mesurau-camymddwyn-mewn-swydd-gyhoeddus\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Y Bil Swyddi Cyhoeddus (Atebolrwydd): Mesurau Camymddwyn mewn Swydd Gyhoeddus<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hillsborough-law-bill\/taflen-ffeithiau-y-bil-swyddi-cyhoeddus-atebolrwydd-mesurau-dyletswydd-gonestrwydd\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/hillsborough-law-bill\/taflen-ffeithiau-y-bil-swyddi-cyhoeddus-atebolrwydd-mesurau-dyletswydd-gonestrwydd\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Taflen Ffeithiau &ndash; Y Bil Swyddi Cyhoeddus (Atebolrwydd): Mesurau Dyletswydd Gonestrwydd<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Public Office (Accountability) Bill &ndash; otherwise known as the Hillsborough Law &ndash; introduced to Parliament today (16 September) places a new legal duty on public servants to act truthfully and fully support investigations into the state, ensuring wrongdoing is not concealed and delivering justice for victims.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>It also replaces the current Misconduct in Public Office offence which more clearly uphold the high standards the public rightly expect of officials, with tough sanctions including time behind bars for those who fall short.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Bereaved families will benefit from the largest expansion in legal aid for a decade, providing non-means-tested legal help and representation for inquests. There will also be a new duty on public authorities to ensure any spend on legal advice and representation at inquests is necessary and proportionate. The duty will also guide the conduct of lawyers at the Coroner court ensuing families are always treated with sensitivity and respect.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-justice\">Ministry of Justice<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Community and Engagement Survey 2025\/26: loneliness<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The findings of the Community and Engagement Survey for loneliness in 2025\/26\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nCommunity and Engagement Survey 2025\/26 - loneliness: data tables\r\nODS, 174 KB\r\nThis file is in an OpenDocument format\r\n \r\nCommunity and Engagement Survey 2025\/26 - loneliness: re...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The findings of the Community and Engagement Survey for loneliness in 2025\/26<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a705444cceb23e867897804\/community_and_engagement_2025_26_loneliness_data_tables.ods\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a705444cceb23e867897804\/community_and_engagement_2025_26_loneliness_data_tables.ods\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Community and Engagement Survey 2025\/26 - loneliness: data tables<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">ODS, 174 KB<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">This file is in an <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/using-open-document-formats-odf-in-your-organisation\" target=\"_self\">OpenDocument<\/a> format<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/community-and-engagement-survey-202526-loneliness\/community-and-engagement-survey-202526-loneliness-report\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/community-and-engagement-survey-202526-loneliness\/community-and-engagement-survey-202526-loneliness-report\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Community and Engagement Survey 2025\/26 - loneliness: report<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>For the summary report of all headline findings for this publication, or to find the detailed statistics with full demographic and geographic breakdowns for the other topics covered in this survey, please return to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/community-and-engagement-survey-202526\">main landing page for this release<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/community-and-engagement-survey\">Community and Engagement Survey (CES)<\/a>&nbsp;is a continuous push to web survey of people aged 16 and over in England,&nbsp;designed to explore how people across England engage with their community and with culture, media and live sport and allows respondents&rsquo; views to be heard on a range of issues affecting their local area. In October 2025, the Community and Engagement Survey replaced DCMS&rsquo;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/participation-survey#the-participation-survey\">Participation Survey<\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/collections\/community-life-survey--2\">Community Life Survey<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>For guidance to interpretation of these statistics, the technical report and other documents relevant to this publication, please view the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/community-and-engagement-survey-202526-supplementary-documents\">supplementary documents page<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Released:&nbsp;31 July 2026.<\/li>\r\n<li>Period covered:&nbsp;October 2025 to March 2026.<\/li>\r\n<li>Geographic coverage: National, regional and local authority level data for England.<\/li>\r\n<li>Next release date:&nbsp;September 2026 (quarterly data covering April to June 2026)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"additional-information\">Additional Information<\/h2>\r\n<p>The&nbsp;Community and Engagement Survey&nbsp;is asked of people aged 16 and over in England. Currently there is no harmonised survey or set of questions within the devolved administrations of the UK. Data on&nbsp;many areas of the Community and Engagement Survey&nbsp;are available in the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.scot\/collections\/scottish-household-survey\/\" rel=\"external\">Scottish Household Survey<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/gov.wales\/national-survey-wales\" rel=\"external\">National Survey for Wales<\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.communities-ni.gov.uk\/topics\/statistics-and-research\/culture-and-heritage-statistics\" rel=\"external\">Northern Ireland Continuous Household Survey<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>The pre-release access document contains a list of ministers and officials who have received privileged early access to this release of&nbsp;Community and Engagement Survey&nbsp;data. In line with best practice, the list has been kept to a minimum and those given access for briefing purposes had a maximum of 24 hours. Details on the pre-release access arrangements for this dataset are available on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/statistics\/community-and-engagement-survey-202526-supplementary-documents\">supplementary documents page<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>Our statistical practice is regulated by the OSR. OSR sets the standards of trustworthiness, quality and value in the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/code.statisticsauthority.gov.uk\/the-code\/\" rel=\"external\">Code of Practice for Statistics<\/a>&nbsp;that all producers of official statistics should adhere to.<\/p>\r\n<p>You are welcome to contact us directly with any comments about how we meet these standards by emailing&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:evidence@dcms.gov.uk\">evidence@dcms.gov.uk<\/a>. Alternatively, you can contact OSR by emailing&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:regulation@statistics.gov.uk\">regulation@statistics.gov.uk<\/a>&nbsp;or via the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/osr.statisticsauthority.gov.uk\/\" rel=\"external\">OSR website<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>The responsible analyst for this release&nbsp;is Dea Begaj. For enquiries on this release, contact&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:cesurvey@dcms.gov.uk\">cesurvey@dcms.gov.uk<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-digital-culture-media-and-sport\">Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-culture-media-and-sport\">Department for Culture, Media and Sport<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Record funding, record results: 7,000 miles of smoother journeys as government tackles potholes<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Extra &amp;pound;220 million released for pothole repairs as figures show record road maintenance spend by councils\r\n\r\n\r\nnew reports show record spending on road maintenance, with councils spending over &amp;pound;800 million more than 2 years ago to help motorists avoid unnecessary repair bills\r\nnearly 7,0...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Extra &pound;220 million released for pothole repairs as figures show record road maintenance spend by councils<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8bdaa5eadc3d6e8a1094d\/s300_pothole-filling.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>new reports show record spending on road maintenance, with councils spending over &pound;800 million more than 2 years ago to help motorists avoid unnecessary repair bills<\/li>\r\n<li>nearly 7,000 miles of road resurfacing taking place this year, up 10% on last year<\/li>\r\n<li>government releases a further &pound;220 million today to councils across England to go even further to repair potholes across the country<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/local-highways-maintenance-transparency-reports\">Nearly 7,000 miles of road resurfacing &ndash; the equivalent of travelling between London and Singapore &ndash; will be completed this year<\/a> according to new figures published today (21 October 2026) as the government looks to give drivers more breathing space and help with the cost of living.<\/p>\r\n<p>Figures from local councils shows over 10% more resurfacing than took place last year as data also shows that councils are starting to properly invest in their roads with &pound;4.9 billion total being spent this year, &pound;800 million more than before this government came to power.<\/p>\r\n<p>The record figures show that the government&rsquo;s &pound;7.3 billion in funding for road maintenance is starting to deliver better roads for communities that have suffered from potholes, helping the average driver save up to nearly &pound;600 pounds on costly repairs.<\/p>\r\n<p>Following the publication of today&rsquo;s data, the government has gone even further and unlocked &pound;220 million in incentive-based funding to councils across England for meeting performance-based targets. Further funding will be released later in the year only if councils reach their performance targets, and can be withheld if they fail to reach them as part of the government&rsquo;s efforts to hold councils to account.<\/p>\r\n<p>Potholes continue to be a daily nuisance for drivers across the country, whether they&rsquo;re travelling to work, the school run or a hospital appointment. But record funding and new measures to hold councils to account and make transport better, also shown in the recent announcement to tackle antisocial behaviour on transport, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/news\/share-the-journey-not-the-noise-government-launches-measures-to-prevent-noise-and-antisocial-behaviour-on-transport\">&pound;100 fines on buses and a crackdown on loud music on trains<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"For too long potholes have been a source of national embarrassment, forcing hard-working people to fork out for repairs and posing a danger to all road users. But today&rsquo;s figures show that we are starting to turn a corner.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"While we know there is much more to do, our record funding, combined with tough new rules holding councils to account, mean that drivers are making smoother journeys while giving people roads they can rely on.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The reports councils submitted to the government show that 94% of councils will complete preventative roadworks this year, stopping the same part of road being patched over and over again, and stamping out potholes before they have the chance to form in the first place.<\/p>\r\n<p>It shows councils are doing more preventative works than last year, where only 76% did this work, showing that councils are changing behaviour as a result of clear direction from government, record funding and strict monitoring &ndash; meaning more money stays in the pocket of drivers.<\/p>\r\n<p>Meanwhile additional figures released last week show local road conditions improved in the year ending March 2026, with less minor roads needing maintenance as a result of works last year.<\/p>\r\n<p>Dan Joyce, Operations Director at Kwik Fit, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Kwik Fit teams across the country have been repairing damage from potholes all too often, with tyres, wheels and suspension components most frequently suffering from the impact. Potholes not only cause costly damage, they can also present a significant risk to road safety.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We welcome this increased investment, especially the additional focus on proactive maintenance as this helps prevent potholes before they become a danger to road users, or a drain on drivers&rsquo; wallets.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>RAC head of policy Simon Williams said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This data is encouraging. It&rsquo;s good to see so many miles of road being resurfaced, but it&rsquo;s also positive that the preventative maintenance message has got through as we&rsquo;ve long argued that councils need to take steps to stop potholes appearing in the first place, and not just patch them up. Surface dressing, if done properly, is a very cost effective way of improving more roads for the long term.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The proof, of course, will be in whether drivers and other road users notice the difference. Getting the country&rsquo;s roads up to a decent standard, and keeping them there, isn&rsquo;t an overnight job. But at least we&rsquo;re now on the right track.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-transport\">Department for Transport<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/heidi-alexander\">The Rt Hon Heidi Alexander MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">World-first taskforce to protect communities from climate change<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Communities across the UK will be better protected against the growing threats of climate change and nature loss\r\n\r\n\r\nGovernment holds&amp;nbsp;a world-first&amp;nbsp;Climate and Nature Security Taskforce meeting to better prepare for the impacts of climate change and nature loss\r\nLeading experts from acros...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Communities across the UK will be better protected against the growing threats of climate change and nature loss<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8d7e15eadc3d6e8a10972\/s300_CLIMATE_TASKFORCE-GOVUK.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Government holds&nbsp;a world-first&nbsp;Climate and Nature Security Taskforce meeting to better prepare for the impacts of climate change and nature loss<\/li>\r\n<li>Leading experts from across security, military, academia and industry join forces to assess risks and find solutions to the climate and nature threats to national security &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Following the UK&rsquo;s hottest summer on record, and the world bracing for the impacts of a super El Ni&ntilde;o, government&nbsp;takes action to protect communities and families<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Communities across the UK will be better protected against the growing threats of climate change, as the world&rsquo;s first Climate and Nature Security Taskforce met for the first time this week.<\/p>\r\n<p>The taskforce will make independent recommendations to help shape government&rsquo;s approach to tackling national and international climate security challenges, and to help ensure Britain can best prepare itself for the climate crisis.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Minister for Climate Transition, Katie White, will chair the inaugural meeting, alongside Baroness Fiona Twycross. The taskforce&nbsp;brings together experts from across the fields of climate, nature and security to assess the UK&rsquo;s readiness for security challenges created by climate change and nature loss &ndash; including General Richard Nugee, Comfort Ero, President of the International Crisis Group and Rosie Hails, Director of Science for the National Trust. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The taskforce will establish the most significant climate and nature security risks facing the UK and define a clear vision for a more climate- and nature-secure UK. &nbsp;This comes as the UK has experienced&nbsp;a series of extreme weather events over the past year, including record-breaking heatwaves, severe drought conditions, wildfires and rising flood risks.<\/p>\r\n<p>Minister for Climate Transition, Katie White, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This summer, we saw homes destroyed, families evacuated and huge stretches of our British countryside scorched by wildfires. Climate change isn&rsquo;t some distant problem to worry about tomorrow, it&rsquo;s happening right now.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"National security starts at home, protecting the people and places we love. That&rsquo;s why our new taskforce brings together some of Britain&rsquo;s best minds, from military leaders to climate scientists and security experts, to get ahead of these threats, take greater control of our future and make Britain stronger, safer and ready for whatever comes next.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>General Richard Nugee said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The ministerial taskforce is a significant step forward. It offers the opportunity for real change to be proposed and delivered to ensure that this country is more resilient to the shocks from nature loss and climate change that are likely to occur in the future.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Erin Sikorsky, Director at the Centre for Climate Risks and Security, said:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This summer&rsquo;s heatwaves and wildfires made clear that climate change is already a security problem. The question now is how to prepare, prevent, and adapt going forward. I commend the UK government for taking that question seriously, and I&rsquo;m honoured to join the taskforce to identify recommendations for the climate resilience and security investments the UK and its partners need.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The impacts of climate change stretch to almost every corner of Britain&rsquo;s way of life &ndash; from migration to energy systems, supply chains and financial stability &ndash; and this taskforce will boost the UK&rsquo;s preparedness for these security challenges.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The taskforce &ndash; formally titled the National Security and Resilience Risks of a Changing Climate and Nature Loss Taskforce &ndash; has a clear set of objectives:&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>identify key gaps and help prioritise the most significant climate- and nature-related risks to UK national and international security and resilience, ensuring existing evidence is translated into clear, actionable policy priorities<\/li>\r\n<li>review and challenge work on security and resilience in response to global climate change impacts and nature loss and make recommendations to improve the UK&rsquo;s preparedness and response to these threats<\/li>\r\n<li>identify and recommend opportunities and areas of focus&nbsp;in addressing climate and nature-related security risks, including where the UK can strengthen resilience, secure advantage and shape outcomes internationally<\/li>\r\n<li>support the development of an actionable UK approach to climate and nature security by clearly defining gaps and opportunities and providing recommendations to enhance preparedness, resilience and international influence<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-energy-security-and-net-zero\">Department for Energy Security and Net Zero<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/katie-white\">Katie White OBE MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/baroness-twycross\">Baroness Twycross<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Simon Ridley Appointed as new Department for Education Permanent Secretary<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Simon Ridley appointed as current Permanent Secretary, Susan Acland-Hood, leaves for new role\r\n\r\nThe Cabinet Secretary, with the approval of the Prime Minister, has appointed Simon Ridley as the new Permanent Secretary, Department for Education (DfE), succeeding Susan Acland-Hood who is taking up a ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Simon Ridley appointed as current Permanent Secretary, Susan Acland-Hood, leaves for new role<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37da9ded915d5a5f965f9c\/s300_cabinet-office.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>The Cabinet Secretary, with the approval of the Prime Minister, has appointed Simon Ridley as the new Permanent Secretary, Department for Education (DfE), succeeding Susan Acland-Hood who is taking up a new role outside government.<\/p>\r\n<p>Simon is currently the Second Permanent Secretary at the Home Office. He has previously been the acting Permanent Secretary at the Home Office on two occasions, and head of the Cabinet Office COVID-19 Taskforce.<\/p>\r\n<p>Secretary of State for Education, Lucy Powell, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I want to thank Susan Acland-Hood for her leadership of the department.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Susan has been an exceptional Permanent Secretary and public servant - helping children and families recover from the pandemic, expanding childcare provision, strengthening the skills system and so much more.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This government is determined to make sure that every child, whatever their background, can achieve and succeed. I look forward to working with Simon, who brings a breadth of experience and track record of delivery, to drive forward this work.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Cabinet Secretary, Dame Antonia Romeo, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I am delighted to announce Simon&rsquo;s appointment as Permanent Secretary for DfE. Simon has an impressive track record at the Home Office, the Cabinet Office, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and HM Treasury. The breadth of his experience and leadership make him very well placed to lead the DfE and its crucial agenda.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I would like to thank Susan Acland-Hood for her excellent leadership of the department since 2020, for her strong leadership of the Policy Profession across the whole Civil Service, and for 27 years of impressive public service. Susan has been instrumental in leading and strengthening England&rsquo;s education system, and made a very significant contribution to the Civil Service in her six years as a Permanent Secretary. I wish her well in her new role.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Permanent Secretary, Susan Acland-Hood, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"It has been a privilege to lead the Department for Education for the last six years. I am immensely proud of the work we have done together to take our system ever closer to being the best in the world, through evidence-based policy, disciplined, determined delivery, and wide and deep partnership. My colleagues in the Department are remarkable, and I know how brilliantly they will carry on this work of restless improvement, change and growth across education and children&rsquo;s social care under Simon&rsquo;s excellent leadership, as I move to my new role.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I want to thank all those who get up every morning and put children and learners first &ndash; social workers, early educators, teaching assistants, teachers, headteachers, lecturers, College and Trust leaders, local authority and regional leaders, governors, volunteers and so many more. You, like the extraordinary young people of this country, are always an inspiration.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Simon Ridley said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I am thrilled to be appointed Permanent Secretary at the Department for Education. There is nothing more important than making sure every child and young person has the best start in life and every opportunity to succeed.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I am looking forward to working with all the brilliant people in the department, and leaders and practitioners throughout the country, to deliver the Secretary of State&rsquo;s ambitious agenda.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I would like to thank everyone at the Home Office for all they do to make the UK safe and secure.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>This appointment follows a managed move process approved by the Prime Minister and the Education Secretary, in consultation with the First Civil Service Commissioner.<\/p>\r\n<p>Simon will start as DfE Permanent Secretary in November.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/cabinet-office\">Cabinet Office<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-education\">Department for Education<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/home-office\">Home Office<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">SLC pays \u00a35.7billion in student finance at the start of the 26\/27 academic year<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The Student Loans Company (SLC) has paid &amp;pound;5.7bn in first term Maintenance and Tuition Fee Loan payments\r\n\r\nSLC plays a critical role in enabling opportunity through the effective and efficient administration of the student finance system.\r\nAs students settle into the new academic year we have ...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The Student Loans Company (SLC) has paid &pound;5.7bn in first term Maintenance and Tuition Fee Loan payments<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad8c24e5eadc3d6e8a1095e\/s300_First_Term_Student_Payments_26-27_2.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>SLC plays a critical role in enabling opportunity through the effective and efficient administration of the student finance system.<\/p>\r\n<p>As students settle into the new academic year we have reached an important milestone, in our delivery of first term maintenance loan payments to students and tuition fee payments to providers on their behalf.<\/p>\r\n<p>We have now paid 5.7bn in student finance funding this academic year, including &pound;3bn in maintenance loans paid directly to students in September and a further &pound;2.7bn in tuition fee payments released to education providers this month.<\/p>\r\n<p>With the majority of first term payments now made we continue to support those customers who applied after the deadline and may have received a minimum level of student finance.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Where a student applied late for funding, we awarded the minimum maintenance loan and their tuition fee loan to ensure they had funding to start their term, their remaining funding is paid to them as a top-up payment once all necessary application details are confirmed. Applications can take up to four weeks to process, so we do encourage students to apply as early as possible.<\/p>\r\n<p>Students starting courses on or after 1 January will apply for student finance through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/student-finance-on-or-after-1-january-2027\">Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE)<\/a> funding. Applications will open for LLE by the end of October 2026.<\/p>\r\n<p>*Please note these are provisional figures. Full year figures are published in our Student Support for Higher Education statistical release which will be published on 26 November 2026.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/student-loans-company\">Student Loans Company<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 22 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">\u00a316 billion productivity boost delivers better value and better services for taxpayers<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">&amp;pound;16 billion in efficiency and savings were delivered last year as government departments significantly outperformed their efficiency target\r\n\r\n\r\n&amp;pound;16 billion productivity boost delivering better value and better services for taxpayers.&amp;nbsp;\r\nHarnessing AI and new technology is already he...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">&pound;16 billion in efficiency and savings were delivered last year as government departments significantly outperformed their efficiency target<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37db09e5274a79051c9235\/s300_HMT_buiding_plaque.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>&pound;16 billion productivity boost delivering better value and better services for taxpayers.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Harnessing AI and new technology is already helping millions more NHS patients get faster diagnoses and freeing up teachers to spend more time teaching.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>This drive to make public money work harder comes a week after the IMF praised the UK&rsquo;s fiscal discipline and forecast the UK will have the lowest deficit in the G7 by 2029.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>&pound;16 billion in efficiency and savings were delivered last year as government departments significantly outperformed their efficiency target. This is equivalent to 4.1% of day-to-day spending.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The NHS was a key driver through service redesign and digital transformation. This includes new AI chest X-ray analysis supporting faster diagnoses for more than four million patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Efficiencies have also been delivered by other major departments. For example, DfE&rsquo;s AI lesson-planning tool is saving teachers an average of around three hours a week, and the &lsquo;Ask HMRC&rsquo; digital assistant is helping to handle a record 6.3 million interactions in 2024\/25, freeing up around 400 staff for more complex work.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Today&rsquo;s announcement is proof that departments can deliver better bang for taxpayers&rsquo; buck while improving public services. It comes after the Prime Minister and Chancellor wrote to Cabinet to be clear that they will need to reprioritise spending within their budgets to deliver the greatest impact for families and businesses.<\/p>\r\n<p>Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey MP said:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Giving families and businesses a bit of breathing space is only possible if we have strong public finances.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"A central part of that is making sure we are a government that spends every pound with purpose.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\"And alongside this we are getting our deficit down, backed by the IMF who have forecast ours to be the lowest in the G7 by 2029.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"At my first Budget on 28 October, I will build on this work so we can provide breathing space for today, and hope for the future.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>At the IMF the Chancellor reiterated that building resilience is essential for providing breathing space today and making the long-term changes our country needs. This is why the government is sticking to its fiscal rules.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>With global borrowing costs rising, it is essential that we remain committed to fiscal stability. The IMF has been clear that the UK&rsquo;s deficit reduction plan stands out and should stay the course as borrowing is forecast to fall to the lowest levels in the G7 by 2029.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-treasury\">HM Treasury<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/john-healey\">The Rt Hon John Healey MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Test, Learn and Grow: One-year-on<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Local leaders supported to drive change in their communities and improve public services with the launch of a new playbook to support decentralisation\r\n\r\n\r\nLocal government playbook written to support Prime Minister&amp;rsquo;s aim to take power out of Whitehall.&amp;nbsp;\r\nLaunched today, the playbook is a...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Local leaders supported to drive change in their communities and improve public services with the launch of a new playbook to support decentralisation<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5a37da9ded915d5a5f965f9c\/s300_cabinet-office.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Local government playbook written to support Prime Minister&rsquo;s aim to take power out of Whitehall.&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Launched today, the playbook is a practical guide which local leaders can use to design and deliver better public services.<\/li>\r\n<li>The Playbook launch is marked by an anniversary event in Sheffield celebrating the success of the Test, Learn and Grow programme.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Local leaders supported to drive change in their communities and improve public services with the launch of a new playbook to support decentralisation.<\/p>\r\n<p>Upon taking office, the Prime Minister promised a clear break from centralisation, pledging to shift power away from Westminster and return decision-making to the people and communities where they live and work.<\/p>\r\n<p>Launched today, the Playbook has been developed by the Test, Learn and Grow programme to help central and local government design public services to better meet the needs of local communities.<\/p>\r\n<p>The programme works directly with local partners to design and deliver better public services. For example, Test, Learn and Grow supported Liverpool City Council to take a data-led, strategic approach to temporary accommodation for people experiencing homelessness. Improving the use and quality of data led to nightly temporary accommodation costs dropping by 30%, saving &pound;6 million.<\/p>\r\n<p>Cabinet Office Minister, Sally Jameson MP, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"The Prime Minister promised to take power away from Westminster and return decision making to communities.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We know local leaders are best placed to integrate public services and respond to the needs of their residents, which is why we must empower them to set the policies that work for their areas.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"That is why I am so pleased to announce this Playbook that will help places adopt regionalised ways of working and further kickstart the biggest transition of power out of Whitehall.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Cllr Fran Belbin, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"There is so much good work that takes place across the city every single day to help and support children from less advantaged backgrounds to help them achieve everything they want to.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We are delighted that so much of this work has been able to be showcased on a national platform through the Test, Learn &amp; Grow pilot projects over the past 12 months. We look forward to this continuing over the next year and showing the country the fantastic work taking place right here.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>To mark the launch of the Playbook, Minister Sally Jameson delivered a keynote address at the Sheffield event, highlighting examples of the programme&rsquo;s work at the Sheffield event, highlighting examples of the programme&rsquo;s work.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Playbook enables central, regional, and local government teams to adopt a similar test and learn approach. By starting small, adapting quickly, sharing learning and working directly with places as equal partners, it aims to improve public services from the ground up.<\/p>\r\n<p>Test, Learn and Grow (TLG) is a three-year UK public service reform programme testing new ways of designing and delivering public services that are closer to the people using them. It sits at the heart of the Government&rsquo;s ambition to rewire the state: so that local leaders and services closest to the problem can join up and design solutions for and specific to the needs of the communities they serve.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Launched in 2025 across ten local authority partners, the programme is tackling six core policy challenges - from improving employment outcomes for young people to reducing violence against women and girls.<\/p>\r\n<p>The publication of the Playbook will be marked by a &lsquo;Test, Learn and Grow&rsquo; one-year-on celebration event in Sheffield, hosted jointly by the Cabinet Office, Sheffield City Council and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/cabinet-office\">Cabinet Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/sally-jameson\">Sally Jameson MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism: final report<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Final report detailing the findings of the independent review into the prevalence and support for mental health conditions, ADHD and autism\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nIndependent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism: executive summary\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nIndependent review into mental health cond...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Final report detailing the findings of the independent review into the prevalence and support for mental health conditions, ADHD and autism<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/independent-review-into-mental-health-conditions-adhd-and-autism-final-report\/independent-review-into-mental-health-conditions-adhd-and-autism-executive-summary\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/independent-review-into-mental-health-conditions-adhd-and-autism-final-report\/independent-review-into-mental-health-conditions-adhd-and-autism-executive-summary\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism: executive summary<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad730112b09b7fc6b7cd7c2\/independent-review-into-prevalence-and-support-for-mental-health-conditions-ADHD-and-autism.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad730112b09b7fc6b7cd7c2\/independent-review-into-prevalence-and-support-for-mental-health-conditions-ADHD-and-autism.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism: final report<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 9.53 MB, 599 pages<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ac7596ce8ef5609e7c9335d\/technical-annex-independent-review-into-mental-health-conditions-ADHD-and-autism.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Technical annex for the independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 5.09 MB, 230 pages<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This final report sets out the findings and recommendations of the independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism, including:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>changes in prevalence, need and demand, and what is influencing them<\/li>\r\n<li>the benefits and risks of diagnosis, and how support could be better matched to need<\/li>\r\n<li>how well current services respond, including waiting times, inequalities and gaps in support<\/li>\r\n<li>recommendations for prevention, earlier support, improved care and long-term reform<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The final report is also available in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/looking-into-mental-health-conditions-adhd-and-autism-final-report-easy-read\">an easy read version<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Social housing Right to Manage review<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Findings from the government&amp;rsquo;s review of the Right to Manage framework for social housing\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nApplies to England\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nSocial housing Right to Manage review\r\nHTML\r\nDetails\r\nThe Right to Manage gives council tenants a statutory right to take responsibility for housing management s...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Findings from the government&rsquo;s review of the Right to Manage framework for social housing<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"govuk-heading-s govuk-!-margin-bottom-0\">Applies to England<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/social-housing-right-to-manage-review\/social-housing-right-to-manage-review\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/social-housing-right-to-manage-review\/social-housing-right-to-manage-review\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Social housing Right to Manage review<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\"><br \/>Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Right to Manage gives council tenants a statutory right to take responsibility for housing management services through a tenant management organisation.<\/p>\r\n<p>This document summarises the findings of the government&rsquo;s review of the Right to Manage framework, which ran from January to June 2026. The review found that the Right to Manage remains an important route for resident control and empowerment, but that the current framework needs modernising.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government is bringing forward reforms to make it easier for residents to take up the Right to Manage and to improve support, oversight and accountability.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Cosmetic cowboys crackdown continues with new restrictions<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The governments crackdown on cosmetic cowboys intensifies with restrictions on high-risk procedures\r\n\r\n\r\nNew rules to ensure cosmetic procedures &amp;ndash; including liquid Brazilian Butt Lifts, vampire facials and chemical peels &amp;ndash; to be carried out by specific healthcare experts only\r\nCosmetic s...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The governments crackdown on cosmetic cowboys intensifies with restrictions on high-risk procedures<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/62750817e90e070dbf5acad5\/s300_DHSC_plaque.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>New rules to ensure cosmetic procedures &ndash; including liquid Brazilian Butt Lifts, vampire facials and chemical peels &ndash; to be carried out by specific healthcare experts only<\/li>\r\n<li>Cosmetic surgery and other high-risk procedures banned for under-18s&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<li>Anyone who breaks these rules could be hit with a hefty unlimited fine&nbsp;<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>The crackdown on cosmetic cowboys intensifies this week as the government announces new restrictions on cosmetic procedures, including liquid Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs), vampire facials and chemical peels, to qualified healthcare experts only.<\/p>\r\n<p>Under the new rules, anyone carrying out the highest-risk cosmetic procedures, will need to be a qualified, trained and regulated professional, giving people confidence they&rsquo;re in safe hands.<\/p>\r\n<p>Fillers injected into parts of the body other than the face, including liquid BBLs, would be legally defined as cosmetic surgical procedures, meaning only doctors could perform them.<\/p>\r\n<p>High-risk non-surgical or wellbeing treatments, including deep chemical peels, vampire facials, dermal micro-coring and some laser procedures would be restricted to doctors, dentists and some nurses, midwives and pharmacists*.<\/p>\r\n<p>With surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures becoming increasingly blurred, the new rules will also close a dangerous loophole that has seen ill-qualified practitioners working out of hotel rooms performing high risk procedures without regulatory oversight.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Rogue providers who flout the proposals could be put before the courts under tough new criminal offences. Breaking the rules could see providers being hit with unlimited fines, or fixed penalties up to &pound;4,000.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Health Minister Karin Smyth said:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"If you&rsquo;re planning to undergo a major cosmetic procedure, you deserve to know you&rsquo;re in safe hands &ndash; not risking your life with a rogue operator.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"These changes mean that only properly trained professionals can carry out the most serious, high-risk procedures, and that young people will be shielded from treatments that can go badly wrong.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We want to drive cosmetic cowboys out of the market and raise standards across the board, giving reputable businesses a fair chance to thrive by helping people identify safe, qualified providers they can trust.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Victoria Brownlie MBE, Chief Policy &amp; Sustainability Officer at the British Beauty Council, said: &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Over a number of years, the line between a beauty treatment and a medical procedure has blurred. A lack of regulation in what has become a booming market has led to an exploitation of these gaps, placing members of the public at serious risk.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"I believe this is a vital step toward the required regulation and commend the Government for tackling this issue head-on. Their assurance that a licensing scheme for &ldquo;lower risk&rdquo; treatments will follow is also much welcomed as a vital turning point to ensure the highest standards of competence and care across the beauty and aesthetics sector.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Ashton Collins, Director of Save Face:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We welcome this vital step towards protecting the public from the harm we have seen in recent years.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">For too long, non-healthcare practitioners have exploited a regulatory loophole to carry out high-risk procedures, including liquid BBLs and facelifts, on members of the public. This has led to serious and life-threatening complications, including the death of Alice Webb, and victims have been left without justice.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Save Face has campaigned for tougher rules since 2023, so that those who flout them are held accountable. This consultation gives the public, practitioners, and experts the chance to help shape the final framework. We urge everyone to respond, and we look forward to the legislation being brought before Parliament so that it can be enacted as soon as possible to prevent further harm.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Dr Leah Totton, cosmetic doctor, said:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"These proposed regulations are a welcome and long-overdue step towards protecting the public and safeguarding patients, particularly those under 18, who are a vulnerable group. Cosmetic treatments are medical treatments and things can, and do, go wrong, Patients deserve to know that the practitioner treating them is appropriately qualified.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"High-risk cosmetic procedures should only be carried out by appropriately qualified and trained healthcare professionals. Medical practitioners have been calling for stronger regulation for years, and I hope these proposals mark a turning point in raising standards, protecting patients and restoring confidence in our industry.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>New rules would stop under-18s having risky cosmetic or wellbeing treatments, while fillers are already restricted for kids under a separate law.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government is launching a consultation to ask clinicians, regulators, businesses, the public and other experts for their say on the draft regulations before plans go through the parliamentary process, which is currently planned for spring 2027.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Separate to the consultation, the government remains committed to implementing a licensing scheme to ensure that clinics delivering botulinum toxin products (more commonly known as Botox), lip filler and other lower-risk treatments meet strict safety standards, putting an end to backyard Botox clinics.<\/p>\r\n<p>The new crackdown follows a string of reports of rogue, unregulated surgeries and procedures being carried out by unqualified practitioners, putting patients at serious risk of harm or even death.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-of-health-and-social-care\">Department of Health and Social Care<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/karin-smyth\">Karin Smyth MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Jackdaw gas field gets green light<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Energy Secretary green lights Jackdaw gas field, as Chancellor announces new Energy Wealth Fund\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Energy Secretary has agreed that the regulator can grant consent for gas to be produced at the licensed Jackdaw field.\r\nThe project will start to supply gas to British homes and businesses from a...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Energy Secretary green lights Jackdaw gas field, as Chancellor announces new Energy Wealth Fund<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad852a2e19609e5aea10860\/s300_GFX2610-304-JULIET-govuk-02.png\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The Energy Secretary has agreed that the regulator can grant consent for gas to be produced at the licensed Jackdaw field.<\/li>\r\n<li>The project will start to supply gas to British homes and businesses from as early as the end of this month, helping heat millions of homes and protecting hundreds of jobs.<\/li>\r\n<li>New Energy Wealth Fund to be established by the Chancellor with a &pound;2 billion downpayment to reinvest oil and gas revenues into the climate transition.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Jackdaw will start to supply gas to British homes and businesses from the end of this month, after the Energy Secretary agreed that the regulator can grant consent for gas to be produced at the field.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The Jackdaw decision is expected to increase domestic gas production by around 6% at its peak &ndash; supporting the UK&rsquo;s gas supply over its lifespan of up to 11 years, boosting our energy security, protecting hundreds of jobs and adding an estimated &pound;2.9 billion to the UK economy.<\/p>\r\n<p>Recent events in the Middle East have triggered global energy shocks and pushed up bills for families across the country. At a time of global instability, homegrown energy can be a source of national strength.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Chancellor is also announcing today the establishment of a new Energy Wealth Fund, which will use tax revenues from North Sea oil and gas to invest in renewable and low carbon energy projects and support the green transition.&nbsp; Reflecting our commitment to the North Sea, this will start with an initial &pound;2 billion injection of funding, with future revenues from the North Sea flowing into the fund over time.<\/p>\r\n<p>The announcement comes ahead of the Budget, which will set out the government&rsquo;s plan to deliver good growth in every postcode. By reinvesting Britain&rsquo;s energy wealth in renewable and low carbon energy infrastructure, the Fund will unlock investment, back the industries of the future and create skilled jobs across Scotland and the UK.<\/p>\r\n<p>This investment in renewable energy will substantially delink gas and electricity by the end of this Parliament. By investing in and building more renewable and low carbon power, gas will set the price of electricity less often, helping end Britain&rsquo;s exposure to volatile international gas markets and help get bills down for good in the long term.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Energy Secretary assessed among other points, that the Jackdaw project will not prevent the UK from being able to meet its legally binding limits on carbon emissions and achieve net-zero by 2050.<\/p>\r\n<p>The heatwaves and extreme weather events experienced this year highlighted the importance of tackling the climate crisis. The Government remains committed to the green transition and net zero &ndash; moving away from fossil fuels and towards renewable and nuclear energy. But even on the path to net zero, the UK will still require oil and gas as part of our energy needs for decades to come. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The decision is consistent with the government&rsquo;s manifesto commitment not to issue any new licences to explore new fields while managing existing fields for the entirety of their lifespan. The Jackdaw gas field is already licensed and the North Sea Transition Authority&rsquo;s decision to grant consent now gives the developer the green light to begin operations at the field.<\/p>\r\n<p>It follows the Supreme Court&rsquo;s ruling on the Finch case in 2024, which means North Sea operators are now required to consider the\u202fimpact of burning the extracted oil and gas in environmental impact assessments. This meant the Energy Secretary had to consider a new environmental framework alongside all relevant factors in the case, including responses to the public consultation.\u202f<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Following careful consideration of all relevant factors I have agreed that the regulator can grant consent for gas to be produced at Jackdaw, which will begin to supply the UK with gas from this winter thanks to the highly skilled and vital North Sea workers.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This decision will support the country&rsquo;s energy security with homegrown gas this winter and help minimise the UK&rsquo;s use of imported higher emission fuels as we continue our transition to renewables and nuclear.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The decision is compatible with our legally binding climate commitments, and we remain resolute in ending new licences for oil and gas and achieving net zero by 2050.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I welcome the Energy Secretary&rsquo;s decision, which will protect hundreds of jobs and help keep millions of homes warm this winter. At a time when people are really struggling, it&rsquo;s right that we look in a responsible way at maximising the existing energy reserves we have in Britain that could help.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We&rsquo;re committed to moving towards renewable energy and reaching net zero by 2050.\u202fBut even on our ambitious climate path, we&rsquo;ll still require oil and gas as part of our energy needs for decades to come. That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re taking a pragmatic approach to the North Sea. We&rsquo;re also establishing a new &nbsp;Energy Wealth Fund to invest in renewable energy, support the green transition and help reduce energy bills over the long-term.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Our approach will ensure we can boost our energy security, back British workers, ringfence future North Sea proceeds to speed up the green transition, hit our ambitious climate targets and - crucially - bring down bills.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"I want Britain&rsquo;s energy wealth to spark a new wave of clean power to work for the British people.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Since North Sea gas and oil were discovered decades ago, the benefit of our existing nation&rsquo;s natural resources have not been turned into the long-term investment our country needs.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Through our new Energy Wealth Fund, we will invest in the clean energy industries of the future, creating jobs, driving growth and strengthening Britain&rsquo;s energy security.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This decision to approve Jackdaw is a win for Aberdeen, a win for Scottish workers and a win for Britain&rsquo;s energy security. The North East has helped power the country for half a century, and will continue to do so for decades to come.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This will harness the homegrown skills and assets we have in Scotland and right across the UK in a boost for the economy, as we continue to invest in and grow clean energy resources, and work towards the transition.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Stuart Payne, Chief Executive of the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"After robust scrutiny we have today granted consent for the Jackdaw Field development which allows the owners to proceed with their project and produce gas from the field upon completion of development work.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"This project will support the UK&rsquo;s energy security by providing domestically produced gas, generate tax revenues, safeguard supply chain jobs, use existing infrastructure, and have an emissions intensity well below the UK average.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The Energy Wealth Fund will support investment in the renewable and low carbon energy industries that will power Britain&rsquo;s future. It will help ensure more value from Britain&rsquo;s energy resources is invested for the long term, supporting the green transition and creating a lasting national asset for future generations.<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside supporting the North Sea oil and gas sector, the government will continue to invest in the new energy industries that will support Scotland&rsquo;s long-term jobs and prosperity. Since 2024, the UK has seen more than &pound;100 billion of investment in renewable and low carbon energy. &nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>\u202fMost recently, Sumitomo announced the opening of a &pound;350 million into a cable factory at the Port of Nigg earlier this week. And SSE yesterday confirmed that 400 skilled jobs will be supported across Scotland through its new supply chain contracts for the Berwick Bank B offshore wind farm.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government is taking a pragmatic approach to the North Sea that will support existing oil and gas production and back the highly skilled workforce as opportunities grow in renewables and wider sectors.<\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/news\/north-sea-future-plan-for-fair-managed-and-prosperous-transition\">As announced last year<\/a>, new Transitional Energy Certificates will allow for some oil and gas production in already-explored areas that are near licensed fields, linked via a tieback &ndash; ensuring existing fields can remain economically viable.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government has therefore confirmed today that it is asking the regulator to consider urgent cases that could benefit from similar measures now, before legislation on these new certificates is in place. This will ensure the sector can support existing oil and gas fields, while still preventing exploration in new unlicensed areas.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>It comes as discussions with industry leaders begin on a refresh of the North Sea Transition Deal to ensure domestic oil and gas production continues to benefit the UK and build the energy industries of the future. First agreed in 2021, the deal aims to provide a clear path for the industry to support the UK in reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, while protecting jobs and supporting energy security.<\/p>\r\n<p>The changing nature of the North Sea basin also opens up new opportunities to expand the UK&rsquo;s decommissioning sector &ndash; which is expected to support up to 25,000 skilled jobs over the next decade and attract up to &pound;25.6 billion in investment, according to independent analysis.<\/p>\r\n<p>To help unlock this potential, the government has launched a consultation on new guidance to support decommissioning of complex infrastructure. The government has also formally asked Shell to submit their Brent decommissioning programme for the Energy Secretary to consider, with the aim to unblock a longstanding decision process that has been under review since 2017.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-energy-security-and-net-zero\">Department for Energy Security and Net Zero<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-treasury\">HM Treasury<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/north-sea-transition-authority\">North Sea Transition Authority<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/john-healey\">The Rt Hon John Healey MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/miatta-fahnbulleh\">The Rt Hon Miatta Fahnbulleh MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">10,000 young people to get foot in the door of Britain&#039;s tech sector as work placements rolled out across the country<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">10,000 young people will get the chance to get experience under their belt, build up their CVs, and get their foot in the door of Britain&#039;s digital and tech sector\r\nMinister Foxcroft meets with young people attending a careers fair\r\n\r\nYoung people looking for their first job will benefit from 10,000...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">10,000 young people will get the chance to get experience under their belt, build up their CVs, and get their foot in the door of Britain's digital and tech sector<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad793b0e19609e5aea10847\/s300_55601788245_2dd35123c5_o.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><br \/>Minister Foxcroft meets with young people attending a careers fair<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Young people looking for their first job will benefit from 10,000 new work experience placements to open doors into the UK&rsquo;s digital and tech sector<\/li>\r\n<li>All secondary schools are now able to access government programme TechFirst, with an ambition to reach 1 million students by 2028 - a year earlier than planned - including 400,000 from the most disadvantaged schools<\/li>\r\n<li>The rollout builds on the PM&rsquo;s call to arms to employers to provide an additional 200,000 work experience placements to ensure all young people have vital exposure to the workplace between 14 and 16<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>10,000 young people will get the chance to get experience under their belt, build up their CVs, and get their foot in the door of Britain&rsquo;s digital and tech sector.<\/p>\r\n<p>With nearly 1 million young people not in employment, education or training, Britain faces a generational challenge, requiring a generational shake up in how young people get the right skills and experience. That means creating more choices, more chances and more pathways for young people to chart their course from learning to earning.<\/p>\r\n<p>Some of Britain&rsquo;s key tech employers, including&nbsp;Microsoft, Cisco, IBM, Cognizant, AtkinsR&eacute;alis, Arm, Kainos and QinetiQ, are backing the drive, opening up 10,000 opportunities over the next three years.<\/p>\r\n<p>We are also calling on more employers to join them in offering new roles, with an aim of 20,000 entry-level jobs each year, as part of our mission to give young people in Britain, particularly those not in education, employment or training, a clear line of sight into a job.<\/p>\r\n<p>This comes on top of support for at least 1 million secondary students &ndash; including 400,000 from disadvantaged schools &ndash; to get the skills and opportunities needed to build a future in tech, as government announces the rollout of the TechFirst skills programme across the UK.<\/p>\r\n<p>Secondary students will receive workshops, skills sessions, career talks, industry workplace experiences, tech clubs, inter-school competitions, and access to the digital learning platform <a href=\"https:\/\/adacomputerscience.org\/\" rel=\"external\">Ada Computer Science<\/a> &ndash; giving every UK student the chance to build tech skills that lead to better jobs, higher earnings and brighter futures.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Only last week, the Prime Minister said that the challenges facing young people cannot be solved through traditional welfare reform alone.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Instead, change requires a whole-system approach, working in partnership with mayors, local leaders and employers to create more work opportunities and intervening earlier to tackle the wider systemic reasons young people fall out of education, training and employment in the first place.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Prime Minister also made a call to arms to employers to provide an additional 200,000 work experience placements to ensure all young people have vital exposure to the workplace between 14 and 16. This could include spending time in key sectors including accountancy firms, digital media companies and construction companies. Employers can contact their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.careersandenterprise.co.uk\/careers-hubs\/contact-your-local-careers-hub\" rel=\"external\">local Careers Hubs<\/a> to pledge new work experience placements.<\/p>\r\n<p>Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"It&rsquo;s one of the biggest frustrations when you&rsquo;re starting out. Everyone tells you that you need experience to get a job, but nobody gives you the chance to get that experience in the first place.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Thousands of young people will get the chance to get their foot in the door in one of the UK&rsquo;s biggest growth sectors, build their confidence and skills, and get something meaningful on their CV.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Our job is to back this generation, open those doors and give every young person a fair chance to build a good future for themselves, wherever they come from.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Last week, the Prime Minister also said that the state is not set up to meet the needs of young people today, as they face new challenges in an age of social media and AI, rising costs and a more volatile and uncertain global context. He warned that the longer young people are left adrift from education, employment or training, the more likely they are to become disconnected from society, damaging not only their own prospects but the strength and cohesion of our communities.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Our country is grappling a generational challenge - we cannot and will not let our young people be locked out of the British workforce.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Getting a good job in our thriving digital and tech industry shouldn&rsquo;t be determined by where you live or what school you go to. Talent is everywhere. Opportunity is not.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re making it easier for young people to build the skills and experience that lead to a fulfilling career through our TechFirst youth programme and Digital and Tech Skills Deal. Young people will be able to develop tech skills and gain work experience in the sector while at school, and we&rsquo;re ensuring the industry then leaves its doors open for them when they finish education, with proper job opportunities and career pathways.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"We&rsquo;re wrapping our arms around the next generation, making sure they get the skills and opportunities that match their talent and ambition, helping a whole generation thrive.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>This comes as DCMS publishes the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/digital-and-technologies-jobs-plan\">Digital and Technologies Jobs Plan<\/a>, setting a target of 20,000 entry level jobs a year, aligning Government, industry and education providers to work collaboratively to build the skills and opportunities people will need for the future roles of the UK&rsquo;s digital and tech sector.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The plan includes a new commitment to provide workplace experiences to help open the door to the sector - launching with an initial 10,000 experiences on offer from TechFirst industry partners.<\/p>\r\n<p>Government is now putting the call out to employers across the tech sector to sign up as a <a href=\"https:\/\/forms.cloud.microsoft\/pages\/responsepage.aspx?id=BXCsy8EC60O0l-ZJLRst2BTLXI8pc0pDib41WSlmofhUM0lRMjk1RVhCVk8xVUlTMlozOFkzRTNFNC4u&amp;route=shorturl\" rel=\"external\">Skills Deal partner<\/a> and offer digital and tech work experiences.<\/p>\r\n<p>The publication of the Digital and Technologies Jobs Plan follows the publication of the Professional and Business Services and Construction Jobs Plans on Monday, which marked the start of a week of Jobs Plans, with the Defence Jobs Plan due later this week.<\/p>\r\n<p>Together, these Industrial Strategy Jobs Plans are opening up routes into good jobs while building the skilled workforce Britain needs to grow and reindustrialise. Bringing government and industry together, they will create more apprenticeship, training and vocational opportunities, helping more people access rewarding careers in the sectors that will power future economic growth.<\/p>\r\n<p>The plans are being published ahead of the forthcoming Milburn Review into opportunities for young people and form part of the Modern Industrial Strategy, which is backing the industries where Britain can lead globally while ensuring people across the country benefit from economic growth and industrial renewal.<\/p>\r\n<p>Minister for Skills Baroness Jacqui Smith said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"Every young person deserves the chance to build a career they&rsquo;re proud of, whatever their background and wherever they live.<\/p>\r\n<p>\"TechFirst helps make that possible, giving students the skills, confidence and experience they need to see a future for themselves in the sector.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Alongside our Youth Guarantee, which aims to offer every young person the chance to earn or learn, programmes like this mean that ambition is matched by real opportunity with the right support at the right time.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>The TechFirst programme has been designed for all young people, but will also work to boost skills for underrepresented groups in tech, including women and girls, and young people from disadvantaged areas.<\/p>\r\n<p>This follows the Prime Minister&rsquo;s announcement last week to give young people a direct route into skilled, well-paid rail careers. Great British Railways will open up 600 foundation apprenticeships over the next 4 years for 16 to 21 year olds, offering a chance to earn while they learn in an industry where currently less than 7% of the workforce is under 25.<\/p>\r\n<p>The package also builds on Government work strengthening digital and media literacy across the curriculum to help young people navigate the online world confidently, evaluate information critically and tackle misinformation and disinformation. Alongside this, reforms to computing education, including a new Computing GCSE, will ensure all pupils develop the digital and AI skills needed for future jobs and careers.<\/p>\r\n<p>These are underpinned by wider government action to put technical education on a par with academic learning and ensure more young people have access to high-quality technical education. As well as the UK&rsquo;s world-leading universities, Technical Excellence Colleges, new V Levels, expanded T Levels, and new Vocational GCSEs, all helping arm young people with the skills and confidence for the world of work.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-digital-culture-media-and-sport\">Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-business-innovation-science-and-trade\">Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade<\/a>, <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/andy-burnham\">The Rt Hon Andy Burnham MP<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/lisa-nandy\">The Rt Hon Lisa Nandy MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Drivers to save up to \u00a3300 when installing EV chargers at home, as government slashes unnecessary red tape<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">From today, people no longer need planning permission to install cross-pavement EV chargers\r\n\r\nPeople can now save up to &amp;pound;300 on charging at home without a driveway from today (21 October 2026) as the government has slashed red tape to make it cheaper, easier and quicker to install.\r\nDrivers w...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">From today, people no longer need planning permission to install cross-pavement EV chargers<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad782f86bae3f806ae89e8e\/s300_charging-960.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>People can now save up to &pound;300 on charging at home without a driveway from today (21 October 2026) as the government has slashed red tape to make it cheaper, easier and quicker to install.<\/p>\r\n<p>Drivers will no longer need planning permission to install cross-pavement chargers which run under pavements from people&rsquo;s homes to their cars. This will save drivers up to &pound;300 on installation and open up home charging for as little as 2p per mile. This is all part of the government&rsquo;s bid to deliver &lsquo;everyday fixes&rsquo; that help people with the cost of living.<\/p>\r\n<p>It comes as September 2026 saw another record-breaking month for UK electric car sales &ndash; up 36% in a year, with nearly 100,000 electric cars sold in a single month alone. Sales have been boosted by the government&rsquo;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/zero-emission-vehicle-grants\/cars\">Electric Car Grant (ECG)<\/a>, which has now helped over 190,000 drivers&nbsp;save up to &pound;3,750 off a new electric vehicle (EV).<\/p>\r\n<p>Buses and Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"We&rsquo;re saving drivers up to &pound;300 off the cost of installing home charging by cutting unnecessary red tape.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The EV transition is in full swing &ndash; sales are up 36% on last year and over 190,000 have saved thousands making the switch in the last year alone.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Cross-pavement charging means residents without off-street parking can plug into cheaper domestic electricity prices, helping them access savings of up to &pound;1,750 on running costs.<\/p>\r\n<p>By slashing unnecessary red tape for these home chargers, the government is speeding up installations, putting money back in drivers&rsquo; pockets and revving up the transition to electric.<\/p>\r\n<p>Changes to permitted development rights also mean it will be quicker and cheaper for charge point operators to install larger, higher-powered public EV charging hubs.<\/p>\r\n<p>Vicky Edmonds, CEO of EVA England, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"This might look like a small planning change, but for someone without a driveway, it could make the difference between being able to afford an electric car and ruling one out altogether. Removing the need for planning permission for cross-pavement charging is a really welcome and meaningful step towards a fairer transition.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"Our research found that 60% of petrol and diesel drivers without off-street parking would never consider an EV. Being able to connect a car parked on the street to cheaper home electricity could help change that. It&rsquo;s now up to local authorities and landlords to make these solutions easier to access in practice.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Dickson Abegunde,&nbsp;Director of Strategic Partnerships at Zoopla, said:<\/p>\r\n<p>\"For buyers considering an electric vehicle, access to charging can be an important factor when choosing a home. Zoopla was proud to be the first property website to help buyers discover nearby on-street chargers and search for homes with EV charging facilities.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"last-child\">\"The government&rsquo;s decision to remove planning permission requirements for qualifying cross pavement charging solutions is another welcome step towards making EV ownership more accessible, particularly for households without off-street parking.\"<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside this, the government has launched 2 consultations to make home charging easier and ensure new buildings are equipped with chargers, so people can plug in with ease.<\/p>\r\n<p>Tenants and leaseholders could get a clearer, quicker, and more consistent route to installing a charge point, thanks to clear guidance for landlords on how to handle the process. The government is also considering mandatory requirements for landlords and freeholders to make it harder to refuse renters&rsquo; applications.<\/p>\r\n<p>Building regulations could also be updated to ensure that charge points are installed in new and refurbished covered car parks.<br \/><br \/><\/p>\r\n<h2 id=\"consultations-on-other-changes-to-home-charging\">Consultations on other changes to home charging<\/h2>\r\n<p>Respond to government consultations by 16 December 2026:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/amending-the-building-regulations-electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure\">amending the building regulations: electric vehicle charging infrastructure<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<li>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/expanding-electric-vehicle-charging-access-for-tenants-and-leaseholders\">expanding electric vehicle charging access for tenants and leaseholders<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/department-for-transport\">Department for Transport<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/simon-lightwood\">Simon Lightwood MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 21 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">MHCLG annual report and accounts 2025 to 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">This annual report sets out the activities of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government over the past year\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nMHCLG annual report and accounts 2025 to 2026\r\nRef: ISBN 978-1-5286-6227-7, HC 484\r\nPDF, 2.42 MB, 200 pages\r\nOrder a copy\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nBuilding Safety Trust S...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">This annual report sets out the activities of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government over the past year<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<br \/><br \/><\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a11e660a6e36813cb43aa\/MHCLG_Annual_Report_and_Accounts_2025-26.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6a5a11e660a6e36813cb43aa\/MHCLG_Annual_Report_and_Accounts_2025-26.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">MHCLG annual report and accounts 2025 to 2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6227-7, HC 484<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 2.42 MB, 200 pages<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\"><a class=\"govuk-link govuk-link--no-visited-state\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/how-to-buy-printed-copies-of-official-documents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Order a copy<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad74a142e7e7b5d32a3c9cc\/MHCLG_Building_Safety_Trust_Statement_2025-26.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Building Safety Trust Statement 2025 to 2026<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6776-0, HC 591<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 343 KB, 38 pages<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\"><a class=\"govuk-link govuk-link--no-visited-state\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/how-to-buy-printed-copies-of-official-documents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Order a copy<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6ad74b589bea51d58eac18a0\/MHCLG_Building_Safety_Trust_Statement_2025-26_-_20PT.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Building Safety Trust Statement 2025 to 2026 (large print)<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6776-0, HC 591<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 376 KB, 64 pages<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\"><a class=\"govuk-link govuk-link--no-visited-state\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/how-to-buy-printed-copies-of-official-documents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Order a copy<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The annual report and accounts for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government provides a comprehensive account of the department and its group&rsquo;s use of resources during the financial year 2025 to 2026, and information about its activities and performance against its objectives.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/ministry-of-housing-communities-local-government\">Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 20 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">UK Covid-19 Inquiry: Care Sector (Module 6) Report<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The UK Covid-19 Inquiry&amp;rsquo;s sixth report examines the impact of the pandemic on the adult social care sector in the four nations of the United Kingdom\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nModule 6 Report - Care Sector\r\nRef: ISBN 978-1-5286-6767-8, E03664076 10\/26 Version 1, HC 645\r\nhttps:\/\/covid19.public-inqu...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The UK Covid-19 Inquiry&rsquo;s sixth report examines the impact of the pandemic on the adult social care sector in the four nations of the United Kingdom<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/documents\/module-6-full-report\/\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/documents\/module-6-full-report\/\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Module 6 Report - Care Sector<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata gem-c-attachment__metadata--compact\">Ref: ISBN 978-1-5286-6767-8, E03664076 10\/26 Version 1, HC 645<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/documents\/module-6-full-report\/<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\"><a class=\"govuk-link govuk-link--no-visited-state\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/how-to-buy-printed-copies-of-official-documents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Order a copy<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/documents\/module-6-in-brief\/\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/documents\/module-6-in-brief\/\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">Module 6 Report In-brief summary - Care Sector<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/documents\/module-6-in-brief\/<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>The UK Covid-19 Inquiry is an independent public inquiry established to examine the UK&rsquo;s response to and impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and to learn lessons for the future. The Inquiry conducted its public hearings for each module between June 2023 and March 2026 and began publishing reports containing findings and recommendations from July 2024.<\/p>\r\n<p>Module 6 examined the impact of the pandemic on the adult social care sector in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The module includes care provided in adult care and residential homes, in people&rsquo;s own homes by professional carers and unpaid care provided by family members or friends. It looks at the decisions made by each nation&rsquo;s government, examines the steps taken in care homes to stop the virus spreading and the care sector&rsquo;s capacity to respond to the pandemic.<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Module 6 Report - Care Sector. Available in English and machine-translated to all other languages on the Inquiry&rsquo;s website.<\/li>\r\n<li>Module 6 Report - &lsquo;In-Brief&rsquo; summary - Care Sector. The &lsquo;In Brief&rsquo; summary is available in English, Welsh, English Easy Read, a video animation and audio only format. It is also machine-translated to all other languages available on the Inquiry&rsquo;s website.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Reports relating to the Inquiry&rsquo;s other Modules will be published until 2027 and details of these can be found here: <a href=\"https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/reports\/\" rel=\"external\">Inquiry Module Reports<\/a>. A full list of the Inquiry&rsquo;s modules and the topics that have been investigated can be found in the <a href=\"https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/structure-of-the-inquiry\/\" rel=\"external\">Structure of the Inquiry<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>For further information, see the Inquiry&rsquo;s <a href=\"https:\/\/covid19.public-inquiry.uk\/documents\/terms-of-reference\/\" rel=\"external\">Terms of Reference<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/cabinet-office\">Cabinet Office<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 20 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">Attorney General&#039;s speech at the London Conference on International Law 2026<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">Full text of the speech given by the Rt Hon Ellie Reeves KC MP at the London Conference on International Law 2026, on 1 October 2026\r\n\r\nThank you for the invitation to speak here today.\r\nThis is my first speech on international law as Attorney General, and I&amp;rsquo;m really glad to be giving it at th...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">Full text of the speech given by the Rt Hon Ellie Reeves KC MP at the London Conference on International Law 2026, on 1 October 2026<br \/><br \/><\/h3>\r\n<p><img class=\"gem-c-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/5cd1619d40f0b6332070f272\/s300_Courts_of_Justice_new.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p>Thank you for the invitation to speak here today.<\/p>\r\n<p>This is my first speech on international law as Attorney General, and I&rsquo;m really glad to be giving it at the London Conference, in front of an audience who understands its importance and has contributed to its development.<\/p>\r\n<p>Today is a day that I will look back on with pride. This morning I was at the Royal Courts of Justice, where I took my oath and was sworn in as Attorney General for England and Wales.<\/p>\r\n<p>Taking part in that ceremony was a reminder of the history and significance of the job. I&rsquo;m joining a long line of Attorneys General who have had to contend with the thorniest issues of their day.<\/p>\r\n<p>Before entering politics, I spent more than a decade as an employment rights lawyer.<\/p>\r\n<p>I represented trade unions and their members, before establishing my own consultancy to support women facing discrimination at work.<\/p>\r\n<p>What that experience taught me is that law does not exist in a vacuum, just as international law is not some abstract concept we can do away with.<\/p>\r\n<p>It determines whether people are treated fairly, whether they can provide for their families, and whether they can assert their rights when things go wrong.<\/p>\r\n<p>Integral to my role as Attorney General is upholding the rule of law within government, including our obligations under international law. This is personal to me.<\/p>\r\n<p>In 2007, and then again in 2012, I visited Colombia and I saw and heard about the grave human rights violations happening there.<\/p>\r\n<p>Those conversations followed me through the doors of Parliament where I continued to advocate and speak up.<\/p>\r\n<p>The experience only continued to strengthen my belief in the importance of standing up for human rights, and my support for international law.<\/p>\r\n<p>But I am concerned in recent years those values and beliefs have come under repeated assault.<\/p>\r\n<p>[Redacted political content]&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>The crises we face are spilling out on multiple fronts, and trust and public confidence in the institutions built to protect ordinary people are eroding. Whether it&rsquo;s the ECHR, NATO or the UN, the rules-based order and international law are under threat.<\/p>\r\n<p>Making the case for international law has never been more important, not least because we can no longer separate events happening around the world from their impact here at home.<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;ve seen it in the closing of the Strait of Hormuz raising prices at the petrol pumps, the ongoing war in Ukraine increasing the cost of the weekly shop, and foreign state-backed cyberattacks disrupting critical care and patient safety in our hospitals.<\/p>\r\n<p>International law determines what happens here, just as much as domestic law does.<\/p>\r\n<p>But it is no secret to anyone here that international law and the rules-based order face real challenges.<\/p>\r\n<p>When international law enters public debate, people often question its relevance in today&rsquo;s world, or even whether they believe in it at all.<\/p>\r\n<p>I think that is an understandable reaction.<\/p>\r\n<p>We have all turned on the news or checked our phones and seen the horrendous suffering in places like Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine.<\/p>\r\n<p>When those responsible for that suffering appear to act with impunity, without fear or accountability, it is natural for people to question what role international law really plays.<\/p>\r\n<p>It is vital that we take that criticism head on. We have to listen. But we also have to make the case for why international law matters, and why people should continue to believe in it.<\/p>\r\n<p>One of the best routes to doing that is not through theory, but through evidence, by making the practical, pragmatic case for how international law affects people&rsquo;s everyday lives.<\/p>\r\n<p>So let me be clear: this government and I are steadfast in our commitment to institutions like the European Convention on Human Rights, the International Court of Justice and the UN, and to the treaties and multilateral agreements that allow people to get on with their everyday lives.<\/p>\r\n<p>That commitment is partly pragmatic. We understand the material benefits of international law, the security it provides, the prosperity it creates.<\/p>\r\n<p>But it is also about our values.<\/p>\r\n<p>When Russia launched its illegal invasion of Ukraine, in flagrant breach of the UN Charter, it was a reminder of what is at stake when international law is cast aside.<\/p>\r\n<p>Our commitment to international law speaks to who we are as a country and the role we want to play in the world, one that stands with Ukraine&rsquo;s inalienable right to sovereignty, not with those who would trample on it.<\/p>\r\n<p>So today, I don&rsquo;t intend to labour the case for international law on principle alone.<\/p>\r\n<p>I think that everyone in this room already agrees with me about why international law matters for its own sake.<\/p>\r\n<p>Instead, I want to speak to its specific practical benefits - and I invite anyone who thinks we can do away with international law &ndash; or that we can discard multilateral frameworks to explain away the practical difference, it makes to millions of people every day.<\/p>\r\n<p>There are four main points I want to speak about today: international law&rsquo;s integral role in our prosperity; in enabling the opportunities people enjoy; in keeping the public safe on our streets; and in protecting individuals from the overreach of the state.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"prosperity\">Prosperity:<\/h3>\r\n<p>I&rsquo;ll begin with prosperity.<\/p>\r\n<p>A few weeks ago, the Bank of England announced a rise of inflation to 3.1%.<\/p>\r\n<p>The government is providing support to alleviate some of the financial pressure, such as cutting VAT on energy bills, but every house across the UK will feel the squeeze in their household budgets.<\/p>\r\n<p>Part of that squeeze can be traced to events happening thousands of miles away.<\/p>\r\n<p>The illegal invasion of Ukraine has thrown energy markets into turmoil, and the price of oil and gas spiked as supply from the region was disrupted.<\/p>\r\n<p>Households up and down this country are feeling that impact directly, in higher petrol prices and in energy bills that pushed inflation to levels not seen in decades.<\/p>\r\n<p>More recently, Iran&rsquo;s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has resulted in a huge number of commercial ships being unable to navigate the Strait and continue their journeys across the globe.<\/p>\r\n<p>Our financial security and prosperity depends on international banking systems, the WTO, and international trade law, but it also depends on multilateral regimes like the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.<\/p>\r\n<p>The closure of the Strait of Hormuz in contravention of international law has resulted in higher oil prices, higher household bills, and higher mortgage rates.<\/p>\r\n<p>UNCLOS is a cornerstone of international commerce. It protects access to vital shipping routes that allow food to reach our supermarket shelves, British manufacturers to export their goods around the world, and the global economy to flourish.<\/p>\r\n<p>Every day more than 400 commercial vessels pass unimpeded through the Dover Strait, exercising their right of transit passage guaranteed under UNCLOS.<\/p>\r\n<p>Before the outbreak of the US-Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait, I imagine few people beyond law of the sea specialists spent much time thinking about that right &ndash; or about the extent to which it also exists in customary international law &ndash; or about whether a state which claims a 12-nautical-mile territorial sea can, at the same time, credibly deny rights of passage through an international strait which forms part of that sea.<\/p>\r\n<p>Of course, many of those specialists are in this room. London remains one of the world&rsquo;s leading centres for commercial shipping and expertise in the law of the sea.<\/p>\r\n<p>But these legal issues have come to the fore this year because long-standing rules on the law of the sea have been violated.<\/p>\r\n<p>But that does not mean we should question the relevance of those rules. If anything, it only reinforces their importance to our everyday lives.<\/p>\r\n<p>So, whilst the UK will continue to work tirelessly with our allies to seek to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait.<\/p>\r\n<p>There is no doubt that the blocking of commercial vessels from exercising their right of transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz has directly impacted millions of people across this country.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"things-people-enjoy\">Things people enjoy:<\/h3>\r\n<p>My second point is opportunities.<\/p>\r\n<p>International law is also vital for things that make our lives special. Like going on holiday.<\/p>\r\n<p>Most people outside this room have never heard of the Chicago Convention, but millions of people rely on it every year.<\/p>\r\n<p>Every time a family wheels a suitcase through an airport terminal.<\/p>\r\n<p>Every time a boarding pass flashes green at the gate.<\/p>\r\n<p>Every time a Jet2 flight lifts off for Corfu or Tenerife or Faro.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Chicago Convention establishes the international legal framework for international civil aviation, governing everything from rights of overflight to safety standards for aviation.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>And Air Services Agreements between States give our commercial airlines the certainty they need to operate &ndash; without the quiet operation of international law, families across Britain would not have been able to enjoy their holidays this summer.<\/p>\r\n<p>And the same is true of many other legal frameworks that operate on the international or bilateral level.<\/p>\r\n<p>They might seem quite mundane, even to us as lawyers. But their importance cannot be understated. After all, it is a treaty between the UK and France that allows us to get to Paris by Eurostar in less than two hours.<\/p>\r\n<p>And when children set off on their school coach trip to France, it is made all the easier because States have agreed, as a matter of international law, for the mutual recognition of foreign driving licences.<\/p>\r\n<p>International law provides the stability we need to get on with our lives.<\/p>\r\n<p>This is my challenge to anyone who dismisses international law as some sort of ambiguous or foreign concept, where its only purpose is to constrain States&rsquo; freedom and stop them acting however they want.<\/p>\r\n<p>Consider the practical difference it makes.<\/p>\r\n<p>The ability to board a flight, cross borders, and travel with confidence depends on a framework of international rules and cooperation that most of us rarely think about but rely on every day.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"keeping-us-safe\">Keeping us safe:<\/h3>\r\n<p>The same principle extends to criminal justice, which is my third argument, how international law keeps people safe on our streets.<\/p>\r\n<p>The UK relies on a range of international criminal cooperation agreements, from UN-led treaties to Council of Europe, EU and bilateral arrangements, to extradite suspects, share evidence and pursue cross-border crime.<\/p>\r\n<p>When I was appointed as Attorney General in July, the Prime Minister wrote to me and asked that I help deliver the government&rsquo;s ambition to make our streets safer, halve violence against women and girls, and restore public confidence in the justice systems.<\/p>\r\n<p>International law has a role in that too.<\/p>\r\n<p>No one would accept a world where offenders could evade justice simply by hiding overseas.<\/p>\r\n<p>Nor would anyone accept a world where criminals abroad could help commit crimes on our streets and get away with it.<\/p>\r\n<p>But when it comes to criminal justice, successful prosecutions for cross-border crime cannot be achieved through ungoverned, sporadic dealings between States.<\/p>\r\n<p>There is no point in seeking the extradition of an offender if they can evade prosecution because their extradition process was unfair.<\/p>\r\n<p>And there is no point gathering evidence from abroad through mutual legal assistance if that evidence then gets thrown out of court because it was obtained unlawfully.<\/p>\r\n<p>Due process underpinned by legal certainty is essential for securing the justice that victims of crime deserve.<\/p>\r\n<p>And it is international law &ndash; in the form of those criminal justice treaties - that gives us the confidence that due process will be followed even when the crime, or the suspect, crosses borders.<\/p>\r\n<p>We&rsquo;ve recently seen this play out in practice.<\/p>\r\n<p>Last year, ten members of a major organised crime gang were sentenced to a combined total of 207 years in prison.<\/p>\r\n<p>Their operation was worth an estimated &pound;26 million and involved drugs, firearms and money moving across borders.<\/p>\r\n<p>The gang leader was directing parts of the enterprise from Spain, believing he could evade justice by using the encrypted messaging platform EncroChat.<\/p>\r\n<p>But he was wrong.<\/p>\r\n<p>Through cooperation between multinational law enforcement agencies, sharing intelligence, tracking suspects and working together, the organised crime gang was brought home to face justice.<\/p>\r\n<p>International law was crucial to that outcome, resulting in safer communities here in Britain.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"echr\">ECHR:<\/h3>\r\n<p>And finally, my fourth point, protecting individuals from the overreach of the state.<\/p>\r\n<p>International law doesn&rsquo;t just keep us safe, it protects our rights and freedoms too.<\/p>\r\n<p>The European Convention on Human Rights, brought home to the UK from Strasbourg in 1998 through the Human Rights Act, has delivered benefits to people across this country that are all too often overlooked.<\/p>\r\n<p>It has allowed people to object when doctors put &ldquo;do not resuscitate&rdquo; orders on their bed without their consent.<\/p>\r\n<p>It has allowed people with learning disabilities imprisoned in locked units to be reunited with their families.<\/p>\r\n<p>It has allowed elderly married couples in residential care to object when care home managers try to separate them.<\/p>\r\n<p>And it is the reason victims of rapists such as John Worboys have been able to force the police to investigate cases of rape, rather than being turned away.<\/p>\r\n<p>Of course, institutions like the ECHR are under strain. But they were never intended to stand frozen in time.<\/p>\r\n<p>To remain effective, they must evolve alongside the societies they serve.<\/p>\r\n<p>That is why this Government has worked with partners across Europe and through the Council of Europe to strengthen and modernise the Convention for the challenges of the twenty-first century.<\/p>\r\n<h3 id=\"west-bank\">West Bank<\/h3>\r\n<p>So far, I&rsquo;ve spoken about the practical, everyday benefits that international law delivers.<\/p>\r\n<p>But I also want to speak about its arguably most important role - maintaining peace and security.<\/p>\r\n<p>The&nbsp;Prime Minister has made clear that,&nbsp;in a difficult and dangerous world, it is more important than ever that Britain stands for something.<\/p>\r\n<p>Last month, we saw what that means in practice.<\/p>\r\n<p>Alongside twelve other countries, the Foreign Secretary gave a statement to Parliament announcing UK&rsquo;s shift in policy on Israel and Palestine.<\/p>\r\n<p>The UK has long considered Israeli settlements in the West Bank to be a violation of Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention.<\/p>\r\n<p>But for the first time, the Foreign Secretary announced a formal change in the view of the British Government &ndash; that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory is, itself, unlawful.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>There was no requirement or legal obligation on the Government to make that view public.<\/p>\r\n<p>As the Prime Minister said, that conclusion is in line with, but independent of, the conclusion of the International Court of Justice in its Advisory Opinion on the Occupied Palestinian Territories.<\/p>\r\n<p>The Government reached this conclusion after considering all of Israel&rsquo;s actions in the&nbsp;occupied territory, in particular their scope and intended permanence.<\/p>\r\n<p>The unlawfulness of the occupation should be reflected in the economic relationships that the UK chooses to have with the occupied territories.<\/p>\r\n<p>For that reason, the Government will introduce an import ban on goods from illegal settlements.&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<p>And we will ban the advertising in the UK of illegal settlements.<\/p>\r\n<p>This is Britain standing for something.<\/p>\r\n<p>It is about holding true to our values, supporting accountability, and upholding respect for international law.<\/p>\r\n<p>I am proud to serve in a government that is prepared to do that.<\/p>\r\n<p>And one that will work with our allies, to maximise our collective influence, uphold international law, and demonstrate the vital role that cooperation plays in our response to the challenges we face.<\/p>\r\n<p>So, to finish, international law is not perfect.<\/p>\r\n<p>And I am not here today to pretend that the challenges it faces are not real.<\/p>\r\n<p>But imperfection does not mean unimportant.<\/p>\r\n<p>Anyone who dismisses international law must also explain away the practical difference it makes to millions of people every single day.<\/p>\r\n<p>Today, I have set out how international law helps make our country safer, more prosperous and stronger.<\/p>\r\n<p>It gives Britain influence beyond our size.<\/p>\r\n<p>It allows us to work with allies to pursue criminals, challenge aggression, uphold human rights and hold rogue actors to account.<\/p>\r\n<p>But just as much, it matters to people at home.<\/p>\r\n<p>To the parent worried about the bills arriving at the end of the month.<\/p>\r\n<p>To the family looking forward to a holiday booked months in advance.<\/p>\r\n<p>To the victim waiting for justice.<\/p>\r\n<p>Law and legal certainty underpin so much of our daily freedoms, the fact that it operates in the background does not make it any less important.<\/p>\r\n<p>Today we see conflict spreading, trade under strain, and trust in our institutions being tested, but the answer should never be to look inward or to do less.<\/p>\r\n<p>It should be to do more&hellip; more cooperation, recommitting ourselves to our international obligations and to speak with absolute confidence about the benefits it brings.<\/p>\r\n<p>And in an increasingly uncertain world it is one of the most practical, tangible and important responsibilities we share.<\/p>\r\n<p>Thank you very much.<\/p>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/attorney-generals-office\">Attorney General's Office<\/a> and <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/people\/ellie-reeves\">The Rt Hon Ellie Reeves KC MP<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 20 October 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"article-item\"><h2 class=\"article-title\">DVLA strategic ambition 2026 to 2030<\/h2><div class=\"article-body\"><div class=\"preview\">The DVLA strategic ambition sets out the agency&amp;rsquo;s direction for the next 4 years\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDocuments\r\n \r\nDVLA strategic ambition 2026 to 2030\r\nHTML\r\n \r\nDVLA strategic ambition 2026 to 2030\r\nPDF, 3.29 MB, 13 pages\r\n&amp;nbsp;\r\nDetails\r\nThis strategic ambition sets out how DVLA will focus on:\r\n\r\ndeli...<\/div><div class=\"full-content\" style=\"display:none;\"><h3 class=\"gem-c-lead-paragraph govuk-!-margin-bottom-6\" dir=\"ltr\">The DVLA strategic ambition sets out the agency&rsquo;s direction for the next 4 years<\/h3>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Documents<\/h2>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/dvla-strategic-ambition-2026-to-2030\/dvla-strategic-ambition-2026-to-2030\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/dvla-strategic-ambition-2026-to-2030\/dvla-strategic-ambition-2026-to-2030\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">DVLA strategic ambition 2026 to 2030<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">HTML<\/p>\r\n<p><a class=\"govuk-link\" tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6acfa4d8a57ddfe32196ad21\/dvla-strategic-ambition-2026-to-2030.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-ga4-link=\"{\"> <\/a><\/p>\r\n<h3 class=\"gem-c-attachment__title\"><a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/6acfa4d8a57ddfe32196ad21\/dvla-strategic-ambition-2026-to-2030.pdf\" target=\"_self\" type=\"\" data-ga4-link=\"{\">DVLA strategic ambition 2026 to 2030<\/a><\/h3>\r\n<p class=\"gem-c-attachment__metadata\">PDF, 3.29 MB, 13 pages<\/p>\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<h2 class=\"gem-c-heading__text govuk-heading-m\">Details<\/h2>\r\n<p>This strategic ambition sets out how DVLA will focus on:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>delivering an excellent customer experience<\/li>\r\n<li>maximising the value of our data intelligently and responsibly<\/li>\r\n<li>creating a workplace where everyone can thrive<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>From: <a class=\"govuk-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency\">Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency<\/a><\/p><\/div><button class=\"read-more-btn\">Read More<\/button><\/div><div class=\"article-date\">Published: 20 October 2026<\/div><\/div><\/div>","archive":"<ul><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-11')\">November 2026 (42)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-10')\">October 2026 (155)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-09')\">September 2026 (177)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-08')\">August 2026 (93)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-07')\">July 2026 (143)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-06')\">June 2026 (157)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-05')\">May 2026 (96)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-04')\">April 2026 (106)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-03')\">March 2026 (131)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-02')\">February 2026 (123)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2026-01')\">January 2026 (113)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-12')\">December 2025 (103)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-11')\">November 2025 (121)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-10')\">October 2025 (122)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-09')\">September 2025 (119)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-08')\">August 2025 (88)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-07')\">July 2025 (110)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-06')\">June 2025 (123)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-05')\">May 2025 (97)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-04')\">April 2025 (91)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-03')\">March 2025 (110)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-02')\">February 2025 (102)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2025-01')\">January 2025 (114)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-12')\">December 2024 (83)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-11')\">November 2024 (110)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-10')\">October 2024 (140)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-09')\">September 2024 (119)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-08')\">August 2024 (102)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-07')\">July 2024 (136)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-06')\">June 2024 (67)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-05')\">May 2024 (149)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-04')\">April 2024 (131)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-03')\">March 2024 (141)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-02')\">February 2024 (157)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2024-01')\">January 2024 (135)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-12')\">December 2023 (111)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-11')\">November 2023 (157)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-10')\">October 2023 (173)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-09')\">September 2023 (176)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-08')\">August 2023 (132)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-07')\">July 2023 (155)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-06')\">June 2023 (160)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-05')\">May 2023 (136)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-04')\">April 2023 (108)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-03')\">March 2023 (148)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-02')\">February 2023 (112)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2023-01')\">January 2023 (100)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-12')\">December 2022 (95)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-11')\">November 2022 (103)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-10')\">October 2022 (55)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-09')\">September 2022 (62)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-08')\">August 2022 (55)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-07')\">July 2022 (83)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-06')\">June 2022 (80)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-05')\">May 2022 (74)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-04')\">April 2022 (68)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-03')\">March 2022 (89)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-02')\">February 2022 (60)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2022-01')\">January 2022 (54)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-12')\">December 2021 (53)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-11')\">November 2021 (77)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-10')\">October 2021 (68)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-09')\">September 2021 (90)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-08')\">August 2021 (42)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-07')\">July 2021 (71)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-06')\">June 2021 (71)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-05')\">May 2021 (63)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-04')\">April 2021 (57)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-03')\">March 2021 (89)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-02')\">February 2021 (68)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2021-01')\">January 2021 (63)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-12')\">December 2020 (64)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-11')\">November 2020 (86)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-10')\">October 2020 (60)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-09')\">September 2020 (88)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-08')\">August 2020 (54)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-07')\">July 2020 (89)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-06')\">June 2020 (73)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-05')\">May 2020 (59)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-04')\">April 2020 (61)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-03')\">March 2020 (64)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-02')\">February 2020 (67)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2020-01')\">January 2020 (104)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-12')\">December 2019 (25)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-11')\">November 2019 (49)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-10')\">October 2019 (89)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-09')\">September 2019 (67)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-08')\">August 2019 (49)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-07')\">July 2019 (91)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-06')\">June 2019 (79)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-05')\">May 2019 (105)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-04')\">April 2019 (76)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-03')\">March 2019 (105)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-02')\">February 2019 (80)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2019-01')\">January 2019 (89)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-12')\">December 2018 (76)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-11')\">November 2018 (107)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-10')\">October 2018 (94)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-09')\">September 2018 (74)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-08')\">August 2018 (73)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-07')\">July 2018 (85)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-06')\">June 2018 (89)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-05')\">May 2018 (92)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-04')\">April 2018 (82)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-03')\">March 2018 (95)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-02')\">February 2018 (79)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2018-01')\">January 2018 (75)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-12')\">December 2017 (74)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-11')\">November 2017 (136)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-10')\">October 2017 (135)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-09')\">September 2017 (123)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-08')\">August 2017 (51)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-07')\">July 2017 (105)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-06')\">June 2017 (51)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-05')\">May 2017 (15)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-04')\">April 2017 (56)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-03')\">March 2017 (92)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-02')\">February 2017 (81)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2017-01')\">January 2017 (71)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-12')\">December 2016 (77)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-11')\">November 2016 (107)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-10')\">October 2016 (107)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-09')\">September 2016 (133)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-08')\">August 2016 (78)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-07')\">July 2016 (116)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-06')\">June 2016 (67)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-05')\">May 2016 (78)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-04')\">April 2016 (60)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-03')\">March 2016 (84)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-02')\">February 2016 (91)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2016-01')\">January 2016 (76)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-12')\">December 2015 (91)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-11')\">November 2015 (74)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-10')\">October 2015 (95)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-09')\">September 2015 (125)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-08')\">August 2015 (83)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-07')\">July 2015 (117)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-06')\">June 2015 (115)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-05')\">May 2015 (44)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-04')\">April 2015 (17)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-03')\">March 2015 (170)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-02')\">February 2015 (151)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2015-01')\">January 2015 (162)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-12')\">December 2014 (155)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-11')\">November 2014 (223)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-10')\">October 2014 (164)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-09')\">September 2014 (212)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-08')\">August 2014 (150)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-07')\">July 2014 (259)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-06')\">June 2014 (79)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-05')\">May 2014 (2)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-04')\">April 2014 (24)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-03')\">March 2014 (2)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-02')\">February 2014 (14)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2014-01')\">January 2014 (110)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-12')\">December 2013 (80)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-11')\">November 2013 (81)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-10')\">October 2013 (78)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-09')\">September 2013 (110)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-08')\">August 2013 (154)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-07')\">July 2013 (130)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-06')\">June 2013 (85)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-05')\">May 2013 (62)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-04')\">April 2013 (69)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-03')\">March 2013 (65)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-02')\">February 2013 (60)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2013-01')\">January 2013 (71)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\" onclick=\"filterByMonth('2012-01')\">January 2012 (29)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>"}