Category: Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE : The UK remains steadfast in our commitment to advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda globally – UK statement at the UN Security Council [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 October 2025.

Statement by Archie Young, UK Ambassador to the General Assembly, at the UN Security Council meeting on Women, Peace and Security.

25 years ago, this Council adopted UN Security Council Resolution 1325, delivering a united message that for peace to be sustainable, it must be inclusive. This means it must be with women’s full, equal, meaningful and safe participation.

Whilst there is much to celebrate since then, decades of hard-won progress are under threat. From Sudan to Ukraine to the DRC, conflict and violence is escalating and women and children continue to bear the brunt.

Women in Gaza are suffering from the unprecedented scale of violence and lack of access to basic services and healthcare. I pay tribute to the courageous women across the globe that have dedicated their lives to peace and security, often in the most challenging circumstances.

The UK remains steadfast in our commitment to advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda globally. There are three areas on which we must focus our attention and take collective action:

First, as underlined by the Secretary-General, we must do more to turn our commitments on women’s participation into action.

The UK has supported greater involvement of women in peace processes in Sudan and the Philippines; in peacebuilding in Myanmar and Syria; and in defence in Ukraine; and in reconciliation efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The increasing threats and reprisals against women who engage in peace and security are unacceptable. The UK will continue to work with UN Women to help Member States prevent, and mitigate the impact of, reprisals.

Second, we need renewed efforts to prevent conflict-related sexual violence and strengthen justice and accountability for survivors.

Since 2012, the UK has spearheaded the flagship Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative and we continue to work consistently to confront rising violence against women and girls, including in Ukraine, Sudan and the DRC.

We commend Ukraine’s leadership of the International Alliance on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict, and their important work to respond to sexual violence perpetrated by Russian forces.

We call for an end to impunity and urge decisive action around the world to support survivors and to ensure their voices shape our response.

Third, we must address the changing nature of conflict, and the impact this has on women and girls.

On the frontline and online, people are being targeted because of their gender, undermining national security and exploiting societal vulnerabilities. The rights of women and girls are under attack, threatening our shared national security and our global security.

Humanitarian and health crises are exacerbated by reproductive violence and the gendered impacts of conflict. In Gaza and Sudan, pregnant and breastfeeding women are suffering from acute malnutrition and have lost access to critical reproductive health services. In Yemen, a woman dies in childbirth every two hours – less time than we will spend in this chamber today.

The past 25 years have shown us that efforts to champion the role and rights of women and girls in peace and security can deliver meaningful change. We must redouble our efforts to protect those gains and accelerate implementation – for the next generation of women and girls.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Public urged to buy pets from reputable sources [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 6 October 2025.

New rules mean all commercial dog imports from Romania into Great Britain to undergo mandatory pre-import testing.

The UK Chief Veterinary Officer is today (October 6th) renewing calls on prospective dog buyers to source their dogs from responsible breeders in order to protect animal and public health.

Steps people should take include not only sourcing dogs from reputable breeders or rescue organisations, but ensuring proper health checks and documentation are in place, and understanding the potential risks associated with importing or rehoming dogs from abroad. Vets, breeders, and rehoming organisations should remain alert to the signs of disease and follow best practice when handling, testing, or managing dogs at risk.

There is a risk of imported dogs carrying diseases such as Brucella canis,  and even rabies, presenting a threat to the health of canine and human populations in the Great Britain.

Since 2020, there has been a steady increase in the number of Brucella canis cases in Great Britain, the majority of which have been found in imported dogs with around 50% of all identified infections since 2020 coming from Romanian dog imports.

Brucella canis is a serious disease affecting dogs that can lead to reproductive issues such as abortion, as well as joint pain and lameness. Many infected dogs show no obvious symptoms but remain infectious, meaning they can unknowingly spread the disease. Currently, there is no vaccine and no effective treatment to eliminate the infection or prevent its transmission.

To protect our biosecurity, the government has introduced a safeguard measure which comes into force from tomorrow (October 7th) requiring all commercial dog imports from Romania into Great Britain to undergo mandatory pre-import testing for Brucella canis (B. canis).The measure applies to commercial imports only (which includes rescue dogs that are to be rehomed) and is in addition to existing requirements under the Approved Importer Scheme. It does not apply to non-commercial pet movements from Romania.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:

Anyone considering getting a dog should make sure they are fully prepared for the responsibility. Importing dogs without the proper health checks or testing can increase the risk of introducing serious diseases like Brucella canis into Great Britain.

The new rules on dogs imported from Romania are a necessary step to safeguard both animal and human health. I strongly urge prospective dog owners to do their research, choose reputable breeders or rescue organisations, and ensure all required health checks and tests are completed before bringing a dog into their home.

This safeguard will remain in place until the disease risk is judged to have reduced sufficiently. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will review the measure regularly to ensure it remains proportionate, evidence-based, and targeted at the areas of highest risk.

The commercial import of dogs from other countries continues to be unaffected by this change.

While the overall risk to the public is low, the disease is also zoonotic, meaning it can be passed from dogs to humans. Those with weakened immune systems, pregnant individuals, and children under five may be more vulnerable. Further public health information can be found here: Brucella canis: information for the public and dog owners – GOV.UK

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : David Kogan OBE confirmed as Independent Football Regulator Chair and Non-Executives appointed [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport on 6 October 2025.

David Kogan has been appointed for a 5 year term until 19 May 2030, including time served as Chair-designate prior to Royal Assent of the Football Governance Act. Dame Helen Stephenson and Simon Levine also appointed to the Board as Non-Executives.

David Kogan OBE

David Kogan OBE has held senior positions in the television and sports industries during a 45 year career as a media executive, business leader and corporate advisor. He negotiated a succession of multi-billion pound TV rights deals on behalf of major sporting bodies, including the Premier League and the English Football League. He has also advised UEFA, The Scottish Premier League, Six Nations, Premier Rugby and the NFL. Most recently he sold the broadcast rights on behalf of the Woman’s Super League.

He is a former managing director of Reuters Television (the global television news agency), and an ex-CEO of the Magnum photo agency. He has co-founded both Reel Enterprises and the Women’s Sports Group. He is currently an advisor to the New York Times Group and CNN on their commercial, digital and AI strategies. Among his public boards David was a non-executive director at Channel 4, a member of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office’s Services board from 2007-14 and Chair of Westminster Kingsway Corporation. He is the author of three books.

The appointment of Mr Kogan will mean that the work in establishing the football regulator as a legal entity can continue at pace to improve the governance and financial sustainability in the game.

An inquiry regarding this appointment led by the Commissioner for Public Appointments is ongoing. We have cooperated fully with the inquiry by the Commissioner of Public Appointments and await the report’s publication.

Today, the DCMS also announces that two non-executive directors have been appointed to the board of the Independent Football Regulator for five year terms, commencing on 8 September.

Dame Helen Stephenson

Dame Helen Stephenson is a Non-Executive Director and former Chief Executive of the Charity Commission for England and Wales. She joined the Commission from the Department for Education where she was Director of Early Years and Child Care. Helen previously worked in the Cabinet Office where she was Director of the Office for Civil Society and Government Innovation Group. Helen joined the Civil Service from the Big Lottery Fund where she was Head of Strategic Policy and Partnerships.

She has worked for a large national charity as a development manager and as a researcher and consultant in the statutory and voluntary sector. Helen has a PhD from Bristol University.

Helen is a Non-Executive Board member of the National Lottery Community Fund and Chair of the People Committee. She is a Board member of the ECB Regulatory Board and on the People and Governance Committee at the Royal Academy of Dance. Helen is a Non-Executive Director for North West London Acute Provider Collaborative.

Previously, Helen was on the Board of the Big Society Trust and was Chair of NCT until her appointment at the Charity Commission. Helen was awarded the CBE in 2014 and was awarded a DBE in the Birthday Honours list 2024 for services to charity and regulation.

Simon Levine

Simon Levine has been a practising lawyer in the City of London for over 35 years providing litigation and regulatory advice across a range of sectors including technology, media and sport.

Until late 2024, Simon was for a decade the managing partner and co-global chief executive officer of a global law firm. He now acts as a strategic consultant to businesses in the technology, legal and professional services sectors.

Since 2018 Simon has sat on the board of the regulator for higher education in England, the Office for Students. He has also been a member of advisory boards of the Zoological Society of London, City UK, the International Development Business Exchange, and the Lord Mayor of London, and is an Ambassador for His Majesty’s King Charles III’s Sustainable Markets Initiative.

Notes to editors
- The appointment of a Chair and Non-Executive Directors of the Independent Football Regulator have been made as the result of a fair and open competition.
- The Chair of the Independent Football Regulator is remunerated at £130,000 per annum for an initial time commitment of three days per week.
- Non-Executive Directors of the Independent Football Regulator are remunerated at £20,800 per annum for a time commitment of one day a week.
- Once fully operational, the running of the IFR will be funded through a levy on licensed clubs. Until this point, it will be funded by the government, with this initial funding eventually recouped through the levy.
- Under the Governance Code on Public Appointments, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election.
- Mr Kogan has declared that he has made donations to local Labour Party candidates over the last three years, as publicly disclosed on the Electoral Commission donation register. He stepped down as Chair of LabourList in 2025, an independent website covering the Labour movement.
- Mr Kogan appeared before the Culture, Media and Sport Committee. A transcript of this hearing is available here, including political declarations made by Mr Kogan that are outside the scope of the Governance Code which are noted here.
- Dame Helen Stephenson and Simon Levine have declared that they have not undertaken any significant political activity.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 60 – UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sudan [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 October 2025.

UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sudan. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

Thank you Mr President,

On behalf of a core group of Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the UK, I present draft resolution L.18, which responds to the Humanitarian and Human Rights Crisis in Sudan.

Mr President, the UN Fact-Finding Mission’s findings are clear: the warring parties have committed war crimes, with the Rapid Support Forces’ actions constituting crimes against humanity. Civilians are targeted and killed on the basis of ethnicity and sexual and gender-based violence is perpetrated on an overwhelming scale.

Over 30 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Yet even as famine and cholera spreads across Sudan, access is deliberately blocked. The Rapid Support Forces’ continued siege on El Fasher and the Sudanese Armed Forces’ brutal reprisal killings, including 26 in just one village, demonstrate, yet again, a total disregard for international law.

Mr President, we would prefer not to have to present this resolution. The international community has repeatedly called for all parties to immediately agree a ceasefire, protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access. And yet indiscriminate shelling and destruction of schools, hospitals and places of worship continues to intensify.

This Council cannot sit idly by as the world braces itself for yet further mass atrocities in North Darfur. We must stand united.

The UN Fact-Finding Mission is the only independent investigative body documenting and reporting on these violations across Sudan. Extending its mandate is crucial to ending the cycle of impunity that devastates Sudan.

There is sadly no credible international or national alternative. As the FFM itself has made clear, Sudan’s ‘national committee’ remains unwilling and unable to conduct thorough, prompt and impartial investigations. Without the FFM’s documentation efforts, the victims of these international crimes will not see justice.

Our Core Group held consultations and discussed this draft extensively with all delegations, starting with Sudan. We took on board many of the proposals made, including a number from Sudan. Yet unfortunately, despite our best efforts, these changes were not enough for the Sudanese authorities.

Mr President,

It is brave Sudanese local responders who continue to stand by the people of Sudan. I want to pay tribute to the commitment of these mutual aid groups who risk their lives to provide humanitarian assistance, and hope across the country.

The Sudanese authorities may not be in favour of this resolution, but the people of Sudan are. They want accountability. They want peace.

Let us show the people of Sudan that they are not forgotten, by voting in favour of this resolution.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 60 – UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sri Lanka [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 6 October 2025.

UK Core Group Statement to introduce Item 2 Resolution on Sri Lanka. Delivered by the UK’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN, Kumar Iyer.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I have the honour to introduce draft resolution L1 Rev1 on behalf of the core group comprising Canada, Malawi, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and the United Kingdom.

Let me begin by paying tribute to Dr. Kasipillai Manoharan, who sadly passed away during this session. Dr. Manoharan was a tireless advocate for justice following the killing of his son, Ragihar, one of five students murdered in Trincomalee in 2006 in an emblematic human rights case. Dr Manoharan’s unwavering pursuit of truth and accountability, including his campaign at the United Nations and his presence at this Council, inspired many. His passing is a solemn reminder that too many family members have passed away without seeing justice for their loved ones, or without knowing the fate of those who were disappeared.

For those who remain – survivors, families, communities – their call for truth and justice grows ever more urgent.

Mr. President,

This draft resolution acknowledges the steps taken and the commendable commitments made by the current Sri Lankan Government to address long-standing human rights concerns, and the deep wounds left by decades of ethnic conflict. We urge the Government to translate these commitments into tangible action.

The exhumation of mass graves holds the potential to deliver long-awaited answers to families. It is imperative that these investigations are conducted in a manner that, ensures they support future identification efforts and uphold the dignity of victims.

The establishment of an independent prosecutor’s office would mark a vital step toward dismantling the entrenched impunity surrounding conflict-era violations and abuses.

The repeal and reform of key legislation in line with international standards, notably the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Online Safety Act, would demonstrate a meaningful shift in approach;

And an end to the surveillance and intimidation of human rights defenders and families of the disappeared is essential to rebuild trust and foster reconciliation.

As these efforts progress, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights continues to play a crucial role – through technical assistance, reporting, and its work to advance accountability.

We extend sincere thanks to the Sri Lankan delegation and to all delegations who have engaged constructively on this resolution. We have worked hard to strike the right balance between recognising progress and urging action on the challenges that remain.

We hope that all members of this Council will adopt this draft resolution without a vote.

Thank you.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Officer for journalist safety now in every UK police force to promote media freedom [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Home Office on 6 October 2025.

Journalists now have a dedicated point of contact in every police force in the UK to get support when faced with abuse and threats of violence.
- New agreement to bolster reporter safety as part of the Government’s National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists
- Plans to promote media freedom and protect press from harassment
Journalists across the country are being urged to make use of newly established dedicated contacts within every police force in the latest measure by the Government to promote media freedom and protect journalists.

Every police force in the UK now has a Journalist Safety Liaison Officer, as part of a strengthened partnership between the media, policing and Government to improve their safety.

Journalists routinely risk their personal safety while reporting from protests, crime scenes, and other volatile environments. Their presence on the ground is essential for challenging misinformation and highlighting issues that matter to communities across the UK. Yet in recent years, they’ve increasingly become targets – both online and on the ground.

Media Minister Ian Murray said:

Too often, journalists are put in harm’s way while fulfilling their vital role of delivering accurate news to the public.

It is only right that they feel supported and protected so they can focus on carrying out their jobs to the highest standard.

By appointing Journalist Safety Liaison Officers in every police force, I hope reporters will feel reassured knowing they have a direct point of contact if issues arise.

In recognition of the potential dangers journalists face, the Government and National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) have stepped up work over the past year to appoint Journalist Safety Liaison Officers (JSLOs).

In addition to those that already exist in Scotland and Northern Ireland, there is now an officer in all 43 forces in England and Wales, as well as one for the British Transport Police and Counter Terror Policing.

The officers will provide journalists and media employers with a single point of contact and provide practical support in response to abuse or intimidation. This includes safety guidance ahead of high-risk assignments, such as protests, and ensures crimes against journalists are consistently recorded and addressed.

The appointment of JSLOs is part of the Government’s National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists, which aims to ensure journalists can carry out their role in informing the public and holding those in power to account.

It also aligns with Government plans for a Local Media Strategy to support local journalism. Resources are stretched in many local newsrooms across the country, and through the Strategy ministers want to make it easier for journalists to cover the issues that matter to local communities, conduct investigative journalism and report without fear or favour.

Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips, who co-chairs the National Committee for the Safety of Journalists, said:

I know first-hand what it feels like to be on the receiving end of threats and intimidation. But I also know my experience is not unique – too many people who put themselves in the public eye to do their jobs face the same.

My broader work on safeguarding has shown me how important it is to protect those who speak out, and that must include journalists. Their work underpins our democracy and they must be able to do it free from fear.

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for media and communications, Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya, said:

Policing takes the safety of journalists extremely seriously, and this initiative demonstrates our commitment to protecting those who play a vital role in our democracy.

The National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists has brought together partners across policing, government, and the media to tackle the threats journalists face.

Policing is proud to support this work, and we will continue to play our part in ensuring that journalists are protected and empowered to do their jobs without fear or intimidation.

The list of JSLOs is available to all journalists (including freelance journalists) and employers on request and has been circulated by the NPCC. Contact details for the relevant JSLOs can be found by contacting The Society of Editors, the News Media Association or The National Union of Journalists.

Additional quotes:

Dawn Alford, chief executive of the Society of Editors, said:

Improving communication and collaboration between the police and journalists is a vital step in ending impunity for crimes against journalists and the appointment of journalist safety officers across all UK forces sends a strong message to the perpetrators of this abuse.

Robust, independent journalism strengthens democracy and the safety and ability of journalists to report, without fear or favour, should be of paramount importance to anyone who values a free press and its ability to hold power to account.

News Media Association chief executive Owen Meredith said:

Journalists have a crucial role in reporting the stories that matter but, sadly, increasingly, they face an array of threats and intimidation designed to silence reporting.

This is completely unacceptable and those responsible should be held fully accountable for their actions.

The NMA strongly supports the aims of the National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists. The new list of Journalist Safety Liaison Officers is a very welcome initiative which will facilitate support for journalists who find themselves on the receiving end of threats and direct intimidation.

Laura Davison, NUJ general secretary, said:

The introduction of JSLOs within police forces across the UK will be welcomed by journalists as important progress in the government’s ongoing work on the safety of journalists.

No journalist should ever face threats or abuse as part of their role, and ensuring designated contacts to approach serves as a crucial milestone in providing practical, vital support to journalists when needed most.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Heroism and bravery rewarded in latest Gallantry Awards List [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Cabinet Office on 6 October 2025.

The latest Gallantry Awards have been announced today, with 20 extraordinary people being awarded one of three types of awards; The George Medal, The King’s Gallantry Medal and The King’s Commendation for Bravery.
- 20 extraordinary people have been awarded a Gallantry Award today for their courage and bravery.
- The awards include 2 George Medals, 3 King’s Gallantry Medals and 15 King’s Commendations for Bravery.
- The list includes Grace O’Malley-Kumar, Richard O’Brien, Alicia Richards and Molly Bulmer.
The latest Gallantry Awards have been announced today, with 20 extraordinary people being awarded one of three types of awards; The George Medal, The King’s Gallantry Medal and The King’s Commendation for Bravery.

Gallantry Awards are given out to people in recognition for their courage and bravery in the face of danger. Three of the awards on the list are being awarded posthumously, and will be presented to the individuals’ next of kin.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said:

This is what true courage looks like. In moments of unimaginable danger, these extraordinary people acted with selflessness and bravery that speaks to the very best of who we are as a nation.

We owe each of them – and their families – our deepest thanks. Their actions remind us of the strength and compassion that run through our communities.

I want to pay tribute to all of the recipients, including Grace O’Malley Kumar who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect her friend. Her legacy will live on as a powerful example of heroism.

Recipients receiving a gallantry award include:

Grace O’Malley-Kumar, who has received The George Medal for intervening in an armed attack in Nottingham on 13th June 2023.

Richard O’Brien has received the King’s Gallantry Medal for intervening in an armed attack in Barnet on 21 September 2021.

Alicia Richards and Molly Bulmer have received the King’s Commendation for Bravery after intervening in an armed attack at a school in Sheffield on 1 May 2024.

PC Mark Sutton and PC Thomas Dransfield have received the King’s Commendation for Bravery for rescuing a man falling from a bridge on 22 November 2023.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : Ministers confirm appointment of new Acas Council members [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Business and Trade on 6 October 2025.

Nicola Smith and Dave Penman have been appointed by ministers as worker members of the Acas Council.

Ministers at the Department for Business and Trade have confirmed the appointment of two new members to the Council of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) today.

Acas is an independent public body which provides free and impartial advice to employers, employees and their representatives on, employment rights, best practice and policies, and resolving workplace conflict.

It is governed by a Council which determines the organisation’s strategic direction, policies and priorities, with council members appointed based on their professional expertise in either business or trade unions.

Nicola Smith and Dave Penman have been added to the council as worker members.

Biographies

Nicola Smith
- Nicola has been Director or Policy at the Trade Union Congress since 2024. She was previously the Head of Rights, Social and Economic Affairs from 2023 to 2024; Interim Chief Executive, Timewise, from 2022 to 2023; and Assistant Director, Stakeholder Engagement, The Nursing and Midwifery Council, from 2020 to 2022. Nicola is also a Labour Market Advisory Board Member.
Dave Penman
- Dave has been General Secretary of the FDA since 2012, having joined as a National Officer in 2000. He has also been a member of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) General Council since 2012; and TUC Executive Committee since 2023. He is a Member of the TUC Finance Committee and a TUC Trustee.
October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : New UK Connect Fund awards over £300,000 to community groups in Northern Ireland and Great Britain [October 2025]

The press release issued by the Northern Ireland Office on 6 October 2025.

Nine voluntary and community groups are the first to receive funding from the £1 million Connect Fund grant scheme.

Community projects to develop youth leadership across the UK, facilitate dialogue on Lough Neagh’s degeneration, and combat health inequalities and poverty are among the first successful applicants to the Northern Ireland Office’s (NIO) Connect Fund.

Nine community groups will receive funding totalling £300,000 from the Connect Fund’s £1 million pot to strengthen collaboration between groups in Great Britain and those in Northern Ireland.

Announced at the East West Council in June, the Connect Fund supports groups working on projects which directly affect Northern Ireland communities, helping them to tackle challenges and opportunities which also affect communities in Great Britain.

Among the recipients is CO3 – the Chief Officers Third Sector East West Forum – which will partner with organisations in London and Edinburgh to establish an East-West leadership forum for 30 Chief Executives from the voluntary and community sectors across the UK. This will include workshops and knowledge sharing at Corrymeela.

NIO Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Matthew Patrick visited CO3 to hear about their work and congratulate them on their successful application.

He said: “The Connect Fund promotes grassroots connections between community and voluntary organisations in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, to benefit local communities.

“From youth work to the environment, from leadership development to tackling inequalities and poverty, this fund will make a real difference – improving the quality of life of people across the UK.

“Importantly, it will also help to forge close, invaluable bonds of mutual support between community organisations in Northern Ireland and the wider UK, enabling knowledge exchange to tackle shared challenges.”

CO3 Chairperson Jacinta Linden said: “We are genuinely delighted to have been awarded a Connect Fund grant alongside our partners, the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations (ACEVO), and Charity Leadership Scotland (formerly ACOSVO).

“As sector leaders, we so rarely have the chance to step back from the day-to-day and think strategically together in a safe and trusted space. This programme gives us that gift — the opportunity to share, collaborate, and learn across boundaries, and in doing so to ignite fresh ideas and lasting relationships.

“We are deeply appreciative of this support and excited for the potential it will unlock for our leaders, our organisations and, most importantly, the communities we serve.”

Another successful applicant, Belfast youth organisation YouthAction, will use its grant to join with groups in England, Scotland and Wales, strengthening East-West civic relationships through a Youth Leader Summit hosted in Belfast for young leaders aged 18-35. It will also hold a CEO Leadership Summit in England for existing cross-nation partners to strengthen organisational alignment across Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England.

Meanwhile, Dungannon not-for-profit organisation South Tyrone Empowerment Programme (STEP) will use its grant to facilitate dialogue on shared environmental challenges, specifically the degeneration of Lough Neagh, partnering with organisations in Scotland, England and Belfast through field trips and stakeholder conferences.

October 9, 2025
PRESS RELEASE : New funds for local leaders to unlock jobs and boost innovation across the country [October 2025]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 6 October 2025.
- Local areas can now bid for support of up to £20 million each in government funding to grow existing regional science and tech expertise
- Investment will back local leaders who know their regions best, unlocking discoveries and creating hundreds of jobs as part of record £86 billion R&D settlement
- Builds on support already earmarked to local leaders in ten UK areas through Local Innovation Partnerships Fund – driving regional growth through Plan for Change
Local leaders across the country can now bid for support of up to £20 million each in a new competition, as the government backs regional expertise to deliver cutting-edge research that could save lives and create jobs (Monday 6 October).

Research funding body UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is inviting a broad range of local and regional partnerships to bid for government funding to support research and innovation projects in their area through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund. The competition will back partnerships that can turn existing research breakthroughs into practical solutions that create jobs and improve people’s lives, supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

The fund is designed to help regions across the UK build on their existing strengths – whether that is developing technology that helps doctors diagnose diseases faster, creating cleaner transport solutions, or discovering innovations that spawn entirely new industries.

Local leaders, working alongside universities and businesses, are best placed to identify these regional opportunities and turn research breakthroughs into real-world solutions that benefit their communities.

Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said:

This fund is our Plan for Change in action. It empowers local leaders, researchers, and businesses with skin in the game to deliver transformational research that creates jobs and improves lives in their area.

Ten regions already have our support and will be able to deliver game-changing innovations to benefit their communities.

Now we’re extending this opportunity to the rest of the country, and I encourage partnerships everywhere to come forward, and show how they can unlock their local expertise to create tomorrow’s innovations.

Consortiums of various forms are encouraged to apply, to ensure regions across the length and breadth of the UK are supported to develop new innovations and drive regional growth.

Ten regions across the UK have already received backing through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund. These include established innovation hubs in England such as Greater Manchester, West Midlands, and West Yorkshire, alongside Glasgow City Region in Scotland, Cardiff Capital Region in Wales, and an innovation corridor linking Belfast and Derry-Londonderry in Northern Ireland. Each of these areas has been earmarked for at least £30 million to invest in their regional innovation strengths, from advanced manufacturing and life sciences to digital technologies and clean energy, ensuring every nation of the UK benefits from this major government investment in R&D.

This approach builds on the successful Innovation Accelerators programme, which has already brought in more than £140 million of private investment and created hundreds of jobs. Greater Manchester teams are helping detect heart and lung diseases more quickly and cheaply, while Glasgow researchers are working to spot signs of colon cancer earlier to save lives. This shows how researchers, businesses and local leaders can work together to tackle the country’s biggest challenges while boosting local economies.

This funding forms part of the record £86 billion R&D settlement until 2030 and represents a key pillar of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, supporting high-growth sectors in every region. For areas ready to unlock their innovation potential, this competition offers a transformative opportunity to secure the partnerships and investment needed to drive growth and improve lives across the country.

Notes to editors

UKRI will run a 2-stage selection process to identify the most promising partnerships.

Interested areas can submit expressions of interest and find out more about the eligibility criteria. UKRI will then work with shortlisted partnerships to co-develop detailed proposals that demonstrate how they can turn research into real-world solutions. An independent assessment panel will evaluate applications based on their potential for economic impact, strength of local partnerships, and alignment with national priorities.
October 9, 2025