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Tag: 2025

  • PRESS RELEASE : Scottish Secretary to cut steal for £8m barge for MoD at Navantia [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Scotland Office on 28 August 2025.

    Work begins at Fife yard to build £8 million transport barge to be used for naval ships construction.

    • Project positions Methil yard for future defence work
    • 35 new jobs to be created, including 14 new apprenticeship positions

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray has officially cut the steel to start the fabrication of a new transport barge at Navantia UK’s facility in Methil in Fife.

    The barge is a strategic £8 million investment by Navantia UK. It will be used in the delivery of a contract to provide three Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships to the Royal Navy.

    Scotland is at the heart of the UK’s defence industry, keeping the UK safe at home and strong abroad, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change. The UK Government has committed to the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War. We will increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027, with an ambition to reach 3% in the next parliament. We are increasing spending on defence by £5 billion in this year alone.

    That commitment means a ‘defence dividend’ for Scotland and Scottish jobs. Our investment includes a £250 million upgrade of the Faslane submarine base and MoD shipbuilding on the Clyde and at Rosyth. In all, the MoD directly supports 25,800 jobs in Scotland.

    The Methil yard, and one in Arnish on the Western Isles, was formerly part of Harland & Wolff. It was taken over by Navantia UK in December 2024, in a deal backed by the UK Government and which guaranteed hundreds of Scottish jobs.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:

    “It is fantastic news that the team at Methil will be fabricating this barge which will play a key role in building three fleet support ships. Workers at the yard are highly skilled and will be playing a key role delivering in this important defence contract. I visited the yard last year just after the UK Government had helped broker the Navantia UK takeover, and I can’t wait to see the progress since then. Supporting Scottish industry is a key part of our Plan for Change – growing our economy and ensuring our nation’s security.”

    Matt Smith, Navantia UK’s General Manager at Methil, said:

    “This project is good news for Methil and our skilled workforce and it positions us to support future defence work. We’re particularly pleased to be able to continue our established apprenticeship programme and recruit more apprentices on the back of this award, ensuring we develop the next generation of skilled marine engineers.”

    Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard, said:

    “This project at Methil shows how our Armed Forces act as an engine for growth, driving economic opportunity across the UK and delivering on the government’s Plan for Change. Military capabilities like this barge create real economic benefits for Scottish communities whilst supporting our naval operations. The barge will support the Fleet Solid Support ships that keep our Carrier Strike Group supplied at sea, ensuring our Armed Forces have the tools they need to keep Britain safe at home and strong abroad.”

    Robert Deavy, GMB Scotland’s Senior Organiser in Engineering, said:

    “We welcome this clear progress towards a secure and sustainable future for a yard that is capable of playing an important role in Scotland’s industrial strategy. We are confident the positive change now underway in Methil can untap the full potential of a skilled and committed workforce.”

    Bob MacGregor, Unite Industrial Officer, said:

    “Unite warmly welcomes the expansion of the Navantia workforce at the Methil yard . The increase in new apprenticeships in particular is a great step forward for the yard which will construct a barge to assist with the delivery of three Royal Navy ships. It is a positive development which signals that the Methil yard and its highly skilled workforce remain critical to Scotland’s industrial base.”

    The purpose-built vessel will transport ship blocks between the company’s Appledore and Belfast facilities, facilitating construction of the support ships across multiple sites. Designed for long-term use, the barge will support not only this contract but future shipbuilding programmes as well.

    The barge will be 85 metres long and 25 metres wide – giving it a surface area equivalent to ten tennis courts – and it will weigh 1,400 tonnes. Bow sections of FSS ships will be built on board the barge, at Navantia UK’s Appledore shipyard in Devon, before being transported to Belfast.

    Building the barge represents an investment of £8 million by Navantia UK, which expects to expand the workforce at Methil to deliver the vessel, with 35 positions to be created.  The project enables the yard to continue with its apprenticeship programme with recruitment to begin immediately of 14 new apprentices.

    The work at Methil strengthens the site’s capabilities for future defence projects as Navantia UK continues to invest in upgrading facilities across all four of its yards. This project positions the facility to support other upcoming UK defence programmes, whilst also contributing to the company’s renewable energy work through Navantia Seanergies.

    The three Fleet Solid Support ships will provide vital support to the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group, supplying stores and ammunition to the UK’s aircraft carriers and their escort ships while at sea. As prime contractor for the FSS programme, Navantia UK is building three ships, with block manufacturing taking place across multiple sites and final integration and delivery at its Belfast shipyard.

    Since acquiring Harland & Wolff’s four sites in January 2025, Navantia UK has begun investing to enhance the UK sovereign capabilities in defence, maritime and energy sectors. Drawing on Navantia’s global expertise, the company is modernising facilities, transferring knowledge and implementing new technologies – strengthening UK industrial capacity.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Government puts nurses at heart of DNA testing and research [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government puts nurses at heart of DNA testing and research [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 28 August 2025.

    Government to create ground-breaking new genomics population health service, with nurses in leading roles.

    • Patients get improved access to life-saving DNA testing closer to home, as Plan for Change shifts healthcare out of hospitals and into community
    • Enhanced government funding and tailored career development will empower nurses to lead and deliver innovative health and care research into range of conditions

    Nurses across England will be trained as genomics champions in local communities to help patients get faster diagnoses and access life-saving treatment closer to home, as the government’s 10 Year Health Plan ramps up innovation in the NHS.

    The government is creating a new genomic population health service, building on the existing NHS Genomic Medicine Service (GMS), to enhance the identification, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of various conditions such as cancer, heart diseases, and rare genetic disorders – including kidney and neurological conditions – that can go undetected for years.

    These specially trained nurses – along with other NHS staff – will help guide patients and family members through genetic testing that can identify the inherited causes of major conditions like heart disease, cancer and rare genetic disorders.

    These nurses will identify patients suitable for genomic testing, supporting them to access genomic counselling if needed.

    This means genetic testing closer to home, reducing travel barriers and offering more convenient options for patients – as the Plan for Change shifts care out of hospitals and into the community.

    This approach is already starting to deliver benefits for patients. Dr Teofila Bueser, based at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust – who is Director of Nursing and Midwifery for the NHS South East Genomic Medicine Service Alliance and a researcher funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)— is already using ground-breaking genomics research to protect her patients from hidden heart conditions that could strike without warning.

    She facilitates genetic testing to spot inherited heart problems in her patients. Her research helps more people get heart health checks and genetic tests for conditions like irregular heartbeats and enlarged hearts that  run in families.

    Thanks to her research, the days of anxious waiting are ending for worried families. Her work means patients and their families can get tested faster and receive continued specialist support even when they are seen at their local hospital.

    Health Minister, Stephen Kinnock, said:

    Nurses are the backbone of our NHS and this government is committed to giving them more opportunities and unleashing their full potential.

    By creating new opportunities in genomic healthcare and research, we’re not only improving patient care but also creating fulfilling careers that recognise and use nurses’ invaluable expertise.

    Our 10 Year Health Plan is transforming our NHS into a service that’s truly fit for the future and puts nurses at the forefront of this revolution.

    Professor Dame Sue Hill, Chief Scientific Officer for England and the Senior Responsible Officer for Genomics in the NHS said:

    The establishment of a genomics population health service is an exciting and important development which builds on our world-leading NHS Genomic Medicine Service. It will enable more people to access genomic testing, not only for risk prediction and prevention, but also to help tackle the unmet needs of patients with undiagnosed conditions.

    Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, said:

    Nurses are at the heart of our NHS, and these advances will help ensure patients and communities benefit from nursing leadership in genomic medicine and research-led improvements.

    Our nursing workforce already includes well-established leaders in genomics and research and this represents an opportunity to strengthen and enhance the excellent work of our profession in these fields, recognising their expertise in healthcare innovation.

    Dr Teofila Bueser, Director of Nursing and Midwifery for the NHS South East GMS Alliance and an NIHR researcher said:

    Researching genomics has boosted my nursing career and given me the opportunity to tackle genetic heart conditions to help the thousands of people who suffer from them.

    I hope more nurses and midwives take up the opportunities for education, research and clinical academic careers in the field of genomics. By being leaders on genomics in the NHS, we can help give patients and families the genetic information they need to access better care and live longer,  more fulfilling lives.

    The government is also building on the Chief Nursing Officer for England’s strategic plan for research and enhancing the strong foundation of nursing in delivering and leading research through investments in the sector and partnership with national, regional and local nursing leaders.

    In 2024/25, over £10 million has been invested through NIHR to support nurses to develop their research and leadership skills and build their research careers.

    Examples of where this investment has led to improvements in research include:

    • Clinical Nurse Specialist Nancy Burridge, based in Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, led groundbreaking research using virtual reality headsets to help palliative care patients, showing significant reductions in pain and anxiety.
    • Nurse Consultant and suicide prevention lead Katherine McGleenan, based in Cumbria Northumberland Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust, led a study to save lives by developing personalised care plans for adults who might be thinking about suicide.
    • Clinical academic nurse Dr Takawira Marufu, based in Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust, whose research helps detect pressure injuries – such as ulcers, bedsores, blisters – among children from ethnic minorities.

    Support for nurses interested in developing research careers has been significantly expanded by NIHR through career development awards, attracting nurses from all settings into research and providing the training, mentorship and resources they need to become tomorrow’s research leaders.

    Nurses play a key role in clinical research trials, and these advancements will ensure that the NHS can harness their expertise to drive innovation and improve patient outcomes.

    Professor Lucy Chappell, Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and Chief Executive Officer of the NIHR said:

    Nurses are key to the country’s research workforce. In recent years, the NIHR has significantly increased research opportunities to enable more health and care professionals, including nurses, to build research into their careers.

    Through the 10 Year Health Plan, we have committed to go further, supporting nurses from all specialisms and in all settings to become research active, utilising their expertise to improve patient outcomes through research.

    Laura Rooney, Lead Research Nurse at Alzheimer’s Society, said:

    We welcome the Government’s initiative to invest in a dedicated research nurse workforce, to help drive healthcare innovation and expand the NHS’s ability to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care.

    One in three people born today in the UK will develop dementia in their lifetime – and only research will advance the breakthroughs urgently needed in dementia diagnosis and treatment.

    Adding further nurses to the frontline of research, Alzheimer’s Society will soon launch its own network of dementia research nurses, in collaboration with the UK Dementia Trials Network – which is funded by the Government – to embed research into everyday NHS dementia care.

    Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), said:

    If undetected and untreated, inherited heart conditions can be deadly and devastating for affected families. BHF research has discovered some of the faulty genes responsible for these frightening conditions and is evaluating novel approaches to correct them but there’s more to do to prevent future tragedies. That’s why we’ve worked for years with NHS England, the Chief Coroner and other partners to make it easier for families to access genetic testing, and it is encouraging to see the Government’s ambition to expand genetic testing at a population level. When fully established, the genomic population health service will bring cutting-edge science into routine clinical care to help reduce the number of preventable premature deaths.

  • PRESS RELEASE : 24/7 GPS tags lead crackdown on burglary, theft and robbery [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : 24/7 GPS tags lead crackdown on burglary, theft and robbery [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 28 August 2025.

    Reoffending by burglars, robbers and thieves has been cut by 20 percent thanks to the tracking of their movements with tags, a new report has found.

    • GPS tags cut reoffending rates of criminals by 20%, new report shows
    • Tech tracks movements of offenders which is mapped to unsolved crime
    • New statistics show record high of 20,000 on tags as part of Plan for Change

    Reoffending by burglars, robbers and thieves has been cut by 20 percent thanks to the tracking of their movements with tags, a new report published today (August 28) has found.

    The study shows those forced to wear a GPS tag on release from prison were significantly more like to stay on the straight and narrow, meaning less crime, fewer victims and safer streets.

    As part of the scheme, the movements of these offenders are monitored and mapped against the locations of recent unsolved burglaries, robberies or thefts.

    Any matches are shared with the police to help them investigate the crime and potential suspects, meaning the tag serves as a powerful deterrent to reoffending.

    By harnessing innovative tech, this project is helping to protect communities and support smarter policing, part of the Government’s Plan for Change to make our streets safer.

    Eliminating suspects early on through GPS tagging has also freed up police to focus on other suspects and investigate more crimes, with the evidence suggesting that the pilot helped police to avoid carrying out roughly 16,000 unnecessary adult arrests over three years.

    The findings come as the latest figures showed that almost 20,000 offenders and defendants were wearing an electronic tag as of June 2025, a record high.

    Tagging will be ramped up even further as part of the Government’s sentencing reforms with the annual probation budget increased by up to £700 million by 2028, to tag thousands more offenders.

    Minister of State for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, Lord Timpson, said:

    The evidence is clear that tagging works, acting as a constant reminder to thieves and burglars that we are watching their every move and will know if they reoffend.

    We are increasing the use of tagging as part of our Plan for Change to toughen punishment, prevent crime and make our streets safer.

    The pilot deliberately targets “acquisitive” crimes such as burglary, theft and robbery, which are offence types which have among the worst charge and conviction rates.

    Evidence suggests the pilot acted as an effective deterrent, with just 160 out of 3,360 offenders convicted due to their movements being mapped to unsolved crimes.

    The technology also allows probation staff to keep a much closer eye on the whereabouts of offenders under their supervision so they are better able to prevent them from falling back into a life of crime.

    Last week it was revealed that the number of probation officers has increased by seven per cent in the last 12 months, with trainee officer numbers also seeing a surge of 15 per cent.

    This follows a pledge by the Lord Chancellor to recruit an additional 1,300 Probation Officers by March 2026 as part of a major boost of support for the Probation Service.

    Alan, an offender who is currently on a GPS tag, said:

    The second that tag went on my ankle I had that feeling that someone was watching me every second of the day.

    It let me get on with my life knowing if I fell back into my old habits I could be back in a jail cell.

    Evidence is increasingly proving the effectiveness of tags as a robust way to closely monitor offenders in the community, therefore cutting crime and protecting victims.

    A report in March 2025 found that offenders on curfew tags, which keep offenders at home and off the streets during certain times, were also 20% less likely to commit another crime.

    Meanwhile statistics show offenders wearing alcohol tags, which monitor whether or not they are drinking, stay sober for 97% of the days they are tagged.

    The Government is also exploring broader uses of technology in the justice system to monitor offenders and reduce reoffending.

    Under the Ministry of Justice’s AI Action Plan, artificial intelligence will be used to assess offender risk and place dangerous individuals under tighter supervision—cutting crime and delivering swifter justice for victims.

    This follows the Government’s response to the Independent Sentencing Review, which recommended greater use of technology and community sentencing to address the inherited crisis in the prison system.

    Further information:

    • The Impact Evaluation of the Acquisitive Crime Electronic Monitoring Project: 12 Month+ Cohort found male prison leavers enrolled in the project were associated with a seven percentage point decline in the rate of reoffending within 12 months of release (from 33.2% to 26.2%). Read more here.
    • The Acquisitive Crime pilot began in 2021 and is currently available in 19 of 43 police force areas, namely; Avon & Somerset, Cheshire, Gloucestershire, Gwent, Humberside, West Midlands, Bedfordshire, City of London, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Durham, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Metropolitan Police, North Wales, Nottinghamshire and Sussex.
    • As of 02 June 2025, the total number of offenders and defendants fitted with an electronic monitoring device was 19,983. Read more here.
  • PRESS RELEASE : UK Scholarships Empower 80 Pakistani Future Leaders to Study at Leading British Universities [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : UK Scholarships Empower 80 Pakistani Future Leaders to Study at Leading British Universities [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 28 August 2025.

    Chosen for their leadership potential and commitment to driving positive change, they join a cohort of nearly 2,000 Chevening alumni and 1,500 Commonwealth alumni, working across all sectors including education, governance, health, and climate action.

    This year, 32 Chevening Scholars will begin their academic journeys pursuing fully funded master’s degrees in the UK. The cohort includes over 60% women, and representation from nearly all of Pakistan’s provinces. This year’s cohort includes a scholar funded by Mansion house to study MSc Business Analytics from University College London.

    In addition, 48 Commonwealth Scholars have been selected to study at leading UK institutions. This includes shared scholarships, master’s programmes, and PhD programmes, fully funded by the UK through the Commonwealth Scholarship. The British High Commission Islamabad marked the start of the scholars’ journey through a reception, celebrating their achievement.

    British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott CMG, OBE said:

    These scholars are embarking on a journey of a lifetime. They will have access to the best minds and opportunities. What’s more, when they return, they will join a powerful global network of accomplished Chevening and Commonwealth alumni who are creating real change worldwide.

    Rida Tariq, an incoming Chevening Scholar, shared her motivation:

    For me Chevening is not just a scholarship, it’s a platform for collaboration and a chance to connect with a global community of leaders dedicated to making a real difference. I am eager to learn from diverse perspectives, build lasting relationships, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to bring meaningful change in Pakistan.

    Future leaders can now apply for Chevening scholarships to study a one-year Masters degree in the UK, and Chevening fellowships including the 2-month long South Asia Journalism Programme (SAJP) and 5-month long Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies fellowship (OCIS). Applications will close on October 7, 2025. Applications for Commonwealth Scholarships will open later this year.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Almost 1 in 5 children starting primary school are not fully protected against several serious diseases [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Almost 1 in 5 children starting primary school are not fully protected against several serious diseases [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the UK Health Security Agency on 28 August 2025.

    UKHSA and NHS England call for parents and healthcare workers to catch up on children’s missed vaccinations as schools start the autumn term.

    UKHSA and NHS England are today asking parents to check their child’s vaccine records and catch up on any missed vaccinations with their GP practice. The call comes as the new school term starts and new data shows that whilst most children are fully vaccinated by the time they start school, many are still left unvaccinated and vulnerable to catching serious illnesses.

    The latest annual uptake data on childhood vaccines (April 2024-March 2025) published today by the UK Health Security Agency, shows 18.6% of children, almost 1 in 5, have not received their pre-school booster jab.

    The data reports on children who turned 5 between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025. In England over the last 10 years, the coverage or uptake rates for the pre-school booster peaked at 86.3% in 2015 to 2016. The latest data, at 81.4%, is nearly 5% lower than the peak. Outside of London, the coverage for England was 85.0%.

    The 4-in-1 pre-school booster helps protect against 4 serious illnesses – polio, whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria. Given from 3 years 4 months of age, the vaccine boosts the protection provided by previous vaccines given to babies. It ensures children have the essential protection they need when starting primary school. Without this booster, children are not fully protected.

    The ‘6-in-1’ vaccine is offered to babies aged 18 months. Uptake measured at 5 years in England has increased by 0.2% to 92.8%. This increase is encouraging, and healthcare professionals are urging further progress towards reaching the peak of 95.6% over the last 10 years (2016 to 2017). A further 2.8% increase is needed to reach the peak level.

    NHS England and regional ICB teams have continued the drive to encourage parents to vaccinate their children including hosting extra clinics, catch up opportunities in schools and localised outreach projects to target low uptake areas across the country. Early results from today’s released data indicates that the decline in the MMR1 vaccine has stabilised with 91.8% receiving their first dose by age 5 years.

    Childhood vaccination coverage varies significantly geographically and continues to be lowest for all the uptake indicators in London.

    In England, areas (upper tier local authorities) in the north consistently perform better than other areas. Pre-school booster rates for Cumbria (now 2 unitary authorities, Cumberland Council and Westmoreland and Furness Council) is at 94.3%, Country Durham and East Riding of Yorkshire – 93.7%, Barnsley – 92.8% and Northumberland – 92.3%; compared with the overall England coverage of 81.4%.

    Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Immunisation at UK Health Security Agency, said:

    Ensuring all our children starting primary school are fully protected is essential to keep them safe and give them the best opportunity to thrive at school. We know that most parents want to do what is best for their children and do have confidence and trust in NHS childhood vaccinations, which save thousands of lives and prevent tens of thousands of hospital admissions every year. But it can be hard juggling busy lives and work, finding time to book and get to the GP appointments.

    Far too many children will not be fully protected and safe when starting school and are at risk of serious diseases, such as measles and whooping cough, that have in recent years caused outbreaks. Measles, being the most infectious disease, is the ‘canary in the coalmine’ and a wake-up call that urgent action is needed to stop the very real risk of other diseases re-emerging.

    That is why there needs to be a concerted effort in providing these vitally important vaccines, to make time to speak and reassure any parents who may have concerns and make it as easy as possible for their children to get vaccinated.

    Parents should check their children are up to date with all their jabs and, if not, contact their GP practice as soon as possible.

    Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said:

    Too many children are starting primary school without complete protection against preventable and potentially serious illnesses like measles, whooping cough and mumps.

    We know parents want to do right by their children and we’re working with the NHS to make it easier for all families to access these life-saving vaccines.

    Vaccines save thousands of lives every year and prevent countless hospital admissions. I urge all parents to check their child’s vaccination record and contact their GP practice if any jabs are missing.

    Latest data on Vaccine-preventable diseases is available on the UKHSA Dashboard.

    More information on vaccinations is available at nhs.uk/vaccinations.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Regulator to investigate Sikh charities after failure to comply with Orders [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Regulator to investigate Sikh charities after failure to comply with Orders [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Charity Commission on 28 August 2025.

    The Charity Commission has opened a statutory inquiry into two charities connected to the Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Wednesfield, which were set up for the advancement of the Sikh religion in the area.

    Unregistered charity Guru Nanak Gurdwara (also known as the Nanak Sikh Temple, amongst other names) was established in 1980, while the Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Wednesfield was registered with the Charity Commission as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in 2024.

    The Commission had previously opened a regulatory compliance case due to concerns raised by some of the Gurdwara’s congregation about the trustees’ oversight of the established, unregistered charity. Further concerns were raised by the formation and registration of a new CIO by some of those trustees.

    Trustees of both charities have failed to comply with regulatory guidance and with information gathering Orders of the Commission related to these concerns.

    The unregistered charity failed to comply with the Commission’s Order for it to apply to become a registered charity, as required by law, by 23 April 2025. However, it has since submitted a registration application to the Commission.

    A failure to comply with an Order of the Charity Commission is misconduct and / or mismanagement in the administration of a charity.

    The Commission escalated its engagement with both the CIO and the related, unregistered charity to a statutory inquiry in June 2025.

    The inquiry will examine if the trustees are complying with their legal duties and responsibilities in respect of the administration, governance, and management of both charities with particular regard to:

    • the conduct of the trustees and whether the charities are being managed in accordance with their governing documents
    • whether there are appropriate controls in place to ensure the charities’ assets are protected
    • the extent to which the trustees have complied with previously issued regulatory guidance and orders
    • if there has been any misconduct and/or mismanagement by the trustees in the administration of the charities.

    The Commission may extend the scope of the inquiry if additional regulatory issues emerge.

    ENDS

    Notes for Editors

    1. The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society.
    2. On 20 June 2025, the Charity Commission opened a statutory inquiry into both the CIO and the related unregistered charity, Guru Nanak Gurdwara, also known as the Nanak Sikh Temple, amongst other names.
    3. The unregistered charity submitted a registration application to the Commission on 1 August 2025.
    4. Under section 46 of the Charities Act 2011 a statutory inquiry is a legal power enabling the Commission to formally investigate matters of regulatory concern within a charity and to use protective powers for the benefit of the charity and its beneficiaries, assets, or reputation. An inquiry will investigate and establish the facts of the case so that the Commission can determine the extent of any misconduct and/or mismanagement; the extent of the risk to the charity, its work, property, beneficiaries, employees or volunteers; and decide what action is needed to resolve the concerns.
    5. Failure to comply with an Order of the Commission is misconduct and / or mismanagement in the administration of a charity in accordance with section 76(1) of the Charities Act 2011.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Permanent Council Decision on closure of the OSCE Minsk structures – UK statement to the OSCE [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Permanent Council Decision on closure of the OSCE Minsk structures – UK statement to the OSCE [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 26 August 2025.

    Chargé d’Affaires James Ford congratulates Armenia and Azerbaijan on the recent progress made towards a peace agreement, and confirms UK support for the adoption of a Permanent Council Decision on the closure of the OSCE Minsk structures.

    The United Kingdom congratulates Armenia and Azerbaijan on the recent progress made in their peace process, including during the summit held in Washington on 8 August. The meeting between President Aliyev and Prime Minister Pashinyan, culminating in the signing of a Joint Declaration, marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of lasting peace in the South Caucasus. We also congratulate the US for its leadership and commitment in helping to facilitate this breakthrough.

    The UK commends the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan for their courage and commitment to reconciliation, and we thank the staff in the OSCE structures for their decades of dedicated mediation and support. The UK encourages both sides to work constructively towards the full signature of a peace agreement and to remain steadfast in their commitment to long-term peace and stability.

    We also encourage continued collaboration between Armenia, Azerbaijan and the OSCE in areas of mutual interest, including confidence-building, regional stability, and human rights. The UK stands ready to support future efforts that promote peace, prosperity and cooperation in the region.

    The UK therefore fully supports the Permanent Council Decision recommending the adoption of a Ministerial Council Decision on the closure of the OSCE Minsk structures, including the financial resources and procedures set out by the Finnish Chairpersonship-in-Office in response to the Joint Appeal by the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan circulated on 11 August.

    Thank you, Madam Chair.

  • PRESS RELEASE : ‘Honour’-based abuse crackdown in raft of new measures [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : ‘Honour’-based abuse crackdown in raft of new measures [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Home Office on 26 August 2025.

    Victims and survivors of ‘honour’-based abuse will be kept safer and more perpetrators brought to justice in a raft of new measures, as part of the government’s pledge to halve violence against women and girls and the Plan for Change.

    New statutory guidance and a legal definition of ‘honour’-based abuse will be brought in to help the police, social workers and others better support victims and make clear that frontline staff must take these crimes seriously. It will also help stop vital information, which could hold perpetrators to account in a criminal trial, from falling through the cracks.

    On top of the new guidance, the National Centre for Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) will work with the police to improve how officers assess the risks posed by ‘honour’-based abuse offenders, so they can step in and support victims as soon as possible. This year, that work will focus on identifying challenges alongside what works to identify areas for improvement.

    To unearth the full scale of ‘honour’-based abuse, the Home Office will pilot a prevalence study looking at how widespread this crime is, and a community awareness campaign will be launched to encourage victims to come forward.

    Teachers, police officers, social workers and healthcare professionals will also receive more training to help them better spot the signs of ‘honour’-based abuse and know how to deal with suspected cases.

    These measures have been backed by the charity Karma Nirvana and 22 other specialist ‘honour’-based abuse organisations. The mother of Fawziyah Javed has also welcomed the changes after her daughter’s tragic murder in 2021. Fawziyah was pushed off Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, Scotland by her husband. At the time of her death, Fawziyah was pregnant and she had planned to leave the marriage.

    Recent statistics showed that 2,755 ‘honour’-based abuse related offences were recorded by the police in England and Wales. For too long, these devastating crimes which include ‘honour’-motivated killings, female genital mutilation and forced marriage, have been allowed to happen in the shadows.

    Today’s measures are the latest step in the government’s efforts to tackle ‘honour’-based abuse. Earlier this year, the joint Home Office and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Forced Marriage Unit launched a new mission statement and action plan with the aim of improving all operations so the unit can continue to provide the best possible support to victims of forced marriage and the professionals who help them.

    This remains a vital part of the government’s efforts to tackle forced marriage, a debilitating and devastating form of ‘honour’-based abuse, so victims can be supported at home and overseas.

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

    All forms of ‘honour’-based abuse are devastating crimes that can shatter lives. There is no ‘honour’ in them. For too long, these offences have often been misunderstood by professionals, resulting in victims not getting the support they deserve.

    Today we are announcing measures to put an end to this and shining a light on this debilitating abuse. This marks a crucial step in this government’s landmark mission to halve violence against women and girls within a decade and its Plan for Change.

    Make no mistake – we will use everything at our disposal to make sure perpetrators face justice and victims are protected.

    Jess Phillips, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls, said:

    These crimes can cause unimaginable long lasting physical and mental pain for their victims. They have no place in our society and we must do everything we can to put a stop to them.

    This starts with a clearer definition of the crime and guidance backed in law so that the government, law enforcement and the voluntary sector can work hand in hand to give victims the support they deserve.

    It is also vital that we understand the true scale and nature of these crimes in England and Wales. This will enable us and our partners to help make sure that more victims are protected and more perpetrators face time behind bars.

    This is the latest step in our mission to halve violence against women and girls, as part of the Plan for Change.

    Yasmin Javed, mother of Fawziyah Javed, said:

    As Fawziyah’s mother, I am pleased that the government has listened to our calls for a statutory definition of ‘honour’-based abuse, and that this change has been made in Fawziyah’s memory. I hope that this will help many more people affected by HBA and ensure that the multiple perpetrators of this abuse are properly recognised and addressed.

    Natasha Rattu, Executive Director of Karma Nirvana, said:

    Today marks a landmark moment in how ‘Honour’-Based Abuse is understood and responded to in this country. For years, Karma Nirvana and survivors have called for a statutory definition, and its introduction is a powerful recognition of their voices.

    This step will mean victims are no longer overlooked but seen, heard, and supported, while professionals are better equipped to act. Alongside investment in awareness, training, and the national helpline, this change, in Fawziyah’s memory, has the potential to save countless lives and protect future generations.

    Payzee Mahmod, survivor and campaigner, said:

    I welcome the government’s commitment to introducing a statutory definition of so-called ‘honour’-based abuse, alongside multi-agency statutory guidance.

    As someone who has lost my sister, Banaz to an ‘honour’ killing and as a survivor of child marriage and “honour” based abuse myself, I know how vital it is that professionals from the police to social workers and teachers have the clarity and tools they need to recognise this abuse and act quickly to protect those at risk.

    This step represents meaningful progress towards better safeguarding and ensuring that survivors are properly seen, heard, and supported. It is crucial that this commitment is upheld and delivered at the earliest opportunity, so that no one has to suffer in silence or fall through the gaps in our systems.

    I am proud to have campaigned for this change, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside government, statutory agencies, and partners to ensure that survivors are protected and that we move closer to a future free from abuse.

    Assistant Chief Constable Emma James, national policing lead for Honour-Based Abuse, said:

    So-called ‘honour’-based abuse is a complex crime which often happens within community or family networks that many victims find it very difficult to speak out against and can face further threats, violence, or isolation if they do.

    That’s why it’s so important that policing works closely with other agencies to identify abuse and protect victims at the earliest opportunity. We welcome the announcements from the government today that will help policing pay its part in protecting the most vulnerable in our communities.

    Victims’ Commissioner, Baroness Newlove, said:

    So-called ‘honour’-based abuse is a devastating crime, often leaving victims terrorised, isolated, and controlled by the very family and community that should be protecting them. The introduction of a statutory definition is a welcome and crucial next step in strengthening our collective response to this serious and complex abuse.

    The accompanying package of measures will ensure this crime is tackled in a joined-up way, helping victims access the support they need to flee and stay safe.

    This victory has been hard won by campaigners, families and survivors alike. I applaud their tireless dedication and commend the government for taking this critical step.

    Jaswant Narwal, Crown Prosecution Service National Lead for ‘honour’-based abuse, said:

    We welcome the Home Office’s announcement to develop a statutory ‘honour’-based abuse definition. When introduced, it will provide clarity, consistency and confidence in the way these crimes are identified and brought through the criminal justice system. We are dedicated to working with government agencies, stakeholders, and survivors to improve the way we bring abusers to justice and break the silence against these crimes which are too-often hidden in plain sight.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Rapists given more jail time after Solicitor General intervenes [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Rapists given more jail time after Solicitor General intervenes [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 28 August 2025.

    Rapists and sex offenders saw their sentences increased under the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP intervened.

    Under the ULS scheme, anyone can ask the Law Officers to review a sentence where they believe the sentence imposed by the court is unduly lenient.

    The latest quarterly data shows that between April and June 2025, 34 sentences were increased under the ULS scheme following the Solicitor General’s referral, and 13 of these were for rape offences.

    The largest sentence increase was for Adrian Revill, who had his three-year sentence tripled to nine years and six months’. Revill was imprisoned for repeatedly sexually abusing an underage teenager.

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    “Rape is a horrific offence, which can often leave lifelong trauma for victims.

    “As this Government’s Solicitor General, I will continue to support victims to ensure perpetrators are properly published for their crimes.”

    Sentence increases for rapists and sexual predators during this period included:

    • Haider Ali, from Middlesborough, had his sentence increased by five years from an extended sentence of 12 years compromising of 10 years’ imprisonment with a licence extension of two years, to 17 years comprising of 15 years’ imprisonment with a license extension of two years for attacking and raping two women on the same night.
    • Gagandeep Gulati, from Hounslow, West London, had his sentence increased from six years to nine years for raping a woman, filming it, and sharing the footage with others.
    • Anthony Williams, from Gloucester, had his sentence increased for approaching women online and pretending to be a professional photographer. He then lured women to his flat, encouraging them to undress, and sexually assaulted them. His sentence was increased from eight years’ imprisonment to 12 years.
    • Ibrar Hussain, 47, and brothers Imtiaz and Fayaz Ahmed, aged 62 and 45, from Keighley all had their sentences increased for sexually abusing a vulnerable girl in the 1990s in Keighley.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Government clears path for almost 100,000 homes [August 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Government clears path for almost 100,000 homes [August 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 26 August 2025.

    The New Homes Accelerator has helped to remove blockages and speed up the building of almost 100,000 homes across England.

    • First year of operation sees expert team removing blockages and speeding up the building of almost 100,000 homes across England
    • The North West, London, Somerset and the South East next to benefit as six new priority large sites added to flagship New Homes Accelerator initiative, unlocking and accelerating delivery on another 12,000 homes
    • Over the Parliament, the Accelerator is expected to make a significant contribution to meeting the ambitious Plan for Change commitment of building 1.5 million homes and boosting economic growth

    Nearly 100,000 new homes on large developments previously stuck in the planning system, or which were simply not progressing as fast as they should be, are now being given support to progress more quickly.

    The New Homes Accelerator has addressed challenges that were holding back development on scores of large consented sites across the country by leveraging resource and expertise available to government and its housing and regeneration agency, Homes England.

    Working families and young people will benefit as homes to buy and rent are built more quickly thanks to this important government intervention – helping more people get on the housing ladder, tackling the housing crisis while creating local jobs and boosting economic growth.

    The New Homes Accelerator – a specialist programme established last year to get spades in the ground more quickly by cutting through barriers to rapid development – has already intervened through targeted support, including providing local areas with additional planning capacity and removing regulatory hurdles, to help speed up the delivery of 36,000 new homes across England that were not building out as fast as they should have.

    The team has also driven forward planning proposals for another 63,000 homes through close engagement with arms-length bodies and other government departments, helping to unlock growth and make a real difference for future generations.

    The expert team will now tackle specific problems on six new sites including Comeytrowe, also known as Orchard Grove, in Somerset, Wisley Airfield in Guildford, North Leigh Park in Wigan and Hampden Fields in Aylesbury, alongside two further sites confirmed in London, at Billet Road and High Road West. Together, targeted support through the Accelerator will expedite the delivery of over 12,000 homes with at least 25% affordable housing across all sites.

    The intervention supports wider government reforms to tackle the country’s housing crisis and deliver our 1.5 million homes Plan for Change mission. The government also overhauled the National Planning Policy Framework, pushed forward with the Planning and Infrastructure Bill and invested £39 billion into the Social and Affordable Homes Programme.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner said:

    “We’ve rolled up our sleeves and are breaking down the barriers which stop us from building the houses to buy and rent that families and young people need, helping to speed up the delivery of tens of thousands of new homes already.

    “We are continuing to take decisive action through our New Homes Accelerator to speed up the delivery of homes, meet our stretching 1.5 million homes target through the Plan for Change, and get spades in the ground to turn the tide on the housing crisis.”

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said:

    “I’m pleased the government is working with London boroughs to unblock housebuilding as part of its plan to deliver the good growth our country needs. I’m determined to use all the powers at my disposal to build the homes Londoners need and get Britain building again.

    “I look forward to working with Ministers on the action and investment needed to accelerate the delivery of new homes as we continue building a better, fairer London for everyone.”

    Since it was launched by the Deputy Prime Minister in August 2024, the programme has focused on removing the planning and regulatory bottlenecks, enabling thousands of potential housing developments to progress more quickly.

    Breakthrough progress is already happening at sites such as Worcestershire Parkway where 4,500 homes will be delivered, with the New Homes Accelerator working hand-in-hand with councils and housebuilders to fast-track delivery.

    At the Wisley Airfield site in Guildford, the Accelerator has already helped Taylor Wimpey start on site by facilitating quick responses from statutory consultees, providing strategic support to the local planning authority, getting spades in the ground and begin work on the necessary infrastructure.

    This site will deliver three new neighbourhoods of 1,730 homes, of which 40% will be Affordable Homes, and includes shops, sports and social facilities, as well as a school surrounded by a large public park.

    Further information

    The New Homes Accelerator is working across government to engage with arms-length bodies and other departments to streamline the delivery of housing and infrastructure, ensuring progress through the planning process, which has already helped to remove blockages in the system.

    New sites set to benefit from the latest New Homes Accelerator support include:

    • At Wisley Airfield in Guildford.
    • At Hampden Fields in Aylesbury.
    • At Comeytrowe Garden Community, also known as Orchard Grove, in Somerset.
    • At North Leigh Park in Wigan.
    • At Billet Road in Redbridge, London.
    • At High Road West in Haringey, London.