UKPOL.CO.UK

Tag: Press Release

  • PRESS RELEASE : Two rapists have their sentences increased after Solicitor General intervenes [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Two rapists have their sentences increased after Solicitor General intervenes [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Attorney General’s Office on 9 April 2025.

    Two rapists have had their sentences increased by the Court of Appeal after their cases were referred by the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP.

    The Solicitor General has secured sentence increases in two separate cases where the offenders committed sexual abuse.

    In the first case, Paul Watson, 45, from Chorley, over a four-month period between January and April 2024, coerced and controlled a woman, and carried out multiple rapes.

    The court heard that the victim submitted to the offender because she was terrified for her own safety.

    In a separate case, Anthony McNamara, 46, from County Durham, groomed and repeatedly raped a young person for several years. The offending began when the victim was 12.

    Following his arrest by the police in May 2024, McNamara was told not to contact the victim. However, he breached his bail conditions and continued to groom and engage in sexual activity with the victim.

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said:

    I am sickened to read about these rapists’ crimes, who both repeatedly preyed on their victims and inflicted terror upon them.

    I am glad that the court has rightly decided to increase both of these sentences, and my thoughts today are with the victims who suffered unimaginable abuse.

    On 3 April 2025, Watson’s 17-year sentence was quashed, and the court imposed a sentence of life imprisonment, following the Solicitor General’s decision to refer it to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme.

    On 3 April 2025, Anthony McNamara’s 13-year sentence was substituted for a total sentence of 23 years, comprising of 18 years custodial term and a 5-year extended license.

  • PRESS RELEASE : One million NHS staff to benefit from new support measures [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : One million NHS staff to benefit from new support measures [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Health and Social Care on 9 April 2025.

    Government delivers on promise to support frontline staff with new action to tackle violence, improve working lives and enhance career progression.

    • Measures include improved reporting and prevention of violence and aggression in the workplace as incidents against healthcare workers reach alarming levels
    • New measures will make sure staff are paid correctly for the work they are asked to deliver

    Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, will today announce a comprehensive support package to tackle violence and improve the working lives of NHS staff.

    The measures are part of a range of recommendations accepted by the government under the Agenda for Change contract – which covers over a million frontline NHS workers – following the agreement of the 2023 pay deal.

    Violence against healthcare workers has become a critical issue, with the 2024 NHS Staff Survey revealing that one in seven experienced physical violence from patients, their relatives or other members of the public.

    A quarter of NHS staff experienced at least one incident of harassment, bullying or abuse in the last 12 months. Many incidents currently go unreported, hampering efforts to address the problem systematically.

    New measures will be put in place to encourage staff to report incidents of violence or aggression towards them, and to ensure this information is collected at national level. Data will also be analysed to better understand if certain staff groups – whether by race, gender, disability status, or role – face disproportionate risks, allowing trusts to protect the most vulnerable workers.

    In a keynote speech to UNISON’s National Health Care Service Group Conference in Liverpool, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said:

    No one should go to work fearing violence. Yet one in every seven people employed by the NHS have suffered violence at the hands of patients, their relatives, or other members of the public.

    Protecting staff from violence is not an optional extra. Zero tolerance for violence and harassment of NHS staff. It’s a commitment to make sure healthcare workers can focus on saving lives without fear for their own safety.

    I owe my life to the NHS staff who cared for me through kidney cancer. I owe a debt of gratitude that I will never be able to repay, but I certainly intend to try. You were there for me, and I’ll be there for you.

    The package of measures will also address longstanding issues around ensuring staff are paid correctly for the work they deliver. Staff being routinely required to work beyond their job description with no compensation has led to a number of local disputes, such as those relating to clinical support worker roles in the Midlands at Kettering General Hospital and University Hospitals of Leicester.

    The Department of Health and Social Care is working closely with NHS England, NHS Employers and the Staff Council to implement a national digital system to support the fair and consistent application of the Job Evaluation Scheme.

    This will ensure staff are placed in the appropriate pay band recognising the skills and knowledge required for the role.

    Further measures include:

    • enhanced career progression support for nurses such as more learning and development, leadership training and career coaching for managers
    • new guidance for employers on how to recognise overseas experience on appointment into the NHS and share best practice on recruitment and selection processes
    • steps to reduce reliance on expensive agency workers by making it easier for NHS staff to take up flexible working and developing good practice guidance on working patterns for existing staff
    • encouraging six-month career reviews tailored specifically for ethnic minority nurses to identify progression pathways and provide targeted interview preparation support

    In total, 36 recommendations have been accepted by ministers. These measures are expected to have a considerable and positive impact on the NHS workforce, improve staff morale and enhance recruitment and retention.

  • PRESS RELEASE : Change of British High Commissioner to Mauritius – Paul Brummell [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Change of British High Commissioner to Mauritius – Paul Brummell [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 9 April 2025.

    Mr Paul Brummell CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Mauritius in succession to Ms Charlotte Pierre who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mr Brummell will take up his appointment during July 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full name: Paul Brummell

    Year Role
    2021 to present Riga, His Majesty’s Ambassador
    2018 to 2021 FCDO, Head of Soft Power and External Affairs Department
    2014 to 2018 Bucharest, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2013 to 2014 Pre-posting training (including Romanian language training)
    2009 to 2013 Bridgetown, British High Commissioner to the Eastern Caribbean
    2005 to 2009 Astana, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2002 to 2005 Ashgabat, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
    2001 FCO, Afghanistan Emergency Unit
    2000 to 2001 FCO, Deputy Head of Eastern Department
    1995 to 2000 Rome, First Secretary (Political, Press and Public Affairs)
    1993 to 1994 FCO, Environment, Science and Energy Department
    1992 New York, Conference Support Officer, UK Mission to the United Nations
    1989 to 1992 Islamabad, Third later Second Secretary (Political)
    1988 to 1989 FCO, South America Department
    1988 FCO, Research Department
    1987 Joined FCO
  • PRESS RELEASE : Museums can now apply for £20 million of funding to invest in their future [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Museums can now apply for £20 million of funding to invest in their future [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 9 April 2025.

    Treasured civic museums supported with new £20 million grant to help safeguard access to local culture and secure their futures.

    • Funding will ensure museums can continue to serve communities, care for and share collections, and tell our national story at a local level
    • Support will boost access to culture, delivering the government’s Plan for Change by increasing opportunities for all

    Museums across England can now apply for a share of £20 million to safeguard community access to their collections and invest in upgrading their services.

    The new £20 million Museum Renewal Fund, which is now open to applications, is designed to support valued regional museums, with a local authority link. It will improve public access to collections and buildings, as well as community and educational programmes which will help ensure they are fit for the future.

    These museums help keep memories alive across generations through their broad, diverse public collections. As well as being a crucial resource for schools, they help communities to connect with their local story by highlighting an area’s distinctive industrial, archaeological, natural and artistic heritage.

    The money will boost community programmes, support and grow schools activities, driving more visitors to museums. It will also enhance revenue generation, investing in organisational change and IT upgrades, whilst also supporting jobs in the local community.

    This follows the announcement from the Culture Secretary last month of the £270 million Arts Everywhere Fund, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change to boost economic growth and increase opportunities for people across the country.

    Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    Our local and civic museums are the storytellers of our nation’s history, with a shared mission to educate, inspire and entertain.

    They are key to preserving our national heritage at a local level through their collections and creative programmes, which draw in thousands of people from across the country, driving the growth and opportunity central to our Plan for Change. I am delighted that we have been able to provide this support, helping them to continue to flourish.

    The programme will be delivered by Arts Council England and will run from April 2025 until March 2026. It will be open to regional and local museums, with a funding or governance link to a local authority, across England to support them to safeguard access and services and invest in resilience measures.

    The government is committed to working in partnership with local councils and leaders, as co-investors in culture.

    Sir Nicholas Serota, Chair, Arts Council England, commented:

    Regional museums make a vitally important contribution to the way people engage with culture where they live and gain a deeper understanding of their communities and place. It is therefore vital that access to their collections is protected for generations to come. The Museum Renewal Fund will help these cherished institutions address immediate pressures and enable them to look ahead and plan a sustainable future serving their communities.

    Notes to editors:

    • In February, Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy announced more than £270 million in funding for arts venues, museums, libraries and the heritage sector in a major boost for growth.
    • The online portal to apply for the Museum Renewal Fund will open at 10am on 9 April 2025. Full guidance, including eligibility criteria and details of how to apply can be found on the Arts Council England website.
    • This Fund is intended to safeguard public access to nationally and regionally significant collections at risk, as set out in the eligibility criteria. Museum Renewal grantees will be expected to undertake additional work to boost business and financial sustainability beyond 31 March 2026.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Overhaul of local audit will restore trust in broken system [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Overhaul of local audit will restore trust in broken system [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on 9 April 2025.

    • Road to recovery outlined in new commitments for local audit reform to streamline and fix the fragmented and broken system
    • Reform will ensure local authorities get their books in order to restore transparency, provide better value for taxpayers and create effective public early warning system
    • And up to £49 million in funding announced to support local authorities in clearing the backlog as part of the Plan for Change

    New reforms to repair the ‘broken’ local audit system will boost taxpayers’ confidence  in council spending and streamline the sector so it’s fit-for-purpose, legal and decent.

    Today, 16 commitments have been set out to achieve this, including simplifying financial reporting requirements and increasing capacity to avoid reliance on a small number of auditors.

    The reforms will be backed by up to £49 million of support to help councils clear their backlogs and cover the additional cost of restoring audit assurance. Releasing funds to councils will be reliant on compliance with statutory backstops and linked to the publication of audited accounts and audit fees being paid.

    In addition, a further £15m of grant was paid to local bodies in March 2025 as part of an existing package to help meet the wider costs of meeting audit requirements and fees.

    Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE said:

    We inherited a broken local audit system, not fit for purpose, inefficient, fragmented and with a massive backlog.

    Taxpayers’ expect and deserve to have confidence in the way their money is being spent locally.  A functioning local audit system is the bedrock of local transparency and accountability so we are fixing the foundations of local government as part of our Plan for Change.

    We are working in lock-step with local bodies to clear the backlog and move towards a simplified streamlined system.

    The 16 new measures follow an open consultation on the local audit strategy, which attracted hundreds of responses.

    The measures build on an existing commitment to set up the Local Audit Office as an independent and unified body, which will stop fragmentation in the system by co-ordinating functions spread across different organisations including the Public Sector Audit Appointments Ltd, the National Audit Office and the Financial Reporting Council.

    These reforms will be crucial to fixing the foundations and bringing long-term stability to local government as committed in the Plan for Change.

    Further information:

    • Up to £49 million in funding for clearing the local audit backlog will be paid in two stages during 2025/26,  in the form of a non-ring-fenced grant. Allocations will be based on the size of bodies’ audit fees and the number of modified audit opinions received.   Allocations will be reviewed before the second stage of payments in 2025/26 to take into account revised cost estimates.
    • Funding of £15 million for 2024/25 was paid on 31 March  to eligible local government bodies towards the rise in audit fee expenditure. This includes allocations to 537 eligible bodies allocated as a proportion of Public Sector Audit Appointment fee scales.
    • The full government response to the local audit reform strategy consultation can be found on Gov.uk here.
    • Following the 13 December 2024 backstop, the system has taken a significant step forward. The vast majority of bodies (approximately 95%) published audited accounts for all years up to and including financial year 2022/23.
    • While the government has been clear the broken system requires fundamental long-term fixes that cannot happen overnight, decisive and immediate action has already begun. In July, we announced a series of backstop dates to clear the backlog of hundreds of missing and overdue accounts which resulted in 95% of audited accounts being published.
  • PRESS RELEASE : New Chief Scientific Adviser appointed [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : New Chief Scientific Adviser appointed [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on 9 April 2025.

    Professor Anjali Goswami has been appointed as the new Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

    Professor Goswami, who is currently a Research Leader in Evolutionary Biology at the Natural History Museum, will join the department from 1 July 2025. She will succeed Professor Gideon Henderson, who is leaving Defra after six years in the role.

    Professor Goswami is a celebrated scientist who has served as President of the Linnean Society of London and is a Fellow of the Royal Society. In addition to her academic achievements, she has authored a children’s book on palaeontology and received numerous prestigious awards, including the Zoological Society of London Scientific Medal, the Palaeontological Association President’s Medal, and the Humanists UK Darwin Day Medal.

    Defra Permanent Secretary, Tamara Finkelstein said:

    “World-leading science is fundamental to the research and development which underpins this department’s diverse responsibilities. I offer my sincere thanks to Gideon for his dedication and drive throughout his time at Defra for his scientific leadership and his wider leadership of the department.  He has been an inspiring colleague bringing his values and commitment to innovation to bear to the benefit of citizens.

    “Professor Goswami brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise from her career in academia and at the Natural History Museum. I am delighted to have her as part of the Defra leadership team, providing her science expertise both in Defra and the wider government scientific community.”

    Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed said:

    “I would like to thank Professor Henderson for his exceptional leadership and expert insight as Chief Scientific Adviser.

    “Supporting nature’s recovery, protecting people and animals from disease outbreaks, strengthening food security – all our key areas of focus rely on the world-class advice of our scientists. I welcome Professor Goswami and look forward to working with her as this government secures Britain’s future under the Plan for Change.”

    Professor Anjali Goswami said:

    “I am delighted to be joining Defra at this critical time for the UK and the planet.

    “The UK public is rightly concerned about the impacts of environmental degradation and climate change, which are increasingly evident in our everyday lives.  Fortunately, there is immense scientific innovation that can support Defra’s mission, from cleaning our waterways and restoring nature to improving the resilience of our rural communities and our food supply to global change.

    “I look forward to joining the Defra team and ensuring that the most cutting-edge scientific understanding is being harnessed to meet the complex challenges we face and deliver for the UK public.”

    Current Defra Chief Scientific Adviser, Professor Gideon Henderson said:

    “It’s been a challenging but hugely enjoyable privilege to be the Chief Scientific Advisor at Defra for the last six years.

    “The department can be proud of the way it values science and scientists as it cares for the air, water, food and natural environment that we all rely on.  I will miss working with passionate colleagues who make sure Defra’s wide range work is always informed by up-to-date and accurate science and analysis.

    “I am pleased to hand over to Anjali who will be a great leader of Defra’s scientific community.  She will bring a wealth of knowledge and insight and I’m confident will continue to put science and analysis at the heart of Defra’s work.”

    Professor Anjali Goswami Biography

    • Professor Anjali Goswami is a Research Leader in Evolutionary Biology at the Natural History Museum and President of the Linnean Society of London. Her previous roles include Dean of Postgraduate Education at the Natural History Museum and Professor of Palaeobiology at UCL.
    • Her research focuses on vertebrate evolution and development, with a focus on using mathematical approaches to understand the impact of life history and environmental change on biodiversity.
    • Professor Goswami was elected to the fellowship of the Royal Society of London in 2024 and has been awarded the Linnean Society Bicentenary Medal, the Zoological Society of London Scientific Medal, the Hind Rattan Award, the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology Robert L. Carroll award, the Palaeontological Association President’s Medal, and the Humanists UK Darwin Day Medal.

    Notes to editors

    • The Defra Chief Scientific Adviser is responsible for overseeing the quality of evidence that the Department relies on for policy decisions, providing ministers with scientific advice and setting the priorities for scientific research and evidence-gathering.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Rollout begins on new Employment Support programme with £40 million boost to West London [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Rollout begins on new Employment Support programme with £40 million boost to West London [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 9 April 2025.

    West London will today become the first of 47 areas across England and Wales set to receive dedicated five-year funding aimed at helping disabled people and those with health conditions and additional support needs into work.

    • West London becomes first area granted funding as part of DWP’s ‘Connect to Work’ programme, which will ultimately support 100,000 people per year.
    • The £42.8 million cash injection will fund five years of support for local disabled people and those with health conditions, and complex barriers to employment to find a suitable pathway into a job.
    • Follows record £1 billion employment support package, announced by Work and Pensions Secretary last month, to unlock work for sick and disabled people, encourage financial independence, and boost living standards as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    West London will today become the first of 47 areas across England and Wales set to receive dedicated five-year funding aimed at helping disabled people and those with health conditions and additional support needs into work.

    As many as 100,000 people a year are set to receive tailored support nationally – including one-to-one employment advice and skills development – as rollout begins of Connect to Work, a new programme dedicated to help those facing some of the greatest barriers to work.

    Over the next five years, a partnership of Local Authorities in West London will receive a total of £42.8 million to provide targeted help to up to 3,500 people per year by:

    • matching people with job opportunities that suit their needs and circumstances,
    • providing essential skills training to help people get into and on at work,
    • working with employers to recruit and retain disabled workers.

    West London will receive almost £9 million of the £115 million already committed to run the programme in its first year – a downpayment on their full five-year deal, allowing local leaders to hit the ground running on tackling inactivity in their area.

    Work and Pensions Secretary Rt. Hon Liz Kendall MP, said:

    As part of our Plan for Change we are fixing the broken welfare system – getting more people into work, putting more money in people’s pockets, and putting the benefits bill on a sustainable footing.

    The welfare system we inherited has shut too many talented people out of the workplace – with no support, no prospects, and no opportunities.

    We are changing this. That’s why I’m delighted to see our Connect to Work programme kick off, with over £40 million of funding so local leaders in West London can give people in their area the tools they need to get in and on at work in a way that’s right for them.

    The Work and Pensions Secretary is set to visit a community hub in Shepherd’s Bush to meet people already helped into work by West London’s existing support offer, including:

    • Arman who had to step away from his job as a bookmaker due to his mental health. With support from West London Alliance Programme, he attended mental health workshops, got help to boost his CV, and found volunteering opportunities, before ultimately landing a new job.
    • Midula who has learning and speech difficulties. West London Alliance Programme is improving her prospect of getting into work through tailored interview prep and giving her the confidence boost she needs to succeed.
    • Bill who has been able to keep working at Harrow Council for 40 years, despite his physical heath deteriorating, thanks to adjustments made so he could stay in his job.

    David Francis, Director of West London Alliance, said:

    The West London Alliance Boroughs are proud to be at the forefront of the ‘Connect to Work’ initiative, demonstrating the strength of our partnerships and our dedication to improving employment outcomes for West London residents.

    This programme provides vital and tailored support to those facing challenges in the labour market, helping them to secure sustainable employment and build better lives.

    The Connect to Work Programme is one of a number of initiatives being launched to help towards the government’s aim for an 80% employment rate.

    Work has already begun on the plan to Get Britain Working, with South Yorkshire becoming the first of nine ‘inactivity trailblazers’ across the country to launch their community-led effort to help people into a job.

    This comes as the government unveiled sweeping welfare reforms – backed by a record £1 billion to deliver tailored job support for sick and disabled people – opening doors to opportunity, giving people a chance at financial independence, and boosting living standards, as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

    With 2.8 million people out of work due to ill-health – one of the highest rates in the G7 – the government is also combating health-related inactivity at its root by investing £26 billion in the NHS and delivering 2 million extra appointments to reduce medical waiting lists, giving people and the economy a chance to get back on track.

    Additional Information:

    • The West London Alliance Partnership covers Ealing, Barnet, Harrow, Hillingdon, Brent, Hammersmith and Fulham, and Hounslow Local Authorities. Their Connect to Work service will be delivered under contract by Shaw Trust.
    • The West Midlands and Greater Manchester Combined Authorities received a year’s funding for employment support as part of their Integrated Settlements – giving Mayors the power to make funding decisions in their area.
    • Guidance issued on 26 November 2024 invited areas covering all of England and Wales to develop their plans to deliver Connect to Work over the next 5 years. Last autumn’s Spending Review confirmed £115 million for year 1 (25/26), subsequent funding for the programme will be confirmed through Spending Review 2025.
    • Biggest shake up to welfare system in a generation to get Britain working – GOV.UK
    • Integrated Settlements for Mayoral Combined Authorities – GOV.UK
  • PRESS RELEASE : Over £35 million in Cold Weather Payments support paid this winter [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Over £35 million in Cold Weather Payments support paid this winter [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department for Work and Pensions on 9 April 2025.

    • Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments were made this past winter.
    • This represents around £35 million in support, in addition to other benefits.
    • Over £9 million of this was issued to those in receipt of Pension Credit.

    Over 1.4 million Cold Weather Payments – worth around £35 million in total – were paid this past winter to people in England and Wales, according to statistics released today [09 April].

    Cold Weather Payments are issued to vulnerable households when the average temperature in their local area is recorded as, or forecast to be, 0°C or below over seven consecutive days.

    Those eligible received £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather between 1 November 2024 and 31 March 2025.

    Of those who received a Cold Weather Payment, 385,000 were also in receipt of Pension Credit – equating to around £9 million.

    It comes as the government’s drive to support low-income pensioners has led to around 50,000 extra Pension Credit awards since the summer – an increase of 64% compared to the same period last year.

    Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said:

    We supported millions of households this winter through Pension Credit and Cold Weather Payments, alongside extending the Household Support Fund and the Warm Home Discount.

    For pensioners, this will have come on top of the State Pension which is set to increase by up to £1,900 over this parliament for millions, thanks to our commitment to the Triple Lock.

    Pensioners who receive Pension Credit automatically qualify for Cold Weather Payments. This is alongside extra support available such as the Household Support Fund, which was extended from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026, providing support with the cost of essentials such as food, heating and bills.

    Working age people who receive qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance can also receive a Cold Weather Payment if they meet further criteria relating to employment, health conditions and caring responsibilities for young children or a disabled child.

    Additional Information

    • A breakdown of Cold Weather Payments issued can be found on GOV.UK: Cold Weather Payment estimates: 2024 to 2025 – GOV.UK
    • There have been an estimated 1,402,000 Cold Weather Payments in the year 2024/25.
    • There have been an estimated 220,000 more Cold Weather Payments in 2024/25 compared to the 2023/24 season, including an additional 21,000 to those receiving Pension Credit.
    • Eligibility criteria for Cold Weather Payments can be found on GOV.UK: Cold Weather Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK
  • PRESS RELEASE : Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs [April 2025]

    The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 9 April 2025.

    A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.

    • The Prime Minister has today closed the deal on a new Universal theme park in Bedfordshire
    • Plans will bring an estimated £50bn boost for the economy and create around 28,000 jobs in total across creative, hospitality and construction industries
    • Set to open in 2031, the theme park will form part of a new planned entertainment resort, due to include immersive storytelling, rides, attractions and hospitality
    • Deal firmly puts the UK on the global investment stage, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change, which will create growth and opportunities across the country

    A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.

    The theme park, which is set to be one of the largest and most advanced in Europe, will bring nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 new jobs across the hospitality and creative industries when it opens in 2031.

    Supporting the government’s Plan for Change to create economic growth and opportunities by getting people into well-paid, decent jobs across the creative, technology, tourism and hospitality sectors, Universal has committed to working with local colleges and universities to train the next generation of its hospitality workforce, including through a range of apprenticeships and internships.

    As well as generating significant opportunities, the new theme park and resort will bring significant local benefits – with approximately 80% of employees at the theme park expected to come from local areas – and support a stream of ongoing work to unleash the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor through growth, infrastructure revitalisation and further job opportunities.

    Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK. This will support the government to deliver its growth mission – creating higher living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

    This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.

    It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.

    The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.

    Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a world-class theme park with several themed lands featuring Universal’s distinct brand of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment, all utilising sophisticated and advanced technology. Initial resort plans also feature a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.

    Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said:

    We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe. We appreciate the leadership and support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and their teams, as we work together to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    At a time of global change, this investment is a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business. Universal’s investment will bring billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs to the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said:

    Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe.  We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.

    As part of the Plan for Change, the government will commit to a major investment in infrastructure around the site to support the delivery of the project and ensure it is well connected and easily accessible. It comes just days after the government signed-off the expansion of Luton Airport, showcasing how the government’s pro-growth agenda is delivering real-life benefits for working people.

    The deal supports the UK’s world leading creative industries, a growth-driving sector identified in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will be published this spring. The Strategy will drive investment into high growth sectors, unlocking jobs and growth right across the country.

    Universal Destinations & Experiences has a proven track record of building and operating major theme parks and resorts across the globe. A Universal development in the UK will join the company’s existing portfolio of destinations across the United States and Asia-Pacific.

    The proposals remain subject to a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

    Additional details on the project:

    • Please contact Universal Destinations & Experiences for artist impression and drone footage of the site: uprcorpcomm@uniparks.com
    • Further details on Government plans for infrastructure investment around the site will be set out in due course.
    • The theme park resort will be built on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks. More information on the project can be found at universalukproject.co.uk.
    • The theme park and resort is subject to planning permission, which will be considered at a later date.
  • PRESS RELEASE : Cutting edge tech introduced in social care [April 2025]

    PRESS RELEASE : Cutting edge tech introduced in social care [April 2025]

    The press release issued by the Department of Health and Social Care on 9 April 2025.

    Care leaders will be trained to use the latest cutting-edge technology to improve patient care, free up staff time and help people live independently in their own homes for longer.

    In a bid to shift adult social care from analogue to digital as part of the Plan for Change, the Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting has announced a new qualification that will equip care leaders with the skills to use and rapidly deploy technology across care homes and other settings.

    The training will focus on tools which have been shown to improve the quality of care and reduce pressure on staff. This includes motion sensors that can detect and alert staff when a patient has had a fall; video telecare to allow remote appointments with doctors and carers to reduce the need to travel; and artificial intelligence which can automate routine tasks like note taking or predict when a patient might need additional care.

    Care technologies like these will help people to receive the best possible care in the community and prevent avoidable trips to the hospital, reducing pressure on the NHS.  It supports the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to make health and social care fit for the future.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    We will harness the full potential of cutting-edge technology to transform social care, helping people to live independently in their own homes and improving the quality of care.

    By investing in skills training for care workers, introducing a Fair Pay Agreement, and providing more opportunities for career progression, we will help retain the incredible professionals we need.

    Our Plan for Change will make sure we have the people and the skills needed to build a National Care Service.

    Speaking at Unison’s 2025 National Health Care Conference, the Health and Social Care Secretary also outlined a series of wider measures to boost the recruitment and retention of care staff. The plans will professionalise the adult social care workforce and help staff progress in their careers, leading to better pay and recognition.

    This includes:

    • Setting up new job roles – like deputy managers, registered managers, personal assistants and a new enhanced care worker role – in recognition of increasingly complex care requirements. It will mean their skills will be recognised across the health service, so that GPs, doctors and other health professionals understand their expertise.
    • £12 million to fund courses and qualifications for carers to develop new skills, build expertise and advance in their careers.

    The boost for social care careers will support the 1.59 million strong workforce which provides vital care and support to people of all ages and with diverse, complex needs and is in recognition of the vital work they do.

    The measures come as unpaid carers’ see the biggest rise in their earnings limit since the 1970s this month, and the first ever Fair Pay Agreement for the sector continues to progress through Parliament.

    Baroness Louise Casey will soon begin her independent commission into adult social care which will look at how we recruit, retain and support the workforce as part of its focus on building a social care system fit for the future.

    Background

    Care Workforce Pathway

    • The Care Workforce Pathway is the first universal career structure for the adult social care workforce. It focuses on direct care and support roles. The second part of the Pathway includes four further role categories to continue to match the breadth of careers in adult social care.
    • The Pathway provides clear guidance for progression and development for professionals in the adult social care sector by outlining the necessary knowledge, skills, values and behaviours they will need in their work/practice. 8 It sets out how people can develop across a long-term career in adult social care with support and training; attracting people to join and remain in the sector and supporting sustainable workforce growth.

    Level 5 Digital Leadership Qualification

    • This new qualification will ensure adult social care leaders and managers have the skills they need to adopt digital innovations and new technology to help transform the sector.
    • This supports the fundamental shift from analogue to digital in adult social care will support high quality, safe, efficient and person-centred care. This shift is dependent on the adult social care workforce feeling confident, skilled and supported to embed digital ways of working.
    • Awarding Organisations can decide which technologies to focus on and these are included, but not limited to: smart home technologies, assistive technologies, technologies worn by staff, telecare, diagnostic tools, digital social care records, business software and AI and robotics technology. Further information can be found in the Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care Qualification Specification.

    Publication of updated care certificate standards

    • The Care Certificate standards have been refreshed to bring the contents up to date and in line with the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate qualification that was launched in June 2024.
    • The Care Certificate Standards were developed for use in England and are the recommended minimum training, supervision and assessment that staff new to care (health and adult social care) should receive as part of induction and before they start to deliver care. It provides a foundation for healthcare support and social care worker roles, ensuring that the new worker can provide a compassionate and caring service.

    International Recruitment Fund

    • Additionally, the government will also reduce reliance on overseas recruitment for social care. £12.5 million has been made available for the international recruitment fund to tackle the exploitation of international care workers. This will help find new employment for displaced overseas care workers, prioritising those already in the UK before hiring internationally.

    Learning and Development Support Scheme

    • The Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS) will continue in financial year 2025 to 2026, backed by up to £12 million. This scheme supports adult social care employers to invest in their workforce through funded training opportunities. Updated information has been published on GOV.UK: Adult Social Care Learning and Development Support Scheme – GOV.UK
    • The Level 5 Digital Leadership qualification is eligible for funding under the Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS).