Tag: Press Release

PRESS RELEASE : Russia still unaccountable for its indiscriminate attacks against Ukraine: UK statement to the OSCE [October 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 October 2023.

Ambassador Neil Holland condemns recent attacks by Russia and reiterates UK support to Ukraine, including at the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference 2023.

Thank you, Mr Chair.

At yesterday’s Forum for Security Cooperation, Russia condemned the ‘indiscriminate’ attacks by others on civilian targets. Mr Chair, I would like to remind this Council that Russia is yet to answer for their indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Russia has resisted accountability.

There have been reports overnight of deaths in Zaporizhzhia following Russian missile strikes. Russia is also still to answer for the recent missile strike on the village of Hroza. On 5 October, as families gathered in the north-eastern Kharkiv region to mourn and pay respects to a fallen Ukrainian soldier, the funeral wake turned to bloodshed. What should have been a day of mourning and closure, ended with the deceased person’s entire immediate family also dead.

One in five of the people of Hroza were killed that day. This attack was unprovoked and premeditated and our thoughts are with the victims’ families and loved ones. As made clear during the Special Permanent Council, the UK is appalled by Russia’s barbaric killing of civilians, including children.

According to the UN, there have been 10,000 civilian deaths and tens of thousands of casualties since Russia mounted its full-scale invasion last year. Russia’s actions are an egregious violation of international law including the UN Charter.

The UK and our partners will continue to gather in this room and stand united in condemning these brutal attacks. The UK and the international community will continue to rally around Ukraine. We will not stop until Ukraine wins.

I would like to thank our Chair in Office for hosting the 2023 Warsaw Human Dimension Conference against attempts to block it from happening.

As Europe’s largest annual human rights Conference, this is yet another strong signal of the OSCE’s commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms in the OSCE region. Events like this exemplify the work of the OSCE.

We saw 1,500 participants from civil society, government and academia gather. As ever, we were struck by the bravery of individuals who came to Warsaw to share their stories and to fight to protect fundamental human rights. The UK wants to assure these individuals that we will not forget them, and we will do our best to protect them.

Over the course of ten days, we heard first-hand of Russia’s human rights violations against Russia’s own people and through its illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Conference highlighted Russia’s absence and isolation. It also coincided with the thirty-sixth report by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The report paints a stark picture of the price that Ukrainians are paying for Russia’s war. It details widespread torture, mock executions, and sexual violence.

Mr Chair, for as long as Russia steps on and disregards human rights, the UK and our international partners will continue to hold them to account.

Thank you.

October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak statement at press conference with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel [October 2023]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 October 2023.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s statement at joint press remarks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Prime Minister, thank you for your warm words and for welcoming me to Israel. I am just sorry to be here in such terrible circumstances.

In the last two weeks, this country has gone through something that no country, no people, should have to endure.

Least of all Israel, which has lived through some of the most awful scenes, the spectre of violence and terrorism every day of its existence.

I want to share the deep condolences of the British people, and stress that we absolutely support Israel’s right to defend itself in line with international law, to go after Hamas, to take back hostages, deter further incursions and to strengthen your security for the long-term.

Now I know that you are taking every precaution to avoid harming civilians, in direct contrast to the terrorists of Hamas, which seek to put civilians in harm’s way.

But I also want to thank you for the support that your government has given to the families of British nationals caught up in this horror, including your efforts to secure the release of hostages, and I know that we will continue to cooperate, particularly with regard to the British nationals that are involved.

Can I also say that we have seen scenes over the past day that have shocked all of us, particularly at the hospital, and we mourn the loss of every innocent life, civilians of every faith and every nationality who have been killed.

We also recognise that the Palestinian people are victims of Hamas too, and that is why I welcome your decision yesterday that you took to ensure that routes into Gaza will be opened for humanitarian aid to enter.

I am glad that you made that decision; we will support it, we are increasing our aid to the region, and we will look to get more support to people as quickly as we can.

The last thing for me to close on is this: you describe this as Israel’s darkest hour, well then it’s for me to say that I am proud to stand here with you in Israel’s darkest hour as your friend, who will stand with you in solidarity, who will stand with your people, and we also want you to win.

October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak meeting with the Prime Minister of Israel [October 2023]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 October 2023.

The Prime Minister met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel today.

He expressed the deep condolences of the British people for the terrible loss of life that has occurred in Israel. He underscored the UK’s firm belief in Israel’s right to self-defence in accordance with international humanitarian law, as they work to end the threat of Hamas and secure the freedom of hundreds of Israeli hostages.

The Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for his support for the British nationals who have been taken by Hamas and both leaders agreed to work closely together to secure their freedom.

The Prime Minister welcomed Prime Minister Netanyahu’s announcement yesterday on opening up aid access to Gaza. He emphasised the importance of establishing sustained access to get more vital food, water, medicine and fuel into Gaza and to enable British nationals trapped there to leave.

Both leaders underscored the need to prevent any regional escalation in the conflict and the importance of restoring peace and stability to the region.

October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Foreign Secretary travels to Middle East to help prevent regional spread of conflict [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 19 October 2023.

The Foreign Secretary is travelling to Egypt, Turkey and Qatar to help prevent the spread of conflict across the region.
- James Cleverly plans to meet leaders in Egypt, Turkey and Qatar over the next 3 days to help prevent the conflict spreading across the region and to seek a peaceful resolution
- he will push for agreement on humanitarian access to Gaza, the release of British hostages and foreign nationals, and securing safe passage for British nationals to leave Gaza
- visit follows £10 million increase in UK aid funding for Occupied Palestinian Territories
The Foreign Secretary today (18 October) begins a multi-country visit across the Middle East, as the UK works urgently to help prevent the conflict spreading across the region, while working towards a peaceful resolution.

James Cleverly is planning to meet senior leaders in Egypt, Turkey and Qatar over the next 3 days, where he will discuss coordination on efforts to avoid a spillover in violence which would devastate the wider region.

The trip has been planned to countries which are vital to international efforts to uphold regional stability, free hostages and allow humanitarian access to Gaza, with all 3 vital interlocutors in the Middle East. The Foreign Secretary will discuss the urgent need for the Rafah crossing to open so that lifesaving aid can reach those who need it and for Hamas to release the hostages.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

It is in no one’s interests – neither Israeli, Palestinian nor the wider Middle East – for others to be drawn into this conflict.

I am meeting counterparts from influential states in the region to push for calm and stability, facilitate humanitarian access into Gaza and work together to secure the release of hostages.

Since the Hamas attacks on 7 October, the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary have spoken to counterparts from almost 20 countries as part of extensive diplomatic efforts to sustain the prospect of peace and stability in the Middle East.

Earlier this week, a £10 million aid package was announced by the Prime Minister in response to the escalating conflict in Gaza – with funding now being made available to agencies helping vulnerable civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

This is an increase of more than a third on existing UK support to the OPTs. Half the new funding will support an appeal by the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine (UNRWA), which is responding to critical food, water, health, shelter and protection needs in Gaza.

The UK remains committed to mitigating the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calling for international humanitarian law to be respected, while standing alongside the people of Israel against the terrorist group Hamas.

Last week the Foreign Secretary was the first foreign minister to visit the site of Hamas’s attacks on Israel.
October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Three Trustees reappointed to the Theatres Trust [October 2023]

The press release issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on 19 October 2023.

The Secretary of State has reappointed Annie Hampson, Jane Spiers and Katie Town as Trustees of the Theatres Trust for three year terms commencing 14 September 2023.

Annie Hampson OBE

Reappointed from 14 September 2023 until 13 September 2026.

Annie Hampson has 45 years senior planning experience and received an OBE for services to Planning in London in 2018. She retired as Chief Planning Officer and Development Director at the City of London in 2020 having previously been Planning Services and Development Director since 1989. Prior to that she occupied senior posts elsewhere in London.

Annie has served as a Trustee for the Theatres Trust since 2020 with particular expertise in Planning. She is currently Chairman of the Diocesan Advisory Committee for London which covers over 600 Churches and is Chairman of Wren 300- A Diocese of London Project to promote Sir Christopher Wren’s work and the social/educational opportunities his works provide. She is also a Judge for the International Property Awards.

Annie has extensive knowledge of major projects, the development process, historic buildings, works of alteration, as well as operating and managing in Local Government.

Jane Spiers

Reappointed from 14 September 2023 until 13 September 2026.

Jane Spiers is Chair of National Theatre of Scotland. She was Chief Executive of Aberdeen Performing Arts, (His Majesty’s Theatre, Music Hall and Lemon Tree) from 2012 – 2023 and inaugural Chief Executive of Horsecross Arts (Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre) from 2003 – 2012, leading the team through the construction and launch of Perth Concert Hall and championing Perth Theatre redevelopment.

Prior to this she was client lead for the redevelopment of the Stirling Tolbooth, centre for music and the arts. Jane is an honorary fellow of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, she is an RSA Fellow and she has a honorary D.Litt from Robert Gordon University. She is a Non-Executive Director of Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust, Sage Gateshead and Peacock Printmakers.

Katie Town

Reappointed from 14 September 2023 until 13 September 2026.

Katie Town is Executive Director of Theatre Royal Wakefield, a Grade II* listed Frank Matcham theatre in West Yorkshire. She has led the theatre since the end of 2015, taking the organisation through a process of rapid creative and organisational change, including building and opening a new extension and safely navigating the organisation through the Coronavirus pandemic keeping learning and community participation projects going throughout.

Katie previously worked as General Manager for the National Theatre’s Learning Department. Originally qualifying as a non-practising barrister, Katie decided a career in the arts seemed much more interesting, initially working in the Business Affairs team at the Royal Opera House and then in a number smaller arts organisations, including Candoco Dance Company.

Remuneration and Governance Code

Trustees of the Theatres Trust are not remunerated. This appointment has been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. Annie Hampson, Jane Spiers and Katie Town have not declared any significant political activity.

October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : New veterans ID cards rolled out to service leavers [October 2023]

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 19 October 2023.

A new ID card for armed forces veterans, which will help them access specialist support and services, has started to be issued to service leavers.

From today, any personnel who have left the military since December 2018 will automatically be given one of the new ID cards, which will allow them to maintain a tangible link to their career in the forces.

The cards allow veterans to easily verify their service to the NHS, their local authority, and charities, helping them to access support and services where needed.

All other veterans will be able to apply for a new ID card by the end of this year, to mark their time in the armed forces.

Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said:

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the ex-forces community, and we are working hard to ensure they receive the support they deserve.

These new cards celebrate the great commitment and dedication of those who have served this country, and I hope they can provide a further link to ex-personnel and the incredible community around them.

Veterans UK – which manages pensions and compensation payments for the armed forces – local authorities, service charities, NHS and GPs will also benefit from the change, as they will not have to conduct time-consuming checks to identify individual veterans.

The new ID card is one of three that are available to service leavers. Personnel leaving the armed forces are also able to keep their military IDs, known as the MOD Form 90, allowing them to maintain their emotional connection with their service. Additionally, veterans can access a range of discounts through the Defence Discount Service, the official MOD-endorsed service for the armed forces.

Last year saw the launch of the Strategy for our Veterans, published jointly by the UK, Welsh and Scottish Governments, which sets out the key areas of support for those who have left the armed forces. The consultation closed on Thursday 21 February.

All relevant government departments have a responsibility to ensure that the military community is treated fairly, and not disadvantaged by their service, as part of the Armed Forces Covenant. The new ID cards will ensure the process of validating service is as straightforward as possible, so that ex-forces personnel can access support for issues related to their service quickly, where needed.

The cards will complement the NHS’ commitment to providing specialist health support for veterans in every part of the health service, enabling ex-service personnel in England, Scotland and Wales to access treatment where they have been affected by their service. Last year, NHS England announced that dedicated mental healthcare services are up and running in every part of the country, backed by £10 million of investment, with increasing numbers of GPs and hospitals becoming ‘Veteran Aware’, in order to fully address the needs of those who have served.

Any veteran in need of support can contact the Veterans’ Gateway – the 24 hour service which signposts ex-forces personnel to the wide range of support available to them, including housing and financial advice, career guidance, and medical care from the NHS. Since being set up in 2017, the Veterans’ Gateway has already received over 20,000 contacts, advising ex-forces personnel and their families.

October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Barrier to employment lifted for thousands of ex-offenders [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Ministry of Justice on 30 October 2023.

Over 120,000 former offenders will find it easier to get work and turn their lives away from crime following a change in the law.
- law change will help ex-offenders turn their back on crime and reduce reoffending
- certain custodial sentences will no longer need to be declared removing a significant barrier to offenders rebuilding their lives
- most serious offenders exempt from changes to keep the public safe
These changes significantly reduce the time people with criminal convictions are legally required to declare them to most potential employers after serving their sentence and when applying for courses, insurance and housing.

Under the previous rules, some offenders needed to disclose their sentences for the rest of their lives, even for crimes committed decades earlier, a significant barrier to them getting a job and rebuilding their lives.

Now, custodial sentences of four years or more years for less serious crimes become ‘spent’ after a seven-year period of rehabilitation, as long as no further offence is committed.

Offenders who have committed serious sexual, violent, or terrorist offences are excluded from these changes to ensure this does not result in an increased risk to the public.

Stricter disclosure rules will continue to apply to jobs that involve working with vulnerable people, through standard and enhanced DBS checks.

The Ministry of Justice has also brought in changes that will mean offenders serving shorter sentences for less serious crimes will need to declare their criminal record for shorter periods, helping turn their lives away from crime.

Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary, Alex Chalk KC, said:

Carrying the weight of life-long criminal records even after serving their time is a huge barrier for many offenders seeking to reintegrate into society and turn away from a life of crime.

These reforms will help ex-offenders get the steady income, routine and purpose they need which cuts reoffending and ensures fewer members of the public become victims of crime.

The reforms came into force on Saturday (28 October 2023) under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022. They will immediately impact thousands of people with previously unspent convictions, and many more each year. Nearly 125,000 people sentenced in 2022 alone will benefit from these changes.

Increasing the number of ex-offenders into jobs has formed a key part of the government’s work to reduce reoffending, which costs the taxpayer up to £18 billion each year. Research shows that former offenders in steady employment are nine percentage points less likely to commit further crimes.

Rapid progress has been made to boost employment for prison leavers, with the number of ex-offenders who have been successfully steered into jobs within 6 months more than doubling from 14% to 30% since April 2021.

The government has also recently announced reforms to give the lowest risk, and first-time offenders, the greatest chance to turn their lives around. By legislating that there should be a presumption against prison sentences of less than 12 months, these offenders will be punished in the community, repaying their debt to society by cleaning up our neighbourhoods and scrubbing graffiti off walls. This will help these offenders stay in work, connected to their families and better access the drug rehab and mental healthcare needed to properly addresses the root causes of their offending.

Naomi, who has previous convictions but has since been supported into steady employment with charity Recycling Lives, knows from experience how a criminal record can hinder opportunities to move away from a life of crime. She said:

This legislation is a massive step forward in improving rehabilitation opportunities and relationships between ex-offenders and employers.

It’s about eradicating stereotypical views and allowing ex-offenders to blossom in the life they have worked hard to create.

Unlock, a charity that supports ex-offenders to overcome the long-term disadvantages caused by their convictions, has also welcomed the law change. Dr Jo Easton, Joint Interim CEO, said:

We see first-hand through our helpline and advice service that having to disclose a criminal record introduces multiple barriers in everyday life; especially finding a job, somewhere to live, insurance or even accessing higher education.

While we are calling for even more fundamental reform to the criminal record system, these changes will make a huge difference for thousands of people, giving them the chance to move on with their lives much sooner.

Employment Advisory Boards have been established at 92 prisons over the last two years, linking business leaders with their local prisons to offer their expertise on the skills, qualifications and training needed to help prisoners re-enter the workforce.

Dedicated job experts have been recruited in every resettlement prison in England and Wales and the Prison Service has been hosting “Unlocked” job fairs which help match prison leavers with potential employers in sectors ranging from hospitality to construction.
October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Rishi Sunak meeting with the President of Israel Isaac Herzog [October 2023]

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 19 October 2023.

The Prime Minister met Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Israel today.

He expressed his personal condolences for the horrific loss of life in Israel as a result of Hamas’ terrorism. He reiterated that the UK stands in solidarity with Israel and firmly believes in the country’s right to self-defence in line with international law.

The Prime Minister and President Herzog agreed on the importance of getting urgent humanitarian support to ordinary Palestinians in Gaza who are also suffering. The Prime Minister welcomed yesterday’s announcement that Israel would not stop aid from entering Gaza. He expressed his sincere hope that further progress could be made on delivering crucial food, water and medicine.

The Prime Minister conveyed his gratitude to President Herzog for the support Israel has provided to British nationals caught up in the attacks, including to the families of those who have been taken hostage. The leaders agreed to continue working tirelessly to secure their release.

The Prime Minister and President Herzog stressed the imperative need to avoid further escalation of violence in the region. They agreed to continue working together to that end.

October 30, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Air travel guidance refreshed to give passengers more clarity on their rights [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 19 October 2023.

Updated guidance explains what passengers need to know about their rights and responsibilities when flying.
- government refreshes air passenger travel guide to help passengers navigate their protections and rights when flying
- formerly known as the aviation passenger charter, the travel guide has been given a makeover, making it easier for passengers to find the information they need
- ahead of the busy half term, it’s vital that passengers know their rights and industry use their platforms to promote them – ensuring operators and passengers know exactly what’s expected of them
As millions of people are expected to travel through UK airports over the upcoming half term, the Department for Transport (DfT) has today (19 October 2023) refreshed the newly named Air passenger travel guide, making it even easier for passengers to know their rights and responsibilities when they travel.

Formerly known as the aviation passenger charter, it details what people can expect from airlines, travel agents, tour operators and airports, and what to do if things don’t go to plan.

This includes advice on what to do if flights are cancelled or delayed, if baggage goes missing, and the rights of disabled passengers, as well as guidance on how to complain if passengers feel they have been treated unfairly.

Not only does it help passengers in these stressful situations, the travel guide also provides general advice for all aspects of your journey, such as what to expect at passport control, what you can bring through UK customs and how to manage connecting flights.

It also reminds passengers to regularly check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FDCO) website for the latest security and safety advice before booking travel, as well as what counts as an extraordinary circumstance when compensation isn’t available.

The advice also makes clear that while security checks are changing over the coming months, they should continue to be prepared to remove electronics and small liquids from their bags when travelling by air.

Aviation Minister Baroness Vere said:

Whether going on holiday, travelling for business or visiting loved ones, we all want our journeys to be smooth and without any hiccups, which is why the air passenger travel guide is so important.

Having a one-stop shop of information and advice, which is clear and concise, will help improve the overall travel experience and make sure passengers are getting what they deserve.

As part of a regular review to ensure it remains as useful as possible for passengers, the travel guide will also soon contain British Sign Language and easy-read versions and accessibility information is now in one collated and convenient section, making it easier for disabled passengers to find out how to book assistance at the airport and on the plane.

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association, said:

There are lots of rights in place to protect people who are heading off on holiday, particularly if they are caught up in delays or cancellations. But your rights do vary depending on what you booked – with those on a package holiday enjoying greater protection.

The air passenger travel guide gives a good outline of what travellers can expect and ABTA is also on hand to guide our members’ customers and offer additional cover through the ABTA code of conduct.

DfT has recently committed to strengthen the powers of the Civil Aviation Authority and mandate alternative dispute resolutions that make it easier for consumers to escalate complaints.

To encourage airlines and operators to promote the travel guide, Aviation Minister Baroness Vere has written to 30 partners in the aviation industry to encourage the use of the guide on individual booking websites – so from the moment they book, passengers have the information they need for their whole journey – without the need to go searching.
October 24, 2023
PRESS RELEASE : Tech start-ups boosted by access to skills and science from Exeter to Edinburgh [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology on 19 October 2023.

Seven organisations to receive funding for programmes supporting tech and digital businesses.
- Start-ups across Britain given access to research, business coaching and help to secure funding after organisations receive a boost of up to £250,000
- among them is new support for Sheffield health and wellbeing innovators and Welsh creative tech
- partnerships with seven organisations including universities across the UK unveiled as part of Barclays Eagle Labs’ Ecosystem Partnership Programme
Start-ups across the UK will receive access to the latest scientific research, business coaching and help to raise capital from universities and business experts. Announced today (Thursday 19 October), seven organisations are to receive funding to run programmes to support tech and digital businesses.

Local programmes in cities including Edinburgh, Exeter and Sheffield will be match-funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s Digital Growth Grant, delivered by Barclays Eagle Labs. Each organisation has received up to £250,000 to match their investments in new and existing programmes that help local tech businesses.

Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy, Paul Scully said:

Britain’s innovative tech start-ups span the nation and drive global innovation forward. We are delighted to boost these programmes to provide on-the-ground support for founders in their local areas, giving them the help they need to thrive.

Directly supporting businesses in this way is the cornerstone of our Digital Growth Grant, which champions a future where every corner of the UK benefits from the job creation and growth technology provides.

The programmes provide a variety of support including access to digital services, entrepreneurship training, and access to networking and fundraising opportunities.

Each programme has a specialist focus dependent on local specialisms, with Edinburgh backing “deep tech” start-ups which are converting scientific discoveries into businesses. Other regions are focussing support on tech start-ups helping tackle climate change, those supporting creative industries, or driving innovation in the NHS.

Some of the successful programmes

Greentech Accelerator, Wales: Tramshed Tech will run this 12-week programme to help climate tech businesses by providing training, expert advice, network support, with access to funding.

Advanced Wellbeing Accelerator, Sheffield: With Digital Growth Grant funding, Sheffield Hallam University is able to run its third year of a start-up support scheme for high-potential health and wellbeing tech businesses, building on the regions fast-evolving digital health tech cluster.

Venture Builder Incubator, Edinburgh: The expansion of this University of Edinburgh programme will give researchers access to a cut of £100,000, access to AI research facilities and a ‘National Robotarium’ to convert their inventions into innovations and businesses across robotics and more.

Season 2 of the Ecosystem Partnership Programme opens for applications from October 19th, where organisations can apply for matched funding for activity being delivered between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025.

Today also marks six months since Barclays Eagle Labs started leading the delivery of the Digital Growth Grant. In this time, Barclays Eagle Labs has initiated nine accelerator programmes, including the Black Venture Growth Programme for underrepresented founders, helping to foster and grow the digital economy.

Matt Corbidge, Director, Barclays Eagle Labs said:

We are proud to be able to support these projects which are designed to help early-stage tech entrepreneurs across the UK. It’s vitally important that start-ups and scale-ups are supported particularly in growing sectors in AI, climate-tech and the digital space.

Using our Ecosystem Partnership Programme, we’re allocating funding to organisations that are already plugged into their national and regional ecosystems. We hope these projects will go a long way to supporting start-ups and scale-ups, which are vital to growing local economies throughout the UK.

Notes to editors

The full list of partners includes:
- Conception X
- Functional Skills UK
- Sunderland Software City
- SETsquared Partnership
- Sheffield Hallam University
- Tramshed Tech
- University of Edinburgh
The £12 million Digital Growth Grant builds on more than £42.2 million invested by the government to support tech startups and scaleups since 2016. The two-year grant, awarded to Barclays Eagle Labs, was launched in April 2023.

Among a range of support initiatives, including growth programmes, mentoring sessions and learning materials, the grant funds the Ecosystem Partnership Programme, which allocates funding to business support organisations that are embedded in their local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The first round of funding under the Ecosystem Partnership Programme opened for applications in April 2023, for activity to be delivered by 31 March 2024. For more information on the Ecosystem Partnership Programme please visit the Barclays Eagle Lab website.
October 24, 2023