Default overnight curfews and addictive features to be switched off automatically to protect 16 and 17-year-olds on social media
Nighttime curfews to be set by default and features that get teens hooked onto social media to be automatically switched off for 16- and 17-year-olds
Measures look to protect the next generation, ensuring that when kids turn 16, they don’t face a cliff edge of being exposed to the most addictive features online
Tech Secretary also looks at measures to strengthen protections for kids on AI services, including mandatory breaks for U-18s and restrictions on chatbots that offer mental health advice
Default overnight curfews from midnight to 6am will be switched on for 16 and 17-year-olds on social media apps, as the government takes further action to back parents and protect the next generation online.
Features that can keep users scrolling for longer – such as videos that automatically play one after another and feeds that continually serve up personalised content – will also be switched off by default for older teenagers.
Following the government’s once-in-a-generation ban on social media services for under-16s from Spring next year, these measures will help ensure there is no cliff edge in protections as young people move into their later teenage years.
The new protections strike a balance between giving older teenagers greater safeguards online while still allowing them to change their own settings if they wish.
Today’s measures follow a first-of-its-kind Government pilot involving more than 300 teenagers and parents across the UK, with families reporting that overnight curfews quickly became part of their routine and helped improve sleep and concentration.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: “Our consultation provided a clear message from parents and teenagers alike – even as young people gain greater independence at 16, they should still be protected from the most addictive online features that can have a harmful impact on their wellbeing.
“These measures will be crucial in helping young people get the sleep they need, focus on school and college, and spend more quality time with family and friends, all of which are fundamental to building a happy, healthy and fulfilling adult life.
“We want young people to enjoy the benefits of technology while having the tools to make the online world a place where they can thrive.”
Alongside the new protections for social media, the Technology Secretary intends to bring forward a package of measures to help children use AI chatbots safely. These will include:
Regular breaks for under-18s using chatbots, encouraging healthier online habits.
Working with regulators and across government to address services that provide dangerous, misleading or unverified mental health advice. Ministers will consider all options, including banning chatbots that pose a serious threat to children.
Alongside these protections, the Government will publish new guidance for children, parents and guardians on how to use AI safely and confidently by expanding the Kids Online Safety Hub.
Media literacy skills will also be bolstered in schools, through new RSHE (Relationships, Sex, and Health Education) classes and an updated National Curriculum, which will teach children to navigate new types of technology including artificial intelligence and AI chatbots, identify mis- and disinformation as well as violent and misogynistic content.
The first set of regulations on the social media restrictions will be laid before Parliament by the end of this year, with measures expected to come into force in spring 2027, alongside robust implementation and enforcement.
Find thousands of restaurants, cinemas, theatres and other attractions near you offering customer discounts following the Chancellor’s summer tax cuts.
Nando’s, Bill’s, Las Iguanas, ODEON, and the Edinburgh Dungeon are among the eateries and attractions that could be showing discounts in your local area if you enter your postcode.
This is part of action from the Government to help families enjoy the little treats and days out that make the summer holidays special.
In just a few clicks, every family in the UK can now find cheaper days out and children’s meals in restaurants closer to home via the Great British Summer Savings website which has now gone live.
To help all families enjoy a day out for less this summer during a cost-of-living squeeze, the Chancellor cut VAT from 20% to 5% on eligible activities including family tickets to the cinema, admission tickets for both children and adults to amusement parks, and children’s meals in restaurants from 25 June to 1 September.
Nando’s, Bill’s, Las Iguanas, ODEON, and The London Eye are among the eateries and attractions that have joined the Government’s scheme to pass on these savings to customers, and feature on the new website so people can easily find them.
Families who live in Edinburgh can enter their postcode and will see discounts being offered at the Edinburgh Dungeon and The Cameo.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: “Thanks to our tax cuts, families will be able to enjoy more of the little treats and days out that make the British summer holidays so special.
“Our new website will make it easier for them to take advantage of Great British Summer Savings and help afford the moments that matter.
“That’s alongside the wider action we’re taking to cut household energy bills and boost working people’s wages by hundreds of pounds.”
All families need to do is follow these easy steps online:
Adjust the dial to select how far you want to travel from home
Optionally search by type of attraction or food offers you are looking for
Click the ‘Find offers’ button
See a list of businesses in your areas offering discounts and their location on the map
When you see a restaurant or attraction that’s best for your family, all you need to do is book a table or buy a ticket as you usually would and your discount is automatically taken off your price
In total, over 1,700 businesses’ offers can be found on the website and the Government is engaging daily with businesses not yet supporting the Great British Summer Savings scheme to encourage them to join.
All the following activities are eligible to be part of the scheme:
Children’s menu meals served in restaurants for consumption on the premises
Children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows and exhibitions
Admission tickets, for both children and adults, to a range of attractions, including amusement parks, fairs, museums, zoos, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks and observation attractions.
The UK Government is also taking the long-term decisions for a stronger and more secure economy in the future.
Action to take £117 off household energy bills and increases to the national minimum and living wage comes alongside investing billions of pounds to unlock our homegrown, clean energy supplies. That will increase our national resilience to shocks and reduce bills in the years to come.
Businesses, charities and innovators are being invited to compete for a share of up to £60 million to transform how disabled people and those with health conditions are supported into work, the Government has announced today [14th July].
Businesses, charities and organisations to bid for up to £60 million to fund innovative ideas to support disabled people move closer and into work.
Expert panel – including Paralympian Tanni Grey Thompson – to help design the fund and shortlist best ideas
Comes as part of £3.5 billion employment support package to knock down barriers to opportunity for disabled people and those with health conditions.
The Government’s Pathways to Work Innovation Fund is a ‘call to action’ for the private, voluntary and public sectors to come forward with the most ambitious, creative ideas to help disabled people and those with health conditions get into and on at work.
The Fund will open for bids in September, with organisations across the UK invited to compete for funding to test genuinely new approaches to employment support.
With 2.8 million people currently out of work due to ill-health, and the Keep Britain Working review estimating economic inactivity caused by health conditions costs the UK economy £212 billion a year, the Government is looking to work alongside business, charities, tech innovators and disabled people themselves to tackle the issue and improve employment support.
The Fund forms part of the Government’s commitment to break down barriers to opportunity for disabled people backed by £3.5 billion in tailored employment support. This includes intensive, one-to-one job help from specialist advisers in their own communities, meeting people where they are, alongside a joined-up work and health offer.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “We inherited a welfare system which has locked too many disabled people and those with health conditions out of work.
“We’re determined to ensure no talent is left behind, and that people are given the support they need. Through our £3.5 billion Pathways to Work employment support offer, we’ve seen that personalised support can be life-changing.
“Now we’re calling on business, disabled people and charities to work with us, and bring forward their ideas to transform employment support.”
An expert panel – including Paralympian Tanni, Baroness Grey-Thompson – will help shape the fund’s design and advise on which bids should be funded, ensuring the voices and experience of disabled people are placed at the very heart of the process.
It comes as the Department is embracing innovation by using technologies including AI and machine learning to deliver more efficient services, modernise systems and support more people into work, including a new tool to help people into jobs.
Paralympian and Member of House of Lords, Tanni, Baroness Grey-Thompson, said: “I am delighted to be joining this expert panel at such an important moment. Finding and sustaining work matters enormously – not just for individual wellbeing and independence, but for society as a whole.
“We know that with the right support, disabled people can and do thrive in the workplace.
“The world is changing rapidly, and the systems that support disabled people must keep pace with that change. This Fund is a real opportunity to back the bold, creative ideas that can make that happen.”
To mark the launch, the Work and Pensions Secretary will today visit TechUK, the UK’s leading technology trade association, where he will meet with their members at a tech and innovation showcase to see cutting-edge innovation in action and discuss how technology can help transform people’s working lives.
The new approach comes alongside wider Government action to help people into work and fulfil their full potential, as part of reforms to the broken welfare system this government inherited, including:
Rebalancing Universal Credit to remove the perverse incentives that push people away from work.
Introducing a Right to Try Work Guarantee, giving everyone who can work the chance to do so without fear of losing their benefits.
Investing £3.5 billion in tailored employment support for sick or disabled people.
Increasing face-to-face assessments for health benefits.
Tackling fraud and error in the benefits system, saving £14.6 billion over this Parliament
Alan Milburn is due to bring his final recommendations later this year on tackling the barriers young people face, and the Timms review is looking at how to make sure PIP is fit and fair for the future.
Antony Walker, Deputy CEO of TechUK, said: “The announcement that the Department for Work and Pensions is investing into an Innovation Fund is very welcome. Thousands of disabled people and those with health conditions are locked out of the workforce, not for lack of talent, but because of barriers that persist across many careers.
“Our members are already developing and deploying innovative technologies that are breaking down those barriers, helping people to find work, stay in work and thrive in their careers.
“This investment has the potential to build on that success, accelerating the adoption of proven solutions and supporting even more disabled people to access rewarding employment while helping employers tap into a wider pool of talent.”
The Pathways to Work Innovation Fund will open for bids in September 2026. Full details on how to apply will be published in due course.
British Veterinary Association hails ‘pivotal moment’ for profession as Government confirms plans for reformed veterinary legislation
Proposals for a new independent veterinary ombudsman to give pet owners stronger rights
Greater transparency on prices, business ownership and standards to help pet owners choose right care and save money.
Introduction of comparison website to drive down vet fees and cap on prescriptions.
Millions of pet owners will benefit from the most significant overhaul of veterinary regulation in six decades, as the government today (Thursday 9 July 2026) publishes its White Paper setting out its vision for a thriving and fairer veterinary sector.
New measures will radically modernise the industry, delivering better protections for households and greater transparency around prices – helping pet owners understand what they are paying for, avoid unexpected costs and choose the best value care for their pets.
Vet practices will be required to publish price lists for common treatments and be transparent about options and changes, allowing pet owners to choose the best treatment for their animals. This will be supported by an enhanced ‘Find a Vet’ service and a £21 cap on written prescription fees. Knowing key prices beforehand helps owners to choose the best value.
A new independent veterinary ombudsman is also being considered to give pet owners a clear and straightforward route to redress when complaints cannot be resolved directly with their practice. With the power to make binding decisions, the ombudsman will ensure disputes are resolved more quickly and fairly, increasing confidence across the sector.
The White Paper includes new proposals for veterinary businesses to be subject to statutory regulation, including a mandatory licencing system, inspections and published compliance reports to improve accountability and choice. Greater transparency around prices and practice ownership will be mandated for the first time, so pet owners can make genuinely informed decisions about their care.
Secretary of State for Defra, Emma Reynolds said:“Pets are part of the family, but for too many households the cost of caring for them has become a real worry. These reforms will help owners avoid unexpected bills, compare prices more easily and get the best value care for their pets.
“We’re modernising a system that hasn’t been updated for sixty years, putting pet owners first while giving vets the modern framework they need to support the future of the profession.”
The White Paper responds to the findings of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) which highlighted concerns around transparency and competition in the veterinary sector. Recommendations from the CMA will address competition concerns, ahead of the new legislation coming into force.
These changes are vital with the profession today radically different to the 1960s when the Veterinary Surgeons Act was introduced. The industry was then largely made up of agricultural vet practices and small family run businesses. The sector is now dominated by small animal care and a handful of large corporates meaning the legislation has not kept pace with the modern world.
The reforms will support veterinary professionals and businesses, ensuring the regulatory framework keeps pace with a modern, growing sector.
UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss, said: “The veterinary profession has changed enormously over the past 60 years, but the legislation underpinning it has not kept pace.
“This new framework will build a stronger, more resilient veterinary profession fit to meet the needs of the UK’s animal sector whilst ensuring the highest standards of care for our animals.”
Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, said:“We back the government’s proposals, which include our recommendations on regulating the sector.
“For the first time, these proposals would ensure that vet businesses are accountable to an independent regulator, while offering consumers more protection and a fairer deal.”
Veterinary professionals are essential to the UK’s high animal health and welfare standards. These reforms strengthen professional recognition especially for veterinary nurses, modernise outdated regulation and help safeguard the profession’s ability to continue to protect the UK from the threats from disease and food insecurity.
The White Paper is being introduced following extensive public consultation. The consultation received thousands of responses from the public and veterinary sector which were carefully considered to shape the new White Paper.
This announcement follows the publication of the Animal Welfare Strategy and is part of this Government’s ambitious reforms to animal welfare – improving the lives of millions of animals across the UK.
British Veterinary Association hails pivotal moment for profession as Government confirms plans for reformed veterinary legislation
In a major milestone for the British Veterinary Association’s (BVA) long-standing campaign to reform the outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act (VSA) 1966, the UK Government has today (9 July 2026) published a White Paper, ‘Our vision for a thriving veterinary sector’, that sets out changes to how veterinary services are regulated and introduces greater accountability that will support animal owners.
BVA is strongly backing the proposals, which for the first time will regulate veterinary businesses and other veterinary professionals like farriers and equine dental technicians alongside vets and vet nurses, as well as protect the Registered Vet Nurse title.
Today’s White Paper outlines a clear division of the regulatory and professional leadership functions – something BVA had pressed for – with transparency of funding and independent external oversight of the regulator alongside a strong and well-funded professional leadership function.
Responding to Defra’s plans for changes to veterinary legislation, British Veterinary Association President Dr. Rob Williams MRCVS said:“Current veterinary legislation is shockingly outdated and frankly is no longer fit for purpose.
“The publication of today’s White Paper is a positive, landmark moment for vet professionals, as well as for animals and their owners, taking us all one step closer to improved legislation that meets the demands of modern veterinary medicine.
“BVA will continue engaging on behalf of our members with government and parliamentarians, ensuring that the profession’s voice is heard so that the new legislation delivers for the profession, animal welfare, and the public.
“If we want to see a Bill introduced to Parliament next year, continued support from cross-party MPs as well as the veterinary profession will be essential.”
The Government’s proposals for a new VSA include:
Regulation of veterinary and animal healthcare businesses as well as allied veterinary professionals such as equine dental technicians and farriers
Protection of the ‘Registered Vet Nurse’ title
An updated Fitness to Practise process to protect the public and animal health and welfare
Modernising registration by moving to a Licence to Practise system for the whole veterinary team
Updating the role and responsibilities of the regulator to ensure there is no real or perceived conflict of interest between regulatory and professional leadership activities, with oversight of the regulator by an independent, external body.
For more on BVA’s campaign to reform the Veterinary Surgeons Act, see:
Families across the UK are benefiting from reduced VAT on ticket prices as part of the Great British Summer Savings.
Cinemas, soft plays and theme parks are among the attractions where the savings will be passed on.
Businesses will also benefit from increased footfall during the summer holidays.
Attractions across Edinburgh and the east of Scotland are embracing the UK Government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme – making family days out more affordable.
The initiative, which cut VAT from 20% to 5% on children’s tickets on a variety of attractions and days out, and on children’s menu meals in restaurants, is now in operation and will run until 1 September.
UK Government Minister for Scotland Kirsty McNeill said:“Now schools are out for the summer across the east of Scotland, we want families to make the most of their time together.
“That’s why this summer, the UK Government is cutting the cost of a family day out with the Great British Summer Savings VAT reduction – helping families across the UK make the most of the summer break.
“Businesses will also feel the benefits with increased visitor numbers and more people discovering the wonderful range of activities and attractions we have throughout Scotland and the whole of the UK.
“Too many parents feel they have to hold back on treats or days out together because of cost of living pressures so the UK Government is slashing the VAT on a range of kids’ activities so families can afford more time together.”
One Edinburgh attraction supporting the savings for families is Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, which has already refunded the price difference to 1200 pre-paid tickets.
Tony Millar, Camera Obscura and World of Illusion’s manager, said: “We’re delighted to be part of the Great British Summer Savings initiative and to pass the benefit directly on to visitors. The summer holidays are an important time for families to make memories together, but we know the cost of days out can add up.
“By passing on the VAT reduction and reducing our ticket prices over the summer, we hope to make it easier for families, tourists and local visitors to enjoy a fun, memorable and great-value day out in the heart of Edinburgh.”
The VAT rate on eligible activities will be cut from 20% to 5% and applies across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The reduced rate will apply to:
Children’s menu meals served in restaurants for consumption on the premises;
Children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows and exhibitions;
Admission tickets, for both children and adults, to a range of attractions, including: amusement parks, fairs, museums, zoos, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks and observation attractions.
This money-saving package supports families, while also supporting businesses through increased footfall. The government expects businesses to pass on VAT savings to customers.
Guidance for businesses in scope of the policy has been published by HMRC which outlines how businesses can operate the scheme.
For more information, see HM Treasury’s press release.
Nationwide, HSBC UK, Sheffield Mutual and Yorkshire Building Society among members of new taskforce meeting for first time as government takes action to reunite young people with unclaimed Child Trust Funds
The Taskforce will improve coordination across government and industry to encourage more young people to access their unclaimed matured funds
More than 750,000 young people have unclaimed accounts worth £2,200 on average
Hundreds of thousands of young people could soon be reunited with unclaimed savings worth more than £1.6 billion, as the Government launches a new push to trace matured Child Trust Funds (CTFs).
Around 6.3 million Child Trust Fund accounts were opened for children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011, predominantly by parents and guardians, with the remainder established by HMRC. Accounts can go unclaimed for a number of reasons difficulty locating them, people forget they have them, or a decision to leave the funds invested for the time being.
Child Trust Funds were introduced to give every child a financial asset at adulthood, and this Government is doing everything it can to make sure young adults are aware of and can access their accounts.
To make this happen, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Rachel Blake MP, has convened a new Child Trust Fund Taskforce, bringing together CTF providers and the Government to drive a coordinated effort to increase reunification of accounts.
Members of the Taskforce will include One Family, Coutts, Nationwide, HSBC UK, Pilling, The Coventry (Co-operative), Sheffield Mutual, Unity Mutual, Forester, Healthy Investments and Yorkshire Building Society – with the first meeting happening today.
More than 750,000 young adults still have unclaimed matured accounts, holding £2,200 on average. The funds were originally set up by the government for those born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011. The Taskforce will improve coordination across government and industry to encourage more young people to access their unclaimed matured CTFs.
Rachel Blake, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, said:“Too many young people are missing out simply because they are not aware of where their Child Trust Fund is or how to access it.
“We are acting to fix that by bringing government and industry together – improving coordination and making it easier for people to find and claim what’s rightfully theirs.”
JP Marks, HMRC’s Chief Executive and First Permanent Secretary, said:“Many young people have Child Trust Fund accounts with an average £2,200 waiting to be claimed. This is their money, and we want to do all we can to help them find and access it.
“If you think you have one, you can use the ‘Find my Child Trust Fund’ tool on GOV.UK to find out where your account is held.”
The Taskforce will bring providers together to improve tracing approaches, test more effective engagement with young people, and drive practical actions that lead to more accounts being claimed.
Today’s move builds on existing action to tackle unclaimed matured accounts, including ongoing HMRC communications campaigns and direct letters going out to eligible 21-year-olds.
Anyone born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011 can search for their account on GOV.UK. The search is free, requires only a National Insurance number, and takes minutes. Those aged 18 or over can access funds immediately.
Jim Islam, Chief Executive Officer, OneFamily, said: “We welcome the creation of the Child Trust Fund Taskforce to help more young people access their savings. We know from our own experience that making this process as easy as possible is essential and we look forward to working together with government and industry partners.
“Child Trust Funds have already provided a valuable financial boost to millions of individuals who have claimed their accounts as they enter adulthood, making a real difference to people’s lives.
“We’re committed to playing our part in helping people who have not yet claimed. Anyone born after 1 September 2002 who has already turned 18 will have a Child Trust Fund, and can search for their account on the government website.”
Philip Kurtenbach, Head of Product Management & Governance, Wealth & PB, HSBC UK said:“At HSBC UK, we’re committed to putting customers at the heart of everything we do.
“We know that having a fund to support young people as they start adult life can make a real difference – opening up opportunities at a pivotal moment in their lives. That’s why we’re supporting the HMT Taskforce as the industry comes together to ensure the funds reach those they were intended for.”
Richard Stocker, Head of Savings, Nationwide said: “Nationwide is pleased to be part of the Child Trust Fund taskforce and fully supports its aims.
“We remain committed to working collaboratively across the industry to build on the progress made so far and deliver a meaningful outcome on this important issue.”
Over 450 Blue Badges have been cancelled after findings show permits issued to deceased residents were still being used
459 unauthorised Blue Badges cancelled in Wirral Council, saving over £363,000 for the taxpayer.
Potentially fraudulent permits identified with a data matching tool through the Public Sector Fraud Authority’s National Fraud Initiative.
Nationally, the estimated value of Blue Badges cancelled was over £34 million across the past two years.
Over 450 Blue Badges have been cancelled after findings show permits issued to deceased residents were still being used. This joint operation between the Public Sector Fraud Authority and Wirral Council protects parking spaces for those who truly need them and has saved taxpayers over £363,000 between 2024-2025.
Blue Badges give disabled people access to parking where they need it most, with every fraudulent badge denying that access to someone in genuine need. In the last two years, the estimated value of Blue Badges cancelled across the country was over £34 million, as the government is now finding and stopping fraud faster than ever before.
The government’s National Fraud Initiative matched Wirral Council data against central government records held by the Department for Work and Pensions. By cross-referencing these matches to internal records, the investigation team generated a high-priority ‘hotlist’, leading to the cancellation of 459 badges potentially being used fraudulently, with a loss prevention value of over £363,000.
Traffic wardens in the Wirral will now conduct targeted patrols including roads near local schools, with powers to confiscate badges on the spot. Residents misusing badges following the death of the badge holder face formal warning letters and fines of up to £1,000.
Cabinet Office Minister Satvir Kaur said: “Blue Badges are a lifeline for disabled people, allowing them to go about their daily business safely and with dignity. Every time a badge is misused, it unfairly deprives someone in genuine need of a vital parking space right when they need it most.
By working closely with Wirral Council, we are ensuring those in need are properly supported and taxpayer money is protected.
Wirral Council leader and Chair of the Policy and Resources Committee, Cllr Paula Basnett, said:“The Blue Badge scheme is an important means of support for some of our most vulnerable residents, but sadly it seems it has become subject to an acceptable level of misuse across the country.
“Our response in Wirral has been to use all the tools at our disposal to conduct a proactive, intelligence-led operation, which is backed up with a stronger enforcement strategy. This includes giving traffic wardens the power to immediately cancel and remove illegally used badges and issue warning letters with the potential for fines up to £1,000.
“We have also been collaborating closely with our neighbouring Council in Liverpool to support the management of formal prosecutions. This demonstrates our joined-up approach to tackling fraud locally.”
This builds on work done by the government to fight fraud across the public sector, with £7.53 billion saved for the taxpayer over the past year due to our efforts to identify and dismantle fraud across both central and local government.
These measures are part of our long-term commitment to reduce the estimated £55 billion to £81 billion lost annually to fraud and error across government, as we create a more productive and agile state.
Up to 40,000 disabled people and people with health conditions will benefit from expanded access to personalised support, as the government rolls out Support Conversations across a further 27 Jobcentres taking the total number of sites to 33
Support Conversations expanding to a further 27 Jobcentres across Great Britain, bringing the total to 33 sites.
Disabled people and those with health conditions on out of work benefits are being offered a one-to-one, voluntary, hour-long conversation to discuss their support needs and identify extra help. This support is personalised and could link people to help with their health, debt, skills, employment and housing.
Part of the government’s wider £3.5 billion investment to help disabled people and those with health conditions into work over the Parliament.
Support Conversations are voluntary, hour-long sessions designed to help people identify and overcome the barriers stopping them from moving into work or into meaningful activity (such as volunteering) and is part of the commitment the Government made in last year’s Pathways to Work Green Paper
Unlike standard Jobcentre appointments, Support Conversations take a holistic approach, covering not just employment, but housing, debt, skills, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation services. Support Conversations are delivered by Healthcare Professionals, Pathways to Work Advisers, and Disability Employment Advisers, and are available face to face, by video, or by telephone.
They are open to those who are awaiting a Work Capability Assessment and people furthest away from the labour market – assessed as having Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA).
These are people who for too long were written off and denied support. But the government’s expansion of Support Conversations is giving people they help they need and builds on the landmark deployment of 1,000 Pathways to Work Advisers, who have already helped more than 65,000 sick and disabled people get one step closer to work.
Minister for Employment Dame Diana Johnson said: “Too many disabled people and people with health conditions face barriers that stop them from accessing the support and opportunities they deserve.
“That is why we are expanding the number of sites delivering Support Conversations from 6 to 33 Jobcentres across Great Britain, giving up to 40,000 people personalised help tailored to their circumstances.
“Getting more people into good work is central to our Plan for Change and Support Conversations will help us do exactly this.”
This expansion builds on testing already live in six sites where support conversations are being delivered by healthcare professionals and disability employment advisers. Early testing indicates customers feeling “listened to” and “supported.”
Neil, a Disability Employment Adviser in Bournemouth said: “Support Conversations are a great opportunity to spend an hour focused on the claimant and their needs.
“We all know that many people face a whole range of challenges which need to be overcome as part of their individual journey back to work and talking through those challenges with a DEA is an important first step.
“Support Conversations confirm that the most valuable resource we have is the time that we spend with our claimants.”
Saimha, a Healthcare Professional in Preston said: “Support Conversation is about providing compassionate, informed, holistic, person-centred support to disabled people and those with health conditions. Every interaction is an opportunity to make someone feel heard, safe, and supported.
“Every person’s health journey is unique and support conversation is an opportunity to identify the range of barriers people are facing in their day to day life and signposting them to the relevant services that can help, encouraging people to take positive steps towards improving their lives.”
This expansion forms part of the UK government’s Pathways to Work offer and its broader £3.5 billion employment support package, which includes:
Connect to Work, which delivers tailored, personalised, local support that will help 300,000 people into work by the end of this parliament.
The national expansion of WorkWell, backed by £259mn, helping up to 250,000 people with health conditions to stay in or return to work.
Allowing sick or disabled people to try work without the immediate fear of reassessment through the Right to Try.
The deployment of 1,000 Pathways to Work advisers who’ve already helped tens of thousands of people the previous Government wrote off.
The government will continue to test the success of Support Conversations through healthcare professionals and disability employment advisors as part of this expansion, with Pathways to Work Advisers also carrying out these Support Conversations for the first time. 27 sites have been confirmed so far, with a further six sites to be confirmed shortly.
The expansion directly supports the government’s Plan for Change and its mission to raise living standards across the UK by helping more people into work and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Additional Information:
Support Conversations are currently offered to people awaiting a Work Capability Assessment (WCA) who have registered a health condition or disability that impacts their ability to work and those assessed as having Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA).
The conversations are entirely voluntary.
List of confirmed sites (note 6 further sites to be confirmed shortly):
Every family across the UK will pay less tax on meals and days out as new VAT cut helps families enjoy trips to the seaside and making memories with loved ones.
“I cannot think of a simpler and more accessible way to bring some affordable treats into family life this summer” – more businesses back the scheme and commit to passing on savings to customers including Butlin’s, Burger King, Wetherspoons and Picturehouse.
ALL FAMILIES can enjoy children’s meals in restaurants and days out for less from today as the Great British Summer Savings tax cut goes live today.
With every family set to benefit, the scheme will see VAT cut from 20% to 5% on eligible activities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This tax cut will help families enjoy weekend treats, days out, and day trips that make the most of the summer.
Meanwhile, the scheme will support businesses by generating additional summer footfall. Businesses up and down the country have confirmed their involvement in Great British Summer Savings, including some of Britain’s most prominent attractions and eateries.
Picturehouse, Everyman Cinemas, Vue, Butlin’s, Wetherspoons, Shepherd Neame pubs, McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King are among the businesses that have made the commitment to pass on these savings to customers since the Chancellor held a roundtable with major leisure and hospitality companies last week.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:“The cost of living isn’t just about paying the bills, it’s about being able to afford the moments that matter with your family.
“Whether it’s a trip to the cinema, a day out together or family meal, too many parents have had to hold back because of pressure on household budgets – that’s why we’re slashing VAT on family days out this summer.”
Haven Holidays is also participating and expects to give up to £5 million back to families across their 39 parks during the scheme. Families will benefit whether they have already booked their holiday or book in the coming weeks.
In addition to passing on the reduction in VAT on their kids’ menus, Haven holidaymakers who purchase the Play Pass as part of their booking will receive a £7.50 voucher for each child. These vouchers can be redeemed against any of the many activities available on its parks.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said:“I know the cost of living is a number one concern for families, and it can be even harder over the summer holidays when kids want to do things and money is tight. So we’re making it that bit easier for families to make memories together and enjoy the little treats – while giving a boost to businesses across the UK.
“This comes on top of support we’ve already put in place including freezing fuel duty, taking off £117 off energy bills, and freezing prescriptions and rail fares.
“We are able do this because we have the right economic plan, resulting in the UK having the fastest growing economy in the G7.”
Prices will be slashed for:
Children’s menu meals served in restaurants for consumption on the premises
Children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows and exhibitions
Admission tickets, for both children and adults, to a range of attractions, including amusement parks, fairs, museums, zoos, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks and observation attractions.
Lyn Goleby, Founder and Chair of Picturehouse, said:“I cannot think of a simpler and more accessible way to bring some affordable treats into family life this summer.
“We’re looking forward to a summer of family cinema that is super charged in every way except price.”
Simon Palethorpe, CEO of Haven, said:“Summer is a time for making memories, and that’s why we’re giving back up to £5 million to our guests and owners as part of the Government’s Great British Summer Savings initiative.
“We know household budgets remain under pressure, and we want to help our holidaymakers enjoy more of what matters – whether that’s a hole-in-one on the Crazy Golf, a leap of faith off The Jump tower or another shot to hit the bullseye in the Archery.”
A Butlin’s spokesperson said:“We’re pleased to support the Great British Summer Savings initiative by passing on the temporary VAT reduction where eligible.
“Families visiting our resorts will enjoy savings on Day Visits and children’s meals across a range of our dining venues during the campaign period.”
YESTERDAY (Friday, 19 June, 2026), police received multiple calls from members of the public about violent attacks including, threats, robbery and vandalism across Edinburgh, with five people injured.
Five men, two aged 22, and others aged 24, 27, and 39, sustained a range of injuries and three required hospital treatment, however none of the injuries are life threatening.
A 36-year-old white Scottish man was arrested and there is no further threat to the public.
Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is investigating, supported by other specialist colleagues and local policing officers.
The first report originated from around 8.50pm in the Sighthill area, where two men were injured. They were taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary by ambulance.
Over the following period, reports were received about incidents around retailers across the West and North of the city.
During this period, three other men were attacked in the Telford Road and Leith Walk areas, suffering differing injuries.
Around 9.30pm, local police officers equipped with Taser confronted a suspect and, although Taser was not discharged, the man was detained.
The individual remains in custody and enquiries continue. Local policing patrols will continue across the area and our communities will see a visible policing presence over coming days.
Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: “This was a shocking attack and my first thoughts are with those who were injured and most directly affected.
“I want to send a clear message of support to all our communities that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate in a Scotland which is at its best when we stand together.
“Officers responded to multiple reports of a fast-moving sequence of events across Edinburgh before arresting a man and public safety was our priority.
“Extensive work is ongoing to establish all the circumstances. We are being supported by Counter Terrorism Policing and working under the direction of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.
“I want to thank our officers who responded with bravery and professionalism, and with a focus on protecting the public.
“I’m hugely grateful for the support and assistance of our communities and would appeal for anyone with any information to share it with police. We have established a major incident police portal.”
The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.
We would appeal to anyone with information that could assist with enquiries to upload it using the online form here:
First Minister John Swinney said: “I am deeply concerned by these incidents. There is no place for violence, racism or intolerance in our country.
“I met community groups last week to assure them of the strong support of the Government.”
Prime Minister (at time of writing! – Ed.) Sir Keir Starmer tweeted: “Absolutely appalling.No one should face violence on our streets.
“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. I will not tolerate this – he will face the full force of the law.
‘My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response.’
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood added: “I am horrified by news of the attack in Edinburgh.
“I am grateful to the police and emergency services for their bravery in apprehending the suspect and for their speedy response in attending to the victims.
“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred.
“There is no place for hatred and violence against Muslims. I know it is not who we are as a country.”
Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch said: “People should be free to worship, work and walk our streets without fear. The attack in Edinburgh is disturbing.
Violence in our streets is bad enough but reports indicate some of the victims were targeted because they were Muslim. This is abhorrent.
“I am glad police acted swiftly. The victims and their families deserve justice, and the public must have confidence that the law applies equally to everyone.”
Council Leader responds to attacks in Edinburgh
Following a series of incidents across the city yesterday (Friday 19 June), Council Leader Jane Meagher has condemned the attacks and has paid tribute to the response of emergency services.
Councillor Meagher said: “I was shocked and outraged to hear about the appalling incidents that took place across the city on Friday.
“I, and fellow Councillors, stand in solidarity with those affected by what must have been a deeply traumatic experience. My thoughts are with those injured in the attacks and I wish them a quick recovery.
“I want to pay tribute to Police Scotland, including counter terrorism officers, and other emergency services for their quick action.
“I absolutely echo the words of Police Scotland that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate. I condemn all acts of racist violence and disorder – there is simply no place for it in our city.
“Those in our Muslim communities may understandably be feeling worried and concerned. I want to reassure that we will be working closely with Police colleagues and other partners to do all we can to make sure that communities across the city are safe and supported.
“Edinburgh is a proud diverse and welcoming city – strengthened by those from all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and walks of life that live here. Incidents like this remind us of the need to stand together against racism and prejudice.”
THE EDINBURGH INTERFAITH ASSOCIATION HAS ISSUED A STATEMENT:
MUSLIM COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND CALLS FOR REASSURANCE AND COMMUNITY VIGILANCE
The Muslim Council of Scotland remains deeply concerned by the violent incidents reported across Edinburgh yesterday, including the stabbing of two young Muslim students in Broomhouse and attacks on individuals perceived to be Muslim.
We welcome Police Scotland’s update confirming that a man has been arrested, there is no further threat to the public, and enquiries remain ongoing.
We have sought reassurance from Police Scotland, particularly as mosques and community organisations host family events this weekend and members of the Shia community prepare to mark Muharram in the coming days.
We encourage communities to remain calm, vigilant and mindful of their personal safety, and for organisers to review security arrangements where appropriate.
Our thoughts are with all those injured and affected. We thank Police Scotland and emergency services for their swift response and continued engagement.
MUSLIM ENGAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT STATEMENT
Four people were attacked and hospitalised across West Edinburgh and Leith last night. Several are Muslims. Our prayers are with them – may Allah grant them healing and protection.
Police Scotland must treat this as what the evidence indicates: Islamophobic, far right terror. To investigate these attacks while ignoring a motive shouted aloud at the point of arrest would tell every Muslim in Scotland the law does not see the hatred aimed at them. We expect a hate crime investigation and prosecution, and we stand ready to support the families.
To our community: stay vigilant, look out for one another, report what you see. You are not alone.
