UK Government – Page 23 – The NEN

UK sanctions people-smuggling gangs and enablers in global crackdown

Gang ring leaders, key intermediaries and suppliers of people-smuggling equipment have today been hit with the first ever sanctions targeting irregular migration by the UK

UK sanctions 25 targets at the heart of people-smuggling networks that drive irregular migration to the UK.
Sanctions come on day 1 of the UK’s world-first dedicated sanctions regime targeting irregular migration and organised immigration crime.
Action marks latest step in government’s campaign to secure Britain’s borders and reduce irregular migration, delivering on the Plan for Change.

Gang ring leaders, key intermediaries and suppliers of people-smuggling equipment have today [July 23] been hit with the first ever sanctions targeting irregular migration by the UK.

Today’s sanctions target individuals and entities involved in people-smuggling and driving irregular migration to the UK, from a small boat supplier in Asia, to informal Hawala money movers in the Middle East, to gang leaders based in the Balkans and North Africa.

They cover a range of different activities from supplying small boats explicitly for smuggling, to sourcing fake passports, middlemen facilitating illicit payments through Hawala, people-smuggling via lorries and small boats, and the gangland leaders themselves.

Sanctions can disrupt the flow of money and materials – including freezing property, bank accounts and other assets – which allow organised criminal gangs to operate this vile trade.

The plans are ‘a key example of the FCDO using innovative foreign policy approaches to deliver on the government’s Plan for Change’.

The regime will be the world’s first dedicated to targeting people-smuggling and organised immigration crime, with the exploitation of vulnerable people by criminals and their associated networks being one of the key drivers of irregular migration to the UK.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: “This is a landmark moment in the government’s work to tackle organised immigration crime, reduce irregular migration to the UK and deliver on the Plan for Change.

“From Europe to Asia we are taking the fight to the people-smugglers who enable irregular migration, targeting them wherever they are in the world and making them pay for their actions. 

“My message to the gangs who callously risk vulnerable lives for profit is this: we know who you are, and we will work with our partners around the world to hold you to account.”

Among those sanctioned today is Bledar Lala, an Albanian who is in control of the ‘Belgium operations’ of an organised criminal group which smuggles migrants from Belgium across the English Channel to the United Kingdom.

Sanctions have also been brought against a company in China which has advertised their small boats on an online marketplace explicitly for the purpose of people-smuggling. The boats advertised are of the type used by criminal gangs in which migrants are packed, before being sent across the Channel at huge risk.

The UK is also sanctioning Alen Basil, a former police translator who went on to lead a large smuggling network in Serbia, terrorising refugees, with the aid of corrupt policemen. Basil was subsequently found to be living in a house in Serbia worth more than one million euros, bought with money extorted from countless desperate migrants.

Also sanctioned is Mohammed Tetwani, the self-styled “King of Horgos”, who brutally oversaw a migrant camp in Horgos, Serbia and led the Tetwani people-smuggling gang. Tetwani and his followers are known for their violent treatment of refugees who decline their services or cannot pay for them.

Today’s package also includes individuals like Muhammed Khadir Pirot, a hawala banker involved in informal money transfer networks, which people-smugglers use as a way of taking payment from migrants.

All of those sanctioned today are publicly named and barred from engaging with the UK financial system, helping to further undermine their operations.

NCA Director General Graeme Biggar said: “The NCA is determined to use every tool at our disposal to target, disrupt and dismantle the criminal networks involved in people-smuggling, preventing harm to those they exploit for profit and protecting the UK’s border security.

“These new sanctions powers will complement that NCA activity. We have worked with the FCDO and partners to progress the designation of these sanctioned persons.

“They will give the UK a new way of pursuing, undermining and frustrating the operational capability of a wide range of organised immigration crime networks, including those who facilitate or enable offending.”

Today’s designations are the first made under the UK’s new Global Irregular Migration Sanctions Regime. The regime is a world first and empowers the FCDO to impose sanctions not only on individuals and entities involved in people-smuggling to the UK, but also any financiers and companies found to be enabling their activities.

The FCDO has worked closely with the National Crime Agency and other partners to develop its cases and ensure they complement law enforcement activity.

Today’s announcement is part of the FCDO’s three-pronged ‘disrupt, deter, return’ strategy to tackle irregular migration globally.

In addition to disrupting organised immigration crime networks through sanctions, the FCDO works with source and transit countries to deter would-be migrants from making a dangerous journey in the first place and works with the Home Office to negotiate the return of people who have no right to be here to their countries of origin, including criminals and failed asylum seekers.

Since the election, over 35,000 people have been returned, up 13% on the same period in the year before.

The individuals and entities sanctioned today can be seen below:

Iraqi-linked people-smuggling

Goran Assad Jalal, formed part of an organised crime group which stowed migrants in refrigerated lorries which crossed the English Channel from France to the United Kingdom on at least ten occasions between January and March 2019.
Hemin Ali Salih, helped smuggle migrants into the UK in the backs of lorries.
Dedawan Dazey, a people-smuggler who runs safe houses for migrants in Northern France before they are smuggled to the United Kingdom.
Roman Ranyaye, an Iraqi people-smuggler responsible for the smuggling of migrants from Asia to Europe.
Azad Khoshnaw, for supplying inflatable boats, onboard motors and other maritime equipment for use in people-smuggling of migrants from France to the UK.
Nuzad Khoshnaw, for equipping gangs in Northern France with outboard motors, inflatable boats, and other maritime equipment for use in people-smuggling to the UK.
Nihad Mohsin Xoshnaw, for providing inflatable boats, outboard motors and other maritime equipment used by migrants to cross the English Channel from France.

Hawala Network

Muhammed Khadir Pirot, a hawala banker who controls payments from people being smuggled from the Kurdistan region of Iraq to Europe via Turkey.
Mariwan Jamal, controls money movements through a Hawala banker, which handles payments to people smugglers from migrants in Iraq.
Rafiq Shaqlaway, involved in hawala banking as an advisor to migrants looking to pay smugglers operating routes into Europe via Turkey.

North African gangs operating in the Balkans

Kazawi Gang, a people-smuggling network which controls people-smuggling routes from North Africa into the EU known to deal out harsh punishments to migrants who are unable to pay.
Tetwani Gang, known as one of the Balkan’s most violent people-smuggling gangs, members are reported to hold migrants for ransom and sexually abuse women unable to pay their fees.

Gangland bosses

Bledar Lala, leads a smuggling ring moving people from Belgium across the English Channel to the UK. 
Alen Basil, a former police translator who through violence and intimidation became boss of a large people-smuggling network.
Mohammed Tetwani, the head of the ‘Tetwani’ gang and self-styled “King” of Horgos in Serbia.
Yassine Al Maghribi Al-Kasaoui, the boss of the “Kazawi” gang.

Balkan gangs supplying fake passports

Kavač Gang, a Balkan organised crime organisation known to use fake passports to smuggle its gang members between the Balkans and Turkey.
Škaljari Gang, an organised crime organisation in Montenegro that smuggles criminals between the Balkans and Turkey.
Dalibor Ćurlik, procures fake passports and forged documents for use in the Kavač gang’s people-smuggling.
Almir Jahović, member of the Kavač gang, which is involved in supplying fake passports for smuggling gang members across borders
Marko Petrović, a member of the Kavač gang which sources false identification and passports for use in people-smuggling.
Nikola Vein helps the Škaljari Gang secure fake passports and travel documents for use in people smuggling.
Ratko Živković, a Škaljari Gang associate, which gathers fake passports for the purpose of smuggling gang members across borders.
Dejan Pavlović, a member or close associate of the Škaljari Gang, which supports the manufacture of false identities and passports.

The following company based in China has been designated over the manufacture of inflatable boats being advertised for people smuggling.

Weihai Yamar Outdoors Product Co

Background to the Global Irregular Migration sanctions regime

Using the powers conferred by the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act (the Sanctions Act) the Government has laid secondary legislation before Parliament that introduces a new Global Irregular Migration sanctions regime. The Regulations will be debated by both Houses of Parliament when they return from the summer recess in line with the made affirmative procedure.
The UK Sanctions List FCDO – UK Sanctions List Search – GOV.UK

Asset freeze

An asset freeze prevents any UK citizen, or any business in the UK, from dealing with any funds or economic resources which are owned, held or controlled by the designated person. UK financial sanctions apply to all persons within the territory and territorial sea of the UK and to all UK persons, wherever they are in the world. It also prevents funds or economic resources being provided to or for the benefit of the designated person.

Travel ban

A travel ban means that the designated person must be refused leave to enter or to remain in the United Kingdom, providing the individual is an excluded person under section 8B of the Immigration Act 1971.

Government revives Pensions Commission to address ‘retirement crisis’

Millions of people could benefit from a more secure retirement as the UK Government revives the landmark Pensions Commission to examine why tomorrow’s pensioners are on track to be poorer than today’s and make recommendations for change.

Without action tomorrow’s retirees are on track to be poorer than today’s.
Almost half of working-age adults are still saving nothing with low earners, some ethnic minorities and the self-employed least likely to be pension saving.
Revived Pension Commission will consider the long-term future of our pensions system to make today’s workers better off in retirement.

Millions of people could benefit from a more secure retirement as the Government revives the Pensions Commission to examine why tomorrow’s pensioners are on track to be poorer than today’s and make recommendations for change.

The Commission of 2006 was a huge success, building a consensus for the roll-out of Automatic Enrolment into pension saving that means 88% of eligible employees are now saving, up from 55% in 2012.

However, new analysis shows that there is more to do with the incomes of retirees set to fall over the next few decades if nothing changes:

Retirees in 2050 are on course for £800 or 8% less private pension income than those retiring today.
4-in-10 or nearly 15 million people are undersaving for retirement.

This partly reflects too many working age adults (45%) saving nothing at all into a pension, with lower earners, the self-employed and some ethnic minorities particularly at risk:

Over 3 million self-employed are not saving into a pension.
Only 1-in-4 low earners in the private sector are saving into a pension.
Just 1-in-4 of those from a Pakistani or Bangladeshi background are saving.

New analysis also reveals a stark a 48% gender pensions gap in private pension wealth between women and men. A typical woman currently approaching retirement can expect a private pension income worth over £5,000 less than that of a typical man (just over £100 per week for a woman compared to just over £200 a week for a man).

While the introduction of Automatic Enrolment increased the numbers saving, saving levels have often remained low. Around 1-in-2 workers in the private sector only save around the minimum contribution level (8% or less of earnings).

So the Government has announced it will revive the landmark Pension Commission two decades on, to address these stark findings.

The relaunched Commission will explore the complex barriers stopping people from saving enough for retirement, with its final report due in 2027. It will examine the pension system as a whole and look at what is required to build a future-proof pensions system that is strong, fair and sustainable.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: “People deserve to know that they will have a decent income in retirement – with all the security, dignity and freedom that brings. But the truth is, that is not the reality facing many people, especially if you’re low paid, or self-employed.

“The Pensions Commission laid the groundwork, and now, two decades later, we are reviving it to tackle the barriers that stop too many saving in the first place.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “We’re making pensions work for Britain.

“The Pension Schemes Bill and the creation of pension megafunds mean an average earner could get a £29,000 boost to their pension pots. Now we are going further to ensure that people can look forward to a comfortable retirement.”

Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said: “The original Pensions Commission helped get pension saving up and pensioner poverty down. But if we carry on as we are, tomorrow’s retirees risk being poorer than today’s.

“So we are reviving the Pensions Commission to finish the job and give today’s workers secure retirements to look forward to.”

Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive of the Confederation of British Industry said: “The only route to higher living standards both in work and in retirement is through higher growth, productivity and better savings.

“As we look to the next decade and beyond, finding a consensus across business, government and our society on how to support people to save by building on the Mansion House reforms can create a pathway to a better future.

“Taking the time to review the best pathway to achieve this, whilst pursuing broader measures to support growth, will be needed to make it affordable for employers and workers and crucial to the aim of rising living standards, now and in retirement.”

Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress said: “Everyone deserves dignity and security in retirement, but right now many workers – especially those in the private sector – will find themselves without enough to get by on.

“Far too many people won’t have enough pension for a decent retirement, and too many – especially women, BME and disabled workers and the self employed – are shut out of the workplace pension system all together.

“That’s why reviving the Pensions Commission – bringing together unions, employers and independent experts – is a vital step forward. Twenty years ago the Pension Commission played a key role in bringing millions more people into workplace pensions and reducing the risks of pensioner poverty.

“We now have a chance to build on that work by reaching a long-term consensus on extending auto-enrolment to those workers still missing out, and making sure that this system delivers the decent retirement incomes all workers need.”

Rocio Concha, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Which? said: “Which? research has found that many consumers are concerned that they won’t have the money they need for a comfortable retirement, so it is encouraging to see the government take steps to reverse this trend.

“For some consumers, the idea of contributing more money into their pension pot is both daunting and unmanageable, so it is crucial that this review looks in depth at the challenges savers face, and Which? looks forward to working with the government towards long-term reform of the industry.”

The Pensions Commission will be made up of Baroness Jeannie Drake (a member of the original Commission), Sir Ian Cheshire and Professor Nick Pearce, who will be responsible for steering its work. Drawing on the success of the original Pension Commission in building a national consensus, they will work closely with stakeholders such as the Confederation of British Industry and the Trades Union Congress.

The Commission will make proposals for change beyond the current parliament to deliver a pensions framework that is strong, fair and sustainable. It will build on the Investment Review and Pension Schemes Bill – both of which ensures that people’s savings are working hard to support them in retirement.

Alongside the Commission, the Government has, as required by law, also launched the State Pension Age Review, commissioning two independent reports for Government to consider when deciding the State Pension age for future decades:

Dr Suzy Morrissey will report on factors government should consider relating to State Pension age.
The Government Actuary’s Department will prepare a report on the proportion of adult life in retirement.

Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director of Age UK said: “We warmly welcome the Pensions Review, which has the potential to lay the foundations for a system of retirement saving that’s fit for the future.

“If we’re to avoid future generations of pensioners experiencing financial hardship, we need reforms that enable more people to build a decent standard of living, and we need them sooner rather than later to maximise the numbers who can be helped.

“Income for pensioners in the UK is based around both State and private pensions working together to help people enjoy a decent lifestyle once retired. The current system of saving has some significant gaps which have left many current pensioners struggling to make ends meet.

“Hopefully this can be avoided in future and particularly disadvantaged groups, including low-paid women and self-employed people on low incomes, can be helped to put money aside when appropriate for them to do so.

“There’s no getting away from the fact that the State Pension provides the bulk of retirement income for most pensioners, with 1.1million (13%) receiving all their income from the State.

“It’s therefore hugely important to consider the future of the State Pension alongside the role of private savings, as only once this is clear will it be possible to say with any accuracy how much people need to put aside to attain a decent standard of living once they retire.

“We look forward to working with the Government and the reviewers in the months to come.”

Jonny Haseldine, Head of Corporate Governance and Business Environment Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: Too few people are saving enough for retirement, affecting millions of employees and the firms we represent. Businesses want to help their staff make the right decisions for their financial futures.

“We welcome the launch of the new Pensions Commission – which is a timely and necessary next step from the original Commission over two decades ago.

“It is essential we have a pensions system that supports both employees to build up savings and employers in managing costs. That’s even more crucial in the current economic climate.

“We also welcome the reiterated commitment that employer contribution rates won’t be increased during this parliament. Any future rises in minimum contributions must be gradual and paused if economic conditions worsen, giving business time to adjust to increased costs.”

Jon Richards, General Secretary of UNISON said: “Every worker needs a pension they can rely upon in their old age. No one should be plunged into poverty when they retire.

“Any initiative that enhances current provision would be a good thing, especially moves to improve equality between men and women.

“With more pensioners falling into poverty as time goes by, it’s vital the commission works quickly.”

António Simões, CEO of Legal and General said: “Saving enough for retirement isn’t just important, it’s urgent to securing individual futures and building a more prosperous society.

“To do this we must tackle adequacy – we need people to be able to contribute the right amount from the first pound they earn, and to build a pot that is invested in assets that will generate returns to support them in later life.

“That’s why the launch of the new Pensions Commission matters. Whether that is gradually increasing minimum auto-enrolment contribution rates or making it easier to access private market investments, like L&G has delivered through its Private Markets Access Fund, it is time to break down the barriers to building a retirement pot that are faced by millions across the country.”

Miles Celic OBE, Chief Executive Officer of The CityUK said: “The Pensions Adequacy Review is another positive step in reforming pensions investment.

“Auto-enrolment has been a policy success, bringing millions into retirement saving, but further action is needed to ensure pension savings are adequate to provide an appropriate level of income for our ageing population.

“Total contributions will have to rise if we are to emulate the successes of, for example, Australia and Canada. This will involve difficult political choices alongside technical changes to policy and regulation, so it is right the appointees to the Commission consider the options thoroughly and, crucially, that they also draw on the industry’s significant expertise.”

Steve Webb, Partner at LCP said: “The first Pensions Commission changed the UK pensions landscape and started the process of reform by getting millions of employees saving for the first time.

“But much work remains to be done, and this new Commission will have to consider reforms against a much more challenging backdrop.

“The Government has selected people who are widely respected in the world of business, the trade union movement and academia, who will be well placed to undertake this vital work, and I look forward to working with them constructively as they map out a new agenda for retirement saving.”

David Raw, Managing Director for Markets at UK Finance said: “We welcome efforts to help ensure people are saving enough to deliver a decent level of income in retirement.

“Boosting financial and pension literacy, continuing to encourage private pension holding, and building on the success of auto-enrolment are key to achieving this.

“Well-functioning capital markets play a key role in a successful pension system and UK Finance looks forward to continuing to work closely with government as it progresses its programme for capital markets and pension reform.”

Chira Barua, CEO of Scottish Widows and CEO of Insurance, Pensions & Investments, Lloyds Banking Group said: “We’ve been mapping trends in the UK’s retirement saving for 20 years and while automatic enrolment has been a gamechanger in kickstarting pensions saving for millions of workers, 39% (around 15 million) still risk facing poverty in retirement and action needs to be taken while there’s still time.

“Bringing all the right groups and the pensions industry together in this way made real progress last time, and we look forward to supporting the Commission in getting closer to cracking the pension crisis.”

ORGREAVE: ANSWERS AT LAST?

Campaigners welcome government announcement to hold an Orgreave Inquiry

Since setting up in 2012 the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign (OTJC) have worked relentlessly to place on the political agenda the urgent need for an inquiry into the role of the police and government during the miners’ strike at the Orgreave coking plant on 18th June 1984 and why neither the police or government have ever been held to account.

An inquiry should give clear answers to:

– who was responsible for organising and ordering the deployment of multiple police forces, including mounted police armed with truncheons, shields and dogs, against striking miners?

– who and how was it decided that striking miners should be attacked and arrested at Orgreave and charged with riot and unlawful assembly, which carried heavy prison sentences?

– why has the police operational order for police deployments that day disappeared and other evidence been destroyed or embargoed until 2066 and 2071?

The revelations about the role of South Yorkshire Police (SYP) in the Hillsborough tragedy after the report of the Hillsborough Independent Panel in September 2012, the Inside Out television programme of October 2012 highlighting fabricated evidence by SYP against miners charged at Orgreave and the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) report of May 2015 indicating the need for a wider inquiry into policing at Orgreave, gave further impetus for why the OTJC rightly believed that the case for an inquiry was absolutely necessary.

The Conservative Government repeatedly refused to hold any kind of Orgreave inquiry.

Labour Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper has recently been exploring the key issues for an inquiry / investigation such as the scope and format to ensure it best meets the needs outlined by various stakeholders including the OTJC, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), lawyers and politicians.

We are pleased that the Home Secretary has now ordered that an independent inquiry with statutory powers will finally go ahead and we look forward to meeting with the Chair of that inquiry to discuss the draft terms of reference of the inquiry.

OTJC Secretary, Kate Flannery, said: “We have waited a long time for this day and this is really positive news. All these years of hard work by the OTJC and our many supporters has helped to influence this constructive announcement.

“We appreciate the Labour Party’s 9 year commitment to holding some kind of Orgreave inquiry. We now need to be satisfied that the inquiry is given the necessary powers to fully investigate all the aspects of the orchestrated policing at Orgreave, and have unrestricted access to all relevant information including government, police and media documents, photos and films”

Kevin Horne, miner arrested at Orgreave said: ““It is now over 41 years since a paramilitary style police operation was planned at Orgreave and it is important to remember that some of the miners attacked and arrested there are now dead and many others are old and ill.

“We need a quick and thorough inquiry with a tight timescale so that surviving miners can at last obtain the truth and justice they have been waiting for. Plenty of information exists and has already been obtained to give an inquiry a substantial head start”

Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: ““I pay tribute to the campaigners who never stopped in their search for truth and justice, and I look forward to continuing to work with them as we build an inquiry that gets the answers they and their communities deserve.”

ORGREAVE_Leaflet_2022 Download

Orgreave Justice campaigners say the The inquiry should:

have the power to require all the relevant information and evidence to be produced to it;
ensure those who have an interest in the inquiry must be able to fully participate in order to lend their experience, knowledge and understanding to the process;
be accessible and inclusive to allow people to provide oral contributions to the evidence gathering process.

This is an historic and momentous announcement, and the OTJC looks forward to the next stages and the inquiry commencing as soon as possible.

Great British Energy ‘to cut energy bills for community facilities’ – in England

Libraries, fire stations and care homes in local communities will benefit from cheaper energy bills through Great British Energy community funding as part of Plan for Change
Mayoral authorities to receive a share of £10 million for publicly-owned clean energy projects
Complements Great British Energy’s drive to cut bills for around 200 schools and 200 hospitals, which is already seeing savings

Libraries, fire stations and care homes in local communities will benefit from cheaper energy bills as Great British Energy delivers on the government’s clean energy superpower mission to make working people and their communities better off.

Great British Energy, the government’s publicly-owned clean energy company, has awarded mayoral authorities a share of £10 million in grant funding to roll out clean energy projects at the centre of communities – including rooftop solar on Merseyside care homes and on leisure centres and libraries in Yorkshire.

These grants will mean that the community services and institutions that working people use will be able to save on their electricity bills and spend more money on the frontline services that strengthen local communities and boost local economic growth.

It is estimated that these schemes could produce a total of around £35 million of lifetime savings on energy bills, while improving energy security and creating good jobs.

As well as solar panels on public buildings, the grants will pay to install batteries for community buildings in areas including Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire, so they can store renewable energy and use it later. The grants will also fund EV chargers in Greater Manchester, to make it easier for drivers to benefit from cheaper to power electric vehicles.

Great British Energy is already cutting energy bills for public services, with solar panels already installed on 11 schools as part of plans to roll out the panels on around 200 schools and 200 hospitals in England.

The government’s clean energy superpower mission will protect billpayers, create jobs and bring greater energy security through delivering clean power by 2030. Great British Energy will accelerate this by developing, investing and building clean energy projects across the UK.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Your local sports hall, library and community centre could have their energy bills cut by Great British Energy, the government’s publicly-owned clean energy company.

“Our plans will mean more money can be spent on the services that make working people better off and help strengthen the ties that bind us in our communities.

“This is what Great British Energy is all about – taking back control to deliver lower bills for good.”

Great British Energy CEO Dan McGrail said: “Today’s support for new clean power projects in every region in England shows our mission in action – providing a lasting positive impact for the country by creating new jobs, lower bills, and a cleaner future.

“It’s important that communities feel the benefits of the energy transition and that we demonstrate the very real rewards it can bring.”

Earlier this year, all Mayoral Strategic Authorities were invited to submit expressions of interest for funding renewable energy projects that can be delivered in the 2025/2026 financial year.

Liverpool City Region Combined Authority will use the money to support a rooftop solar project to support care homes and leisure centres, cutting around £4.6 million on lifetime energy bills, while Greater Manchester will also roll out rooftop solar on libraries, fire stations, police stations and sports centres, leading to estimated savings of over £2.1million on lifetime bills.

Projects in York and North Yorkshire are estimated to bring around £4 million in lifetime bill savings, they include solar panels to help power an Edwardian swimming pool in York and leisure centres in Whitby, Ripon and Thirsk.

It follows the government’s announcement in March to award £180 million of funding for schools and hospitals to install rooftop solar, marking the first major project for Great British Energy – a company owned by the British people, for the British people. This could see millions invested back into frontline services, targeting deprived areas, with lifetime bill savings for schools and the NHS sites of up to £400 million over the next 30 years.

Successful Mayoral schemes:

The figures below were estimated by DESNZ in collaboration with MSAs, based on a combination of project-level data and DESNZ standard assumptions. It should be noted these are initial estimates that will be refined as projects become operational and actual data is collected.

MSA	Technology	Project Type	Grant Funding Requested (£)	Total expected project cost (£)	Estimated Net Yearly Average Energy Bill Savings (£ undiscounted, 2025 prices)	Estimated Net Lifetime Energy Bill Savings (£ undiscounted, 2025 prices)
Greater Lincolnshire	Solar	Leisure centres and fire stations	£607,845	£627,845	TBC	TBC
South Yorkshire	Solar	Schools, outdoor covered market and library	£572,025	£615,397	£51,938	£1,558,131
Greater London Authority	Solar	Schools	£607,838	£674,220	£30,376	£911,280
Hull and East Yorkshire	Solar	Service buildings and car parks	£700,000	£1,842,879	£89,822	£2,694,647
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough	Solar	Police headquarters, car park and border canopies	£700,000	£774,226	£51,630	£1,548,886
Greater Manchester	Solar, Battery and EV	Libraries, fire stations, police stations and sports centres	£695,900	£1,301,800	£71,846	£2,155,384
North-East	Solar	Schools	£700,000	£749,946	£46,060	£1,381,806
York and North Yorkshire	Solar	Leisure centres, libraries, schools, transport sites	£700,000	£1,219,948	£134,898	£4,046,936
West Yorkshire	Solar and Battery	Police stations, Arrium plant nursery, primary school, sports centres and Lotherton Hall Estate	£700,000	£1,154,838	£275,669	£8,270,082
Tees Valley Combined Authority	Solar	Solar on roof of depot and public buildings	£444,738	£444,738	£34,664	£1,039,911
Liverpool City Region	Solar	Leisure centres and care homes	£700,000	£760,319	£152,402	£4,572,054
East Midlands	Solar	Former colliery	£700,000	£1,900,000	£113,340	£3,400,200
West Midlands	Solar	Schools	£700,000	£820,000	£58,474	£1,754,207
West of England	Solar	Schools	£700,000	£1,657,522	£54,123	£1,623,697
Total			£9,228,346	£14,543,678

Landmark package to pursue domestic abuse perpetrators

Victims of domestic abuse to be protected under a £53 million drive to target most dangerous offenders in England and Wales

Thousands more women and children will be better protected from domestic abuse through the direct targeting of perpetrators, the Home Secretary has announced.

Backed by a £53 million investment over the next 4 years, domestic abuse perpetrators who pose the highest risk will be forced to change their behaviour and stop their offending as more police and agencies roll out tactics shown to reduce abuse.

It will form a central part of the government’s Plan for Change and pledge to tackle the epidemic of domestic abuse, which sees the police record a domestic abuse-related crime every 30 seconds.

The Drive Project has been piloted since 2016 to address the root causes of abuse through intensive one-to-one case management for up to 12 months. This includes using protection orders to keep offenders away from victims, alongside work to address drug misuse and alcohol dependency. A dedicated independent domestic violence advisor (IDVA) supports the victim in parallel, ensuring their safety and needs are prioritised at every stage.

The results have seen percentages of perpetrators using physical abuse cut by 82%, sexual abuse by 88%, stalking behaviours by 75% and jealous and controlling behaviours by 73%.

The multi-million pound investment will see up to 15 new areas going live by March 2026, with full roll-out across England and Wales to follow.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “The roll out of these new programmes means the relentless pursuit of perpetrators who pose a risk to women and girls whether they operate at home or on the streets – and intervening early to prevent further harm.

“Through our mission to make our streets safer, we will take every opportunity to challenge and change dangerous behaviours, intensively monitor and manage perpetrators who pose a risk, and give victims the support they need to take back their lives.”

The Drive Partnership, a consortium of 3 organisations – Respect, SafeLives, and Social Finance – is working to end domestic abuse and protect victim-survivors. The Drive Project is their flagship intervention working with those causing harm in their relationships to prevent abusive behaviour.

Rolling out The Drive Project demonstrates that the government is committed to doing things differently, working closely with civil society and bringing experts into policy development to improve the lives of working people. Today’s announcement comes ahead of the Civil Society Summit being held on Thursday 17 July, where the Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips will join a violence against women and girls panel with Beyond Equality, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner and Minister Davies-Jones.

Alongside tackling domestic abuse, the government is also funding 3 police forces to step up efforts to prevent predatory behaviour in public spaces and night time economy venues through Project Vigilant.

Currently being trialled by Thames Valley Police, alongside several other forces across the country, specially trained plain-clothed officers are patrolling nightlife hotspots to hunt down predatory behaviour, with uniformed officers then stepping in to keep the public safe.

A further £230,000 will enable specialist deployments in 3 police forces, support the trial of new tools – including sniffer dogs trained to detect drugs commonly used in spiking – and help to gather evidence on how the approach works in different settings.

Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, Jess Phillips said: “Through bold initiatives like the Drive Project and Project Vigilant, we’re going after perpetrators wherever they pose a threat.

“We are shifting the focus onto those who cause harm, challenging dangerous behaviours and making it clear that the responsibility for ending abuse lies with perpetrators, not those who suffer from it.

Through our mission to make our streets safer, every penny we invest in holding perpetrators to account is a step towards a better and safer future for every victim.”

The Drive Project will be delivered in partnership with police and crime commissioners, police forces, domestic abuse services and the Drive Partnership, and supported by national training and resources.

Case managers work closely with high-risk perpetrators for up to 12 months, building their capacity to manage emotions and relationships differently, removing opportunities for abuse through close monitoring and disruption tactics and ensuring dedicated support for victims.

Interventions are tailored to each perpetrator’s risk level and pattern of abuse and can include:

disruption tactics such as police intervention and the use of protection orders
engagement with social services to safeguard families and children
alternative accommodation to prevent perpetrators from returning to victims’ homes
addressing drug and alcohol dependencies that can fuel abusive behaviour
behaviour change to address patterns of control and violence
monitoring and accountability to prevent reoffending
dedicated support for victims to help them rebuild their lives and move on

The Drive Partnership welcomes today’s Home Office announcement of a £53 million investment over four years to expand the Drive Project to increase the safety of victim-survivors of domestic abuse, in all communities, by putting the focus on the perpetrators.

This is the result of ten years of working in partnership across specialist domestic abuse services and statutory agencies, and would not be possible without the collaboration of a wide range of both statutory and non-statutory partners, and the ongoing support of a range of funders, including the National Lottery Community Fund, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, and Treebeard Trust.

The Drive Project is the Drive Partnership’s flagship intervention for high-risk, high-harm, perpetrators of domestic abuse. This investment will see local service providers working together with the Drive Partnership and across all agencies to deliver the Drive Project throughout England and Wales.

The Drive Partnership and its Board are pleased that the Government has committed to halving violence against women and girls within a decade. Alongside the need for well-funded local support and recovery services for victim-survivors, targeting perpetrators to address the root causes of violence and abuse will be essential.

The Drive Project is an evidence-based service, delivered by specialist local service providers, that increases the safety of adult and child victim-survivors of domestic abuse and helps prevent future victims by targeting perpetrators and using multi-agency working to disrupt and stop abuse. It always includes dedicated support for victim-survivors and families.

The Home Office’s investment into the expansion of the Drive Project aligns with the Drive Partnership’s 2024 Call for Further Action recommendation for consistent and evidence-informed multi-agency responses to high-risk, high-harm perpetrators across all areas.

This Call for Further Action, supported by over 100 organisations, was developed with the input of the Action on Perpetrators Network, the Drive Partnership delivery and co-production partners, and SafeLives Pioneers.

It also calls for recognition across government that domestic abuse is everyone’s business. It is not solely a criminal justice issue, but requires cross-departmental investment. This is a priority that the Network will continue to pursue.

The Drive Partnership has been working to end domestic abuse and protect victim-survivors in all communities for over a decade; marking 10-years of disrupting, challenging, and changing the behaviour of those who are causing harm, using a consistently evidence-informed approach.

The Drive Partnership looks forward to expanding this work to protect victim-survivors, in close collaboration with specialist domestic abuse organisations and statutory partners, and would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved.

Shana Begum, SafeLives Pioneer & lived experience expert, said, “Perpetrator interventions are vital to breaking the cycle of domestic abuse – as a SafeLives Pioneer, I strongly believe that we have to stop asking “Why doesn’t she leave?”, and start asking “Why doesn’t he stop?”, and that is what the Drive Partnership puts into action.

“After working closely with the Drive Partnership for a number of years, I’m pleased to see this expansion across all areas in England and Wales so that the responsibility of domestic abuse is placed firmly on those causing harm.”

Kyla Kirkpatrick, Director of the Drive Partnership, said, “We welcome this investment from the Home Office into the expansion of the Drive Project across England and Wales because victim-survivors tell us that as well as more support for themselves, they want and need better responses to the people causing harm in their lives.

“They need them to be seen, held to account and stopped. The Drive Project does that and with ten years of delivery, development and evaluation behind us we know that it works.

!This work can only happen if the focus is absolutely on the safety and wellbeing of the victim-survivors. This investment will see the vast majority of funding flow directly to local domestic abuse perpetrator services and victim-survivor support services, and we will be working in partnership with local services to ensure that the Drive Project is tailored to meet the needs of local communities.

“We look forward to the forthcoming VAWG strategy to support victim-survivor services with much-needed investment and cross-departmental commitment.”

Rosie Jarvis, Deputy Director of the Drive Partnership, said, “We warmly welcome the Home Office’s investment in the expansion of the Drive Project, which we know through its evidence base has a significant impact on harm and risk reduction in perpetrators and increased safety for victim-survivors.

“This investment and expansion will be a significant step towards addressing the postcode lottery of responses to high-risk, high-harm, and serial perpetrators and breaking the costly cycle of domestic abuse.”

Jess Asato MP, said, “Too often we ask why domestic abuse victims don’t leave, instead of asking why perpetrators don’t stop their abuse – so this landmark investment by the Government is incredibly welcome.

“was proud to work on the early stages of the Drive Partnership which, through its innovative, evidence-driven approach, has proven that we can make victims safer and change perpetrator behaviour.

“This investment will be one important step towards achieving the Government’s mission to halve violence against women and girls.”

Detective Superintendent Jon Capps, Head of Rape and Sexual Offences and Project Vigilant at Thames Valley Police, said: “We welcome funding which supports vital proactive initiatives to disrupt those who behave in a predatory manner and offend against women and girls.

“Our Project Vigilant officers are specially trained to spot predatory behaviour, intervening and preventing it escalating into an offence.

“This year we have conducted 50 Vigilant deployments across the Thames Valley, all of which highlight our commitment to keep people safe, specifically in the night time economy and increasingly with large public events.

“Our aim is to take a suspect-focused approach, creating safer public spaces and building trust and confidence in our policing response.”

Michael Kill, CEO, Night Time Industries Association: “We welcome today’s announcement and fully support the government’s £53 million package to target the most dangerous domestic abuse perpetrators. A perpetrator-focused approach is essential – accountability must lie with those who commit these crimes, not the women who endure them.

“We understand that predatory behaviour is a pervasive issue within society and must be addressed wherever it occurs – across communities, public spaces, and institutions. Over recent years, the industry has worked hard to drive awareness and put robust mitigations in place – through staff training, use of CCTV, awareness campaigns and strengthened partnerships with key stakeholders and policing.

“Today’s announcement – particularly the expansion of the Drive Project and Project Vigilant, as well as the introduction of specially-trained officers to address predatory behaviour – is a vital step toward tackling the root causes of abuse. It will provide greater protection for women and support operators in disrupting harmful behaviours early.

“The NTIA is committed to supporting the government’s Plan for Change and its goal to halve violence against women within a decade. We will continue working closely with government, policing, and local authorities to embed a perpetrator-focused culture of safety and accountability throughout the night time economy.”

This investment comes after the government announced a boost of nearly £20 million in support for victims of abuse, including £6 million for helplines which can offer life-saving support.

A relentless pursuit of perpetrators will form a central part of the government’s upcoming strategy on violence against women and girls, shifting the burden of safety away from victims and onto the perpetrators responsible for these devastating crimes. The strategy will also set out action to transform the system’s response to VAWG, including on prevention, early intervention, enforcement and victim support.

Future of the Post Office to be shaped by postmasters and customers

UK Government launches the Post Office Green Paper, the first comprehensive review of the Post Office in 15 years

First comprehensive review of the Post Office in 15 years, with customers and postmasters shaping its future.
Post Office Green Paper will seek to transform the organisation’s culture in the wake of the Horizon scandal and changing customer demands.
Better services at the heart of new £118 million subsidy to fund the Post Office’s Transformation Plan and further network investment, moving the organisation closer to delivering growth in line with the Plan for Change.

Postmasters and the public will have the opportunity to shape the future of the Post Office for the first time in 15 years, as the Government sets out its vision for the next decade for the organisation.

The Post Office Green Paper, published today, will move further and faster to deliver a decade of renewal for customers and postmasters, building on the cultural reset being led by Post Office Chair Nigel Railton that will be so crucial to its success.

Working hand in hand with postmasters and the public the Government will ensure the network is put on a path to a strong and sustainable future with Post Office branches remaining at the heart of communities across the UK.

This includes on the Post Office’s ownership model, with concepts including mutualisation on the table for consideration following the publication of the final Horizon Inquiry report later this year.

The report is expected to provide recommendations on improving the structure of the Post Office so that this miscarriage of justice is never allowed to occur again, protecting postmasters whilst also providing reassurance for customers.

This follows an unprecedented period in which the Post Office has faced a series of major challenges, from the Horizon IT scandal to significant changes in consumer behaviour, such as a rise in online shopping and falling demand for traditional post.

Post Office Minister Gareth Thomas said: “Post Offices continue to be a central part of our high streets and communities across the country. However, after fifteen years without a proper review, and in the aftermath of the Horizon scandal, it’s clear we need a fresh vision for its future.

“This Green Paper marks the start of an honest conversation about what people want and need from their Post Office in the years ahead.

“I look forward to hearing the views of customers, business owners and postmasters so we can build a Post Office capable of serving the public for generations to come.”

The consultation will run for 12 weeks, closing on 6th October 2025. It will examine key areas including:

How Post Office services should evolve to meet changing consumer needs
Ways to strengthen the relationship between the Post Office and its postmasters
Options for modernising the network while ensuring services remain within local reach
Ensure the Post Office is well-equipped to adapt to consumer trends
How the Post Office can improve and develop the banking services it provides

Research published alongside the Green Paper today also highlights the important role the Post Office still plays in the daily lives of people and businesses, adding social value of around £5.2 billion per year to households and £1.3 billion annually to small and medium sized businesses.

As part of the Government’s commitment to securing the future of this vital national institution, Ministers have also announced plans to award a new subsidy package of up to £118 million to fund the Post Office’s Transformation Plan and further investment to improve the network.

This funding will protect key services, including access to cash deposits and withdrawals as well as key government services, such as passport applications and the DVLA, alongside helping the Post Office deliver cost-saving measures in its Transformation Plan, part of the New Deal for Postmasters.

The Green Paper and details on how to respond to the consultation can be found here.

Joe Wicks and UK Government join forces to get children moving

New animated series for kids, known as Activate, will get more children across the country moving more and encouraging a healthier lifestyle

Children to be inspired to get physically active over summer as Joe Wicks, MBE, launches Activate, a new animated series for kids
Created by Joe and produced by Studio AKA, Activate aims to tackle inactivity among children through fun, five-minute workouts – led by Joe as an animated character
Programme backed by government funding as part of Plan for Change to give children the best start in life

Children are being inspired to move more this summer following the launch of a new series from fitness coach, Joe Wicks MBE, backed by the UK government as part of a new partnership to reach schools and families across the country.

The innovative animated Activate series features five-minute episodes which combine animation with upbeat music, courtesy of Universal Music UK, encouraging children to enjoy short bursts of movement that easily fit into their day and can be transformational for their physical and mental health. The government will be backing the programme to fund a further ten episodes.

The series has been co-created by Joe and BAFTA award-winning Studio AKA (creators of Hey Duggee), bringing the nation’s favourite fitness coach to life through animation for the first time.

Activate is backed by the government’s 10 Year Health Plan, which is already hitting the ground running with its pledge to work with influencers and changemakers across society to shift the NHS from treating illness to preventing it.

The new animated series was unveiled at Ripple Primary School in Barking, east London, where Joe Wicks and Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, met teachers and parents to discuss keeping kids moving over the summer holidays and beyond.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Childhood obesity robs our young people of their future, and inactivity is one of the biggest culprits. That’s why it’s crucial to start building healthy habits from a young age.

“Our 10 Year Health Plan sets out how we would tackle obesity through prevention and today demonstrates how we’re taking action. In the spirit of mission-driven government, we’re building a coalition of the willing to tackle the obesity epidemic head-on.

“This initiative directly supports our focus on giving children the best start in life—a cornerstone of our Plan for Change. By investing in prevention today, we’re building a healthier generation for tomorrow.”

Being physically active is good for physical and mental health and helps relieve pressure on the NHS, preventing an additional £10.5 billion worth of treatment a year. Despite that, inactivity levels remain stubbornly high for adults and children, with huge inequalities across the country. The Activate programme represents a collaborative approach to tackling this growing health challenge.

The first episode is now available on Joe Wicks’ The Body Coach YouTube channel, with further episodes set to be released weekly over the summer holidays.

The series is released five years after Wicks united the nation with PE With Joe, which received over 100 million views online. Now, Joe is on a renewed mission to get children moving through this series.

Joe Wicks said: “Activate is the natural next step in everything I’ve worked towards over the past decade. From my early YouTube workouts, to ‘PE with Joe’ during the pandemic, my goal has always been to get children moving and feeling good – physically and mentally.

“This project brings together everything I am most passionate about, and everything I’ve learned on my journey – going back to my own childhood where I discovered movement as a way to cope with the challenges of living with parents with drug addiction and mental health issues.

“Activate is designed to make movement fun and inclusive for every child, with short, high-energy workouts that fit into everyday life – these can be enjoyed in the living room, the garden, in the classroom, or anywhere else!

“As a dad, I know how important it is to make movement something kids enjoy, not something they have to do. That’s exactly what Activate is all about so I hope it can be a real support for busy families, this summer and beyond.”

Earlier this month, the UK government launched its 10 Year Health Plan, which outlined how a shift from sickness to prevention will safeguard the nation’s health and put forward a range of measures to tackle growing rates of childhood obesity.

Obesity rates have doubled since the 1990s, including among children. A forthcoming report by the Chief Medical Officer will show that more than 1 in 5 children are living with obesity by the time they leave primary school, rising to almost 1 in 3 in areas with higher levels of poverty and deprivation.

Measures included in the 10 Year Health Plan include:

Launching a world-first partnership with food retailers and manufacturers to help families make healthier choices
Restricting junk food advertising targeted at children
Reforming the soft drinks industry levy to drive reformulation

This two-pronged approach of encouraging active lifestyles and healthy diets aims to tackle the UK’s most preventable chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, whilst tackling the £11.4 billion bill that obesity costs the NHS a year.

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, said: “I know what a difference sport and physical activity make in shaping a young person’s life. It’s why we’re investing £400 million in grassroots facilities for all, joining up schools with sports clubs across the country and backing major events that inspire.

“For too long, it has felt as if we have hit a ceiling on participation in this country, and for too long the dial on inactivity has gone unmoved. Together, through initiatives like this, we will put that right and deliver on our Plan for Change.”

With Universal Music UK as the exclusive music partner, each episode features upbeat tunes from UK artists, including Becky Hill and Bastille. Each track has been chosen for its appeal to parents and children alike.

Sue Goffe, Chief Executive at Studio AKA, said: “We’re thrilled to bring the world of Activate to life through animation.

“Collaborating with Joe Wicks has been a joy, and we’re proud to be part of this creative project to inspire movement and wellbeing in children.”

Sarah Boorman, General Manager, Youth Strategies at Universal Music UK, said: “Our shared goal with Joe was to make being active feel like something children genuinely want to do, powered by great music which is appropriate for them and loved by families too.

Alison Lomax, Managing Director for YouTube UK & Ireland, said: “We’re so excited that Joe Wicks is bringing his new kids’ fitness show Activate to YouTube just in time for the (English – Ed.) holidays.

“Joe’s fun, energetic approach to getting kids moving has already made a huge impact on our platform, and Activate is set to become a go-to for families looking to keep active over the summer. It’s great to see YouTube being used in such a positive way – bringing free, accessible, and family-friendly fitness to homes everywhere.”

Created by Studio AKA, the BAFTA-winning creators of Hey Duggee, the Activate series sees Joe Wicks brought to life through animation alongside six loveable new characters, ‘The Activators’, accompanied by upbeat music from top UK artists. Together, they make movement feel personal, playful, and inclusive – so every child can find a character to connect with.

Joe and the Activators lead children through fun, five-minute bursts of movement, that can be easily integrated into their day – whether at home, at summer clubs or on the go.

With Wicks appearing as an animated character (a first for the family fitness coach), each short episode offers a burst of movement, fun, and energy to get kids’ hearts pumping and minds engaged. These include easy-to-follow exercises like jogging, squats, and burpees, wrapped up in a playful, gamified format that can keep kids active over the summer holidays and beyond.

But Activate isn’t just for the summer holidays. It will also be available to schools during term time, to help build confidence, support mental wellbeing, and help children develop healthy habits for life.

Joe added: “Being turned into an animated character has been a surreal and wonderful experience, and my dream is that it connects with millions of kids and families across the UK and beyond.”

Discount of up to £3,750 on electric cars set to slash costs

Car manufacturers can apply for the Electric Car Grant from tomorrow

new £650 million grant will slash electric car prices, saving UK households up to £3,750 when they upgrade or switch to electric
car manufacturers to apply through the Electric Car Grant – speeding up access and cutting costs for drivers and businesses
comes as more than 380,000 zero emission cars were registered last year, delivering the government’s Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth and put more money in working people’s pockets

Drivers across the UK will soon enjoy discounts on dozens of new electric car models after the Transport Secretary today (15 July 2025) announced a £650 million grant scheme worth up to £3,750 per car, putting more money back in working people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change and making owning an electric car a reality for thousands.

Supporting the manifesto commitment to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, the £650 million Electric Car Grant (ECG) will back UK and other manufacturers, with eligibility dependent on the highest manufacturing sustainability standards. Discounts up to £3,750 will be available at the point of sale for new eligible electric cars priced at or under £37,000.

Drivers will start to benefit from discounts as soon as manufacturers successfully apply for their zero emission cars to be part of the grant scheme from 16 July 2025, with funding available until the 2028 to 2029 financial year.

With drivers citing upfront costs as a key barrier to adoption, the grant will narrow the upfront cost between petrol and electric vehicles, giving thousands more drivers access to savings of up to £1,500 a year in fuel and running costs compared to a petrol car. The discount means that zero emission cars are now cheaper to buy and run than ever before and comes on top of preferential tax rates, delivering real savings for working families.

Owning and buying an electric vehicle (EV) is becoming cheaper, with 2 in 5 of used electric cars sold at under £20,000 and 34 brand new electric cars available from under £30,000.

‘Standing firmly on the side of British drivers’, this latest investment is part of the government’s major plan to support motorists, including a record £1.6 billion invested to tackle potholes and freezing the fuel duty at 5 pence until spring 2026, saving the average motorist £50 to £60 over the year.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “This EV grant will not only allow people to keep more of their hard-earned money – it’ll help our automotive sector seize one of the biggest opportunities of the 21st century.

“And with over 82,000 public chargepoints now available across the UK, we’ve built the infrastructure families need to make the switch with confidence.

“This is our Plan for Change in action. We’re backing British drivers, British jobs and British growth.”

This latest scheme builds on the government’s major £63 million package to support at home charging for households without driveways, transition NHS fleets to electric and create thousands of chargepoints at business depots across the country.

In total, the government is investing £4.5 billion to turbocharge the switch to EVs, securing Britain’s position as a world-leader in electric vehicle adoption while helping put more money in people’s pockets. Today, the UK is already a global leader in the transition to zero emissions driving, with the largest EV market in Europe in 2024 and sales up a fifth on the previous year.

The latest update also comes as the UK hits over 82,000 public chargepoints nationwide – with one added every 30 minutes – giving peace of mind to drivers that they will be able to charge conveniently at home, work or on longer journeys.

This latest move comes alongside the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, which requires manufacturers to sell increasing percentages of zero emission vehicles each year. Recent changes to the mandate give industry the certainty, stability and support they’ve been asking for, alongside crucial trade deals with the US, India and the European Union following the recent global economic headwinds.

Simon Williams, RAC head of policy, said: “Within weeks, discounted cars should start appearing at dealerships across the country. And, as the biggest savings will be given to cars with the strongest ‘green’ manufacturing credentials, drivers will be picking models that are not only better for their wallets, but better for the planet too.

“This is further welcome news following last week’s announcement about more funding for pavement gully charging solutions that will enable those without driveways to charge an EV at home. Together, these initiatives should mean more drivers than ever start benefitting from the lower costs of running an electric car.”

Vicky Read, CEO of ChargeUK, said: “This announcement is brilliant news – for drivers and for the UK’s transition to electric vehicles.

“With a commitment to invest £6 billion through to 2030, the UK’s charging industry has rolled out infrastructure ahead of demand to ensure that when drivers switch, the network is there to make charging as convenient as possible.

“There are now 82,000 public charge points and a new one goes in the ground every 29 minutes on average.

“Hot on the heels of the weekend’s announcement on measures to support charging, including meeting ChargeUK’s calls for improvements to signage on main roads, today’s package is another vital boost to the charging industry, helping it invest with confidence.”

Dan Caesar, CEO, Electric Vehicles UK, said: “A targeted incentive program is a significant step forward in encouraging consumers to buy battery electric vehicles and to make them more accessible. While battery-only EVs are much cheaper to buy and run than most realise, surveys show that cost misperceptions are the primary reason for hesitance.

“A generous grant of this nature gives a new group of interested buyers, who might have thought that going electric was beyond them, a gentle nudge into what is great tech. More than 9 out of 10 battery EV drivers will never revert, and there’s a reason for that.”

John Lewis, CEO, char.gy, said: “It’s encouraging to see the government stepping up to support consumers in making the switch to electric vehicles. This move brings us closer to a future where driving electric is accessible to everyone – not just the privileged few.

“Combined with the introduction of the price cap and the additional funding for on-street charge points, we can get more affordable cars on the road and more people enjoying the benefits of EVs. The outcome will be cleaner air for all and more cash in the consumer’s wallet as they enjoy the long-term savings of driving electric.”

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Today’s announcement of the return of government support for the purchase of electric vehicles is a clear signal to consumers that now is the time to switch.

“Rapid deployment and availability of this grant over the next few years will help provide the momentum that is essential to take the EV market from just 1 in 4 today, to 4 in 5 by the end of the decade.

“This announcement is a welcome response to consistent calls from the industry for more support, which will be in addition to the substantive subsidies already provided by manufacturers.

“Taken with recent announcements regarding infrastructure investments and the Industrial Strategy, the UK has the opportunity to maintain its position as a leader in both the manufacture and sale of zero emission vehicles.”

World’s largest fund of its kind to support vulnerable families

Chancellor launches new £500m Fund to break down barriers to opportunity for up to 200,000 vulnerable children and young people and deliver Plan for Change.
World’s largest fund of its kind will boost pupil achievement and could fund programmes to reduce reoffending or provide specialist workers for children struggling with exclusion, mental health or crime.
Better Futures Fund will run for ten years, with plans to raise another £500 million from local government, social investors, and philanthropists on top of government’s funding
The launch is backed today by groups including Save the Children UK, The King’s Trust and Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government.

Struggling and vulnerable families and children are to be given a better start in life after a new government fund was announced today (Monday 14 July), which will provide them with the support and funding needed to access a better education, a safe home, and the caring supportive environment they need to flourish.

The Better Futures Fund will support up to 200,000 children and their families over the next ten years by bringing together government, local communities, charities, social enterprises, investors, and philanthropists to work together to give children a brighter future.

It could fund providing support in schools to improve attendance, behaviour and overall achievement of pupils, intervening to free children from a life of crime, and offering employment support to secure their futures.

The fund, which is the largest of its kind in the world, will be launched by the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves at a visit to a school today in Wigan, hosted by the charity AllChild.

It could fund providing support in schools to improve attendance and behaviour, intervening to free children from a life of crime, and offering employment support to secure their futures.

By investing in early support to tackle challenges like school absence, addiction and re-offending, the fund will help give children the stability and opportunity they need to thrive – delivering on a key part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change to give every child the best start in life.

It comes ahead of the government hosting the first Civil Society Summit this week, where the government will set out a comprehensive plan on how this government will partner with experts from outside the traditional corridors of power to create solutions that work for real people – all through the principles of fairness, collaboration and trust.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “I got into politics to help children facing the toughest challenges. This fund will give hundreds of thousands of children, young people and their families a better chance.

“For too long, these children have been overlooked. Our Plan for Change will break down barriers to opportunity and give them the best start in life.”

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “This groundbreaking Better Futures Fund represents a major step in partnering with the impact economy, which has long played an important role in strengthening communities and driving inclusive growth.

“As part of the Plan for Change, we’re bringing together government, local authorities, charities, social enterprises and philanthropists to create a powerful alliance that will transform the lives of vulnerable children and young people.

“We owe them the best start in life. Together we will break down barriers to opportunity, ensuring those who need support most aren’t left behind and have the chance to reach their potential.”

Social Outcomes Partnerships have already been used with success across the UK, with over 180 commissioners using the model across the country. The Greater Manchester Better Outcomes Partnership (GMBOP), for example, works with young adults in the Greater Manchester area who are at risk of homelessness.

AllChild’s projects have already halved persistent school absences, and 80% of children have improved emotional wellbeing. Other programmes like the Skill Mill offer paid work experience and qualifications, reducing reconviction rates from 63% typically to 8% and three quarters of those in the programme progress to further employment, education or training.

This fund is a big step in the government’s work with the impact economy – unlocking extra resources from philanthropy, social investors and businesses to tackle urgent social challenges. Today’s announcement comes as the government’s Child Poverty Strategy is to be published in autumn to ensure it delivers fully funded measures that tackle the structural and root causes of child poverty across the UK.

The launch is backed today by groups including Save the Children UK, The King’s Trust and Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government.

Today’s announcement is informed by consultation with the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group and other representatives from civil society, purpose-driven business, and local government.

Over the coming months the UK Government will build on this and develop a strategic approach to working with the impact economy, who have long played an important role across the UK economy in unlocking innovation, driving inclusive growth and strengthening community resilience.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones said: “Partnering with impact capital to tackle child poverty was a personal priority for me coming into government – which is why I set up the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group to advise on the development of this brilliant fund, which we’ve been delighted to support as a government.

“I’d like to thank Dame Elizabeth Corley for chairing the group and all the members for their hard work.”

Louisa Mitchell MBE, Chief Executive Officer, AllChild said: “I warmly welcome the government’s Better Futures Fund as a pivotal step toward transforming how we support children and families across the country.

“It’s vital that children engage with the right support and opportunities, at the right time, in the right way. Holistic support that is rooted in each child’s local community, builds on their strengths, and places trust and relationships at the heart of delivery.

“I hope this fund will be a catalyst for a new way of working – one which prioritises prevention, shared accountability for locally identified outcomes, and genuine cross-sector partnerships. This is how we can ensure every child no matter where they live has the support and opportunities they need to flourish.”

Richard Rigby, Head of UK Government Affairs, The King’s Trust said: “At The King’s Trust, we know that timely support can change the course of a young person’s life. Potential is everywhere but opportunity is not.

“The Better Futures Fund is an investment in the potential of young people who are too often left behind. We welcome this commitment to early intervention and collaboration with organisations like ours to tackle inequalities and help young people build brighter, more secure futures.

“By getting behind young people, we can all help to make the UK a healthier, wealthier, more positive and cohesive place.”

Further details on the fund will be set out in due course. It will be delivered by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

New panel of young people to shape UK Government’s Youth Guarantee

Young people with experience of being out of education, employment and training will help shape policy as part of a new Youth Guarantee Advisory Panel in England

New panel of young people to advise the Government on shaping employment support for the next generation launched in Youth Employment Week.
Group identifies mental health challenges and a lack of focus on apprenticeships in schools as some of the biggest barriers to getting into work or training.
Panel marks major milestone in building the Youth Guarantee to give every 18-21-year-old the chance to earn or learn and break down barriers to opportunity as part of the Plan for Change.

Young people with experience of being out of education, employment and training will help shape policy as part of a new Youth Guarantee Advisory Panel.

The panel, made up of 17 young people aged 18 to 24, will regularly meet to discuss the biggest barriers they face to building their careers and advise what can be done to break these down.

It comes as the latest data shows one in eight young people are currently not in education, employment or training – demonstrating the urgent need for reform to ensure the next generation get the support they need to get on in work and in life.

Officially launched in Youth Employment Week, the step to put young people’s voices at the heart of decision-making marks another major milestone in building the UK Government’s Youth Guarantee to ensure all 18-to-21-year-olds in England get the chance to earn or learn.

Panel members were recruited with the help of our partners, Youth Futures Foundation and Youth Employment UK. These key organisations support the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department for Education to run the sessions.

Early insight from the panel has found that some of the most significant obstacles include mental health challenges and an overemphasis in school on UCAS applications instead of tailored careers advice, including alternative options like apprenticeships and training. Lack of public transport and access to digital tools and devices have also been raised as barriers.

The Government has already started making changes to address these challenges – including reforming the apprenticeship system, providing access to mental health support in every school and college and maintaining the £3 bus fare cap on single bus fares in England outside of London.

This comes alongside wider Get Britain Working reforms to transform Jobcentres and roll out eight Youth Guarantee trailblazers across England to test and deliver targeted skills and employment support for young people.

All views shared in the panel meetings will go on to inform policy to ensure that the Youth Guarantee best serves young people.

Giving every young person the best start in life is central to the Government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity in every part of the country as part of the Plan for Change.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: “Young people know better than anyone the challenges they face – and the support they need to succeed.

“That’s why their voices will shape how we will deliver a Youth Guarantee that truly works, opening up real opportunities for every 18-to-21-year-old to be in work, training or education.

“Backed by our £45 million investment in targeted youth employment support, this is about unlocking potential, tackling inequality and transforming lives.”

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “For too long, young people have been talked down to and had their opinions dismissed. The Youth Advisory Panel’s contributions so far have been incredibly insightful, and we are already starting to implement some of their suggestions.

“We have started to reform the apprenticeship system, reprioritising funding to young people, cutting red tape to make it easier to start or complete an apprenticeship and introducing foundation apprenticeships to give young people a route into careers in critical sectors.

“We are also committed to improving careers advice, as well as delivering two weeks’ worth of work experience for every secondary school pupil and providing access to mental health support in every school and college.

“We will ensure the Youth Advisory Panel’s views continue to be taken into account as we continue to break down barriers to opportunity to help young people thrive through our Plan for Change.”

Barry Fletcher, CEO, Youth Futures Foundation and Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, CEO, Youth Employment UK said: “We are proud to jointly support the launch of the Youth Guarantee Advisory Panel and welcome the decision by the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department for Education to involve young people from the outset in the design of this policy.

“This partnership is about ensuring young people have a meaningful role in shaping the Youth Guarantee, and it’s encouraging that trailblazers are actively exploring how to do this locally.

“Panel members are already highlighting barriers to education and employment and offering critical insights into the support young people need to succeed.

“We look forward to continuing this work to build a system that works for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

Shana Fatahali, Youth Advisory Panel member and Future Voices Group Ambassador, Youth Futures Foundation said: “It has been empowering to be a member of the Youth Guarantee Youth Advisory Panel.

“I’ve had the opportunity to make connections with other young people who share my passion for creating a better future. Since we are the ones using the system, we are aware of its challenges and where it needs to be improved. For this reason, youth voices are important.

“I’m honoured to be a member of an organisation that is influencing actual decisions and introducing alternative perspectives. I can’t wait to keep advocating for a system that genuinely hears, involves, and supports all youth.”

Brewster, Youth Ambassador, Youth Employment UK said: “During the time I have spent with the Youth Advisory Panel, it has been amazing to see others engage in the activities and discussions.

“I really love how committed my fellow Youth Ambassadors, Youth Employment UK, Youth Futures Foundations, the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department for Education are to change things for the better for the youth.

“I’m really proud to see this happening with my own eyes. I can’t wait to see what things will happen that will positively affect young people. I can’t wait to learn more and work towards making a positive difference to young people.’’

In May, the Government officially launched eight Youth Guarantee trailblazers across England.

Backed by £45 million, the trailblazers are testing a new form of local delivery, matching young people to local job or training opportunities. The trailblazers will provide all-important learnings to inform the national roll-out of the programme.

This comes alongside record investment in skills and apprenticeships, providing a more personalised system for employers and those looking for work.

The Westminster Government has also taken further action to boost employment and drive-up living standards through boosting the National Living Wage, creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill and overhauling jobcentres as part of the Get Britain Working White Paper.

Further information

The Youth Guarantee Advisory Panel has held some early sessions and will meet every six to eight weeks moving forward.
Officials from DWP and DfE may test ideas related to the development of the Youth Guarantee to ensure the policy effectively answers the needs of young people today.
Insights will be fed back to relevant senior officials and ministers after sessions.
The latest ONS figures showing how many young people are not in education, employment or training were published on Friday 23 May: Young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) – Office for National Statistics
The eight youth trailblazers are in: Liverpool, West Midlands, Tees Valley, East Midlands, West of England, and Cambridgeshire & Peterborough and two in London.
The Youth Guarantee is an England only initiative as Skills, Education and Employment support are devolved in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
We are working closely with the devolved governments to share experiences and lessons learned.