The UK government has unveiled a new initiative aimed at strengthening the nation’s defenses against cyber threats. The £1.9 million funding scheme will support 30 “Cyber Local” projects across England and Northern Ireland, with the goal of protecting the digital economy and boosting the country’s cyber skills. This initiative, first announced at a global cybersecurity meeting in September 2024, will address various regions in England, including Northern Ireland, the Midlands, Yorkshire, and the South West, with projects designed to enhance resilience to cyber-attacks and foster the development of future cybersecurity talent.
The projects will focus on a range of areas, including supporting local businesses’ ability to resist cyber-attacks and providing career opportunities for young people interested in cybersecurity. Specific programs will also aim to support neurodiverse talent and upskill workers in small businesses, helping them better navigate the digital landscape. A notable initiative in the West Midlands will focus on empowering women and girls, addressing the unique risks of cyber-related violence and abuse they may face in the digital world.
Although the UK’s cybersecurity sector is one of the largest globally, contributing £11.9 billion to the national economy, the country faces significant challenges due to a growing skills gap. According to recent estimates, the UK’s cyber workforce gap has expanded by 27% annually, reaching over 93,000 vacancies by 2024. The shortage of skilled professionals is becoming increasingly problematic, especially given the digital economy’s significant value, which exceeds £158 billion annually.
Jonathan Ellison, Director for National Resilience at the National Cyber Security Centre, emphasized the scheme’s importance in making the UK the safest place to live and work online. The initiative aims to empower communities with the skills necessary to tackle digital threats. While some cybersecurity experts express concerns about the adequacy of funding in relation to the scale of ambition, the initiative represents a positive step in addressing regional disparities in cybersecurity expertise and bridging the growing talent gap across the nation.
