As 2025 draws to a close, it’s clear that this has been one of the most transformative years for the UK’s digital public services. From redefining digital identity to scaling artificial intelligence and strengthening national cyber resilience, each month brought new milestones that shaped a more accessible, secure, and innovative government.
The year opened with bold ambitions for a more connected and mobile-first public sector. January saw the announcement that the UK would introduce a digital driving licence, a move designed to make proving identity easier and more secure for citizens.
Supporting these practical changes, the government published A Blueprint for Modern Digital Government, outlining a strategic framework for service transformation over the coming decade. This document emphasised user-centred design, interoperability, and sustainable technology adoption across all public services.
February’s focus was unlocking the potential of technology while ensuring responsible adoption. The Artificial Intelligence Playbook for the UK Government provided practical guidance for public sector teams on using AI ethically and effectively, helping to bridge the gap between innovation and accountability. Meanwhile, the Digital Inclusion Action Plan: First Steps reinforced the government’s commitment to ensuring that digital transformation reaches everyone, particularly those at risk of being left behind, with practical interventions to improve access, skills, and support.
March saw significant investment in workforce development. A new government bootcamp upskilled Whitehall coders into AI specialists, equipping teams with the skills needed to harness AI responsibly and effectively across public services. At the same time, the release of the Cyber Security Sectoral Analysis 2025 offered insights into the emerging threats and opportunities in the UK’s cyber landscape, providing guidance to public sector organisations on how to strengthen national resilience.
April highlighted how local government is embracing AI to improve services and efficiency. Momentum continued to build for the GOV.UK Wallet, enabling citizens to use secure, reusable digital credentials across government services. Cross-government collaboration ensured that the initiative was not only technically robust but also user-friendly, creating a foundation for more seamless and secure digital interactions.
June marked a major milestone with the trial launch of the GOV.UK App, bringing key public services into a single mobile-friendly interface to make access easier and more intuitive The month also saw new government plans to supercharge the UK cyber sector, strengthening national resilience through targeted investments and fostering the next generation of cybersecurity expertise.
July focused on ensuring innovation benefits all regions. The government announced investment for mentoring, skills development, and access to funding for tech innovators outside London, helping to spark digital growth across the country and create new opportunities in underserved regions.
August reinforced the government’s commitment to digital inclusion, launching a £9.5 million fund to help local councils and charities support more people to get online. The initiative targeted communities at risk of exclusion, improving access to services, skills, and devices.
In September DigiGov Expo 2025 brought together thousands of public sector professionals for an inspiring two days of collaboration and fresh thinking. Leaders, managers and practitioners from across government, health, justice, housing and the charity sector came together to share ideas, explore new approaches, and push forward the UK’s digital transformation journey.
October highlighted the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. A major NHS AI trial revealed unprecedented time and cost savings, streamlining patient care and freeing up clinical staff for higher-value work.
The Autumn Budget 2025 in November reinforced the government’s support for the UK tech sector, with measures including investment in digital infrastructure, R&D incentives, and funding for emerging technologies.
The year concluded with the launch of the Government Digital and Data Hub, providing a central space for guidance, collaboration, and best practice sharing across government’s digital and data community.
2025 set the pace, but 2026 will take transformation to the next level. Breakthroughs in AI, digital identity, inclusion and cyber resilience are opening the door to smarter and more human-centred public services. Join us at DigiGov 2026 to discover what’s on the horizon and how these advances will redefine the way the public sector serves the UK.