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The government has confirmed it will establish a new annual national day to honour victims and survivors of terrorism, with the first commemoration scheduled for 21 August 2026.
The move delivers on a long-standing commitment to acknowledge those affected by terrorist attacks and follows sustained campaigning from victims, survivors, and advocacy groups seeking formal recognition and greater public awareness of the lasting impact of terrorism.
The national day will take place each year on 21 August, aligning with the UN International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism. The event will be hosted in a different location annually to reflect the widespread impact terrorism has had on communities across the UK.
According to the government, the day will serve four core purposes: remembering victims, recognising survivors, encouraging access to specialist support services, and educating the wider public by amplifying the stories of those directly affected.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis said the initiative underscores the nation’s resolve in the face of terrorism.
“Terrorism will never weaken our resolve as a country. The victims and survivors of terrorism must be honoured and remembered. They have our unwavering support and recognition.”
He added that victims and survivors would continue to shape how the day is marked in future years.
“Victims and survivors will always guide how we observe this important day, and I look forward to marking it together.”
The government will now work closely with those affected to help design the format of the inaugural 2026 event. Work is also underway to agree a formal name for the day and develop a dedicated symbol over time.
The decision has been welcomed by several prominent campaigners, including Travis Frain OBE, who survived the Westminster Bridge attack.
“It is important that as a society we commemorate and remember those affected – for the impacts are often lifelong,” he said. “A national day of recognition would provide an opportunity to remember those we have lost, pay tribute to the resilience of survivors, and educate the next generation.”
Frain, who has long campaigned for the creation of such a day, said he was “immensely grateful and privileged” to see the government proceed with the proposal.
Figen and Stuart Murray, parents of Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack, also welcomed the development.
“This day will honour the lives lost and ensure their memory will never fade, but it also acknowledges the immense courage of survivors. Their resilience remains a source of national unity,” they said.
The national day will be marked for the first time in August 2026, with further details to be set out following consultations with victims and survivors.
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