There’s never been a better time to move to a .gov.uk domain

Authors: Khidr Suleman, Sandra Lowe - Parish Council Domains Helper Service, Cabinet Office

Thinking about moving over to a .gov.uk domain?  Here are four great reasons why there’s never been a better time to make the move:

Funding: 1000 eligible councils will receive a discount of £100 +VAT to offset the initial costs of setting up a new .gov.uk domain in this financial year.  It is extremely unlikely that this funding will be available in future years.   Funding is offered on a first-come-first-served, once per council basis; to date more than 280 councils have taken advantage of this

Step-by-step support: You’ll have access to useful, easy-to-use guides - including templates, checklists and good practice advice - to help you at each stage. Virtual workshops and drop-in sessions are also available for clerks, councillors and council staff alike

Technical hand-holding:  From managing the registration of your domain, to actively supporting device, service and email set-up there’s an Approved Registrar ready to help with the most technical aspects of the move to a .gov.uk domain

Flexibility: If you’re happy with your current website or email provider there’s no reason for you to change - your Approved Registrar can work with them to make the connection to your new .gov.uk domain

The Parish Council Domains Helper Service is offering a wide range of support to all councils moving over to a .gov.uk domain in the financial year 2024-25.  If you’re interested in finding out more please contact parish-helper@domains.gov.uk.