Consultation outcome

National day for victims and survivors of terrorism: government response (accessible)

Updated 24 November 2025

Published on: 24 November 2025

Introduction and contact details

The government consultation on proposals for a national day for victims and survivors of terrorism was open for 12 weeks (from 19 March 2025 to 11 June 2025).

This document sets out the government’s response to the public consultation: national day for victims and survivors of terrorism.

Comments on the government’s response can be sent to vtuconsultation@homeoffice.gov.uk

This report is also available at https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/national-day-for-victims-and-survivors-of-terrorism

Alternative format versions of this publication can be requested from the above address.

Complaints or comments

If you have any complaints or comments about the consultation process you should contact the Home Office at the above address.

Freedom of information

Information provided during this consultation, including personal information, may be published or disclosed in accordance with access to information regimes, primarily the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) and the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA).

The Home Office will process your personal data in accordance with the DPA and, in the majority of circumstances, this will mean that your personal data will not be disclosed to third parties. This consultation follows the UK government’s consultation principles.

Background

Overview

The Home Office launched a public consultation on the topic of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism, to seek views on whether or not this should be introduced and the ways to recognise the lived experiences of victims and survivors.

The consultation sought to explore public views on reasons to support or not support a National Day, and ideas for what key aspects of that day might look like, including opinions on a name, date and ways it could be commemorated, as well as, exploring other forms of recognition.

The consultation paper was published on 19 March. It was open to anyone in the United Kingdom and British Nationals living overseas who have been impacted by terror attacks; members of the public; and organisations with an interest in victims and survivors of terrorism.

The analysis for this consultation was conducted by Verian, on behalf of the Home Office, to understand views towards proposals for a national day.

The consultation period closed on 11 June and this report summarises the responses, including how the consultation process influenced the further development of the proposal consulted upon.

Methodology

The consultation was live for 12 weeks between Wednesday 19 March and Wednesday 11 June 2025 and consisted of a ten-minute survey hosted on GOV.UK. Respondents were asked to complete the survey online but were given the option to complete a Word version of the survey and return it by email if needed.

The Home Office publicised the consultation and encouraged engagement through several means, including sharing through victim and survivor networks, social media and media activity.

The survey consisted of 12 closed-ended questions and five open-ended questions, plus up to ten follow-up questions depending on the answers given to the closed questions, including four profiling questions to understand respondents’ experiences of terror attacks. There were 351 responses to the consultation survey, one of which was submitted via email. As some of the questions asked about details of personal circumstances related to terror attacks, participants were given the choice to opt out of answering questions by selecting ‘prefer not to say’.

This report contains quantitative responses to closed questions, as well as analysis of the common themes mentioned in responses to open-ended questions. This process was conducted by Verian’s coding team and identified from the initial batch of responses common themes of response. Subsequent batches of open-ended responses were similarly coded, with codes being created for responses with more than five mentions throughout the process. Responses that included detail that was either irrelevant to the question, or that didn’t align with themes from other responses were coded as ‘Other’. Quantitative data comparisons, where stated as “statistically significant” are to the 95% confidence level.

One response was submitted on behalf of thirteen individuals, and the data was therefore weighted to reflect this (the single response was up-weighed to account for thirteen responses). No other weighting was applied to the data. Note that in line with standard research practice we have used the unweighted base throughout the report.

In reporting, groups of similar codes have been combined into nets. Nets represent the proportion of respondents who have selected at least one of the codes within each group. For questions where respondents were able to select multiple responses, the net will therefore be equal to or less than the total number of responses of the codes grouped within it

Caveats on the findings in this report

The results are indicative only of those who completed the consultation survey and therefore conclusions drawn are based on consultation survey participants and are not assumed to apply to the general population more broadly.

Respondents to public consultations are self-selecting. Consultation surveys tend to be completed by those with a strong opinion (whether positive or negative), rather than those who have more moderate or unformed views.

Where respondents completed the consultation via the email option, they may not have responded to all questions that were compulsory in the online version. We have only reported on responses that were received which means the total base (number of responses) at each question may vary slightly throughout the report. Respondents to the online survey were not able to submit partial responses. This means that no partial online survey responses have been included in the analysis.

Summary of respondent demographics

The government’s response to the consultation offers an overview of the responses, key findings and sets out the next steps for policy development. There have been 351 responses, of which 350 were via the online survey and one of which was submitted via email.

The majority of respondents had been personally impacted by terrorism (74%), with fewer being interested members of the public (12%) or having a professional interest in the topic (9%).

Figure 1: Respondent type

Terrorism has impacted me and/or a loved one	74%
I am an interested member of the public	12%
I have a professional interest in this topic	9%
Other	3%
Prefer not to say	1%

Q18. Which of the following is applicable to you? Based on all respondents (351)

Among those who had been personally impacted by terrorism, most were present at the scene (39%) or lost a loved one in a terror attack (25%). Comparatively fewer said they had been physically injured (15%) or had a loved one present at an attack (11%) (Figure 2). Eight in ten had been impacted by terror attacks that took place in the United Kingdom (80%) (Figure 3).

Figure 2: How respondents were impacted by terrorism (among those impacted)

I was present at the scene of a terror attack	39%
I lost a loved one in a terror attack	25%
I was physically injured by a terror attack	15%
My loved one experienced a terror attack	11%
I was first respondent to the scene of a terror attack	4%
I was held hostage in a terror attack	1%
Lost a friend / close colleague	1%
Other	9%
I fall under more than one category	6%
Prefer not to say	2%

Q20. Which of the following is applicable to you? Q21. You have indicated that you fall under more than one category. Which options are applicable to you? Based on all respondents impacted by terrorism (244)

Figure 3: Where terror attack took place (among those impacted)

United Kingdom	80%
Overseas	20%
Prefer not to say	0

Q22. Did the attack that impacted you and/or your loved one take place in the UK or overseas? Based on all respondents impacted by terrorism (244)

Overview of responses

Those responding to the consultation overwhelmingly support establishing a National Day for Victims or Survivors of Terrorism (91%), with over eight in ten who would strongly support this (84%).

National Day of Remembrance (27%) and National Day of Recognition (25%) were the two most chosen name options, and there was a preference for aligning the date with the UN International Day of Remembrance (21st August) (35%), over European Commission’s Remembrance Day (11th March)^{[footnote 1]} (25%). A small number of respondents suggested different dates, with 21st June the most popular as the longest day of the year (9%). There were mixed views on the potential location for events held on the day, with just over half feeling it should be held in a different location each year (55%), to ensure equal opportunity for access and to represent the spread of attacks across the UK, whilst fewer felt it should be held in the same location (23%). Just over half were in favour of a symbol to represent the day (52%).

There was broad consensus around what the focus of the National Day should be, respondents felt it should cover a range of themes:

• Remembering and recognising those lost and impacted by terror attacks (86%).

• Encouraging those impacted to get support if they need it (70%).

• Educating the public, both on the impacts of terrorism on victims and survivors (66%), and on the history of terror attacks in the UK and those affecting British Nationals overseas (58%).

• Amplifying victims’ and survivors’ stories (55%).

When asked about other methods of commemoration, around one in four (26%) raised the importance of having physical memorials, and one in five (18%) mentioned this when asked for any other thoughts on the topic. These included establishing sites of memorial such as monuments or fountains, but also personal memorials such as honours and medals, as well as symbolic objects such as lanyards and badges.

While the majority strongly supported a National Day there were some concerns and reservations raised by a minority. These centred on the risk of triggering painful memories or trauma among those impacted (10%), while some also raised concerns about the safety of events held, and the potential for political misuse of commemorative events (4%).

Responses to specific questions

A total of 351 responses to the consultation were received. Of these, 350 were submitted through the online survey on gov.uk and one was submitted by email.

Levels of support for a National Day

Question 1: How strongly do you support or oppose the proposal of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism?

The respondents overwhelmingly support a National Day for Victims and Survivors. Overall, nine in ten said that they supported it at all (91%), while over eight in ten strongly supported it (84%). Fewer than one in ten were in opposition (6%) (Figure 4).

Figure 4: Whether respondents support or oppose a National Day (% of all respondents)

Strongly support	84%
Somewhat support	8%
Neither support nor oppose	2%
Somewhat oppose	3%
Strongly oppose	3%
Don’t know	0

Net: Support

Q1: How strongly do you support or oppose the proposal of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism? Based on all respondents (351)

Question 2: Please explain why you feel this way (support/oppose) about the proposal for a National Day for Victim and Survivors of Terrorism

The main reasons given for supporting a National Day are set out in Figure 5. These were primarily around:

• a perceived need to raise public awareness and understanding about past terror attacks and their impacts on victims and survivors (51%).

• to support and acknowledgement for the experience of survivors (42%).

• the need for national recognition (40%).

…As a survivor of the 7/7 bombings, I believe that those who have experienced the loss and trauma caused by a terrorist attack should be supported and remembered by the country. It saddens me that the general public appear to have almost forgotten.

Physically injured in a terror attack

…A National Day will bring us together to reflect, raise awareness and support those impacted by terrorism in unity. Especially for those who have lost loved ones and have been harmed (physically or psychologically) or witnessed such traumatic attacks.

Lost a loved one in a terror attack

It is important to recognise and remember the victims, survivors and affected people from terrorism and extremism. This is what sets us apart from perpetrators.

Lost a loved one in a terror attack

Figure 5: Why respondents support a National Day for Victims and Survivors

Top reasons for supporting a National Day	Precentage
Net: Improving public awareness / education	51%
Importance of remembering victims and survivors	37%
To raise awareness / understanding	18%
Net: Supporting victims and survivors and their struggles	42%
Acknowledging victim and survivor trauma	18%
Supporting victims and survivors	15%
To help with the healing process	9%
Bringing victims, survivors, and their families together	8%
Giving victims and survivors a voice	5%
Net: Need for national recognition	40%
Wanting recognition for victims, survivors and their families	23%
Having a formal dedicated time to remember	12%
As a mark of respect to the victims and survivors	12%
Create a sense of belonging / community / unity / standing together	14%
To prevent further attacks	9%

Q2: Please explain why you feel this way (support/oppose) about the proposal for a National Day for Victim and Survivors of Terrorism. Based on all respondents who gave reasons (292).

Reasons for opposing the National Day are covered on page 26. These were mentioned only by a small minority of respondents and centred around concerns around the potential negative consequences of triggering painful memories or trauma among survivors, safety concerns and the potential for politically motivated misuse.

Other forms of recognition

Question 3: What other forms of recognition, if any, would you like to see for victims of terrorism? If so, why would you like to see this?

When asked what other forms of recognition there should be for victims and survivors of terrorism, four in ten suggested rights and support or benefits for survivors and families (40%). A significant proportion mentioned physical memorials and the need for improved mental health support for survivors (26%) (Figure 6).

Figure 6: Other forms of recognition

Other forms of recognition	Percentage
Net: Rights / support / benefits for victims, survivors and families	40%
Specific rights, protections and support	32%
Financial support / compensation fund for victims and survivors	18%
Physical memorials	26%
Net: Improved mental health support	26%
Providing mental health services / support for victims and survivors	23%
Not abandoning victims and survivors emotionally after attacks	5%
Formal remembrance day / service	12%
Educating / raising public awareness	11%
Honours / commendations for victims and survivors	7%
Location where the public can visit	5%

Q3: What other forms of recognition, if any, would you like to see for victims of terrorism? If so, why would you like to see this? Based on all respondents who answered the question (230)

A quarter suggested physical memorials (26%) as another form of recognition for victims and survivors of terrorism (Figure 6), and a further one in five raised this when asked if they had any final thoughts on the topic (18%).

Ideas for physical memorials included sites of memorial, but also a few mentioned more personal items such as honours and medals for those impacted by terror, and symbolic objects, such as badges, pins and lanyards (Figure 20).

Ideas for physical memorials included locations for people to come and visit to commemorate victims and survivors, like monuments, memorials or gardens:

Some kind of permanent memorial/monument, or fountain would be great. Preferably in one of the London Parks (similar to the Diana fountain). It would be nice to have somewhere peaceful to go to commemorate.

Present at the scene of a terror attack

I would like to see a permanent physical monument somewhere, a place where people can go to remember loved ones lost to acts of terrorism against our country.

Lost a loved one in a terror attack

Potential use of dedicated memorials (e.g. memorial gardens) where families, friends and members of the public can visit and reflect on previous losses caused by acts of terrorism.

Professional interest in the topic

Question 4: Would a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism be more or less beneficial to victims over other forms of recognition?

As laid out in Figure 7, just over half felt that a National Day would be more beneficial for victims and survivors than other forms of recognition (53%). A significant proportion did not add a specific reason for this, although around one in ten stated that it would be important as a way to remember victims and survivors (10%), and a similar proportion said that it would foster a sense of unity and support (9%). Two in ten thought that a National Day would be neither more or less beneficial than other forms of recognition (19%), while fewer felt that a National Day would be less beneficial (14%).

Figure 7: More or less beneficial and why

More or less beneficial	Percentage
Net: National Day more beneficial	53%
More beneficial (no detail given)	22%
To remember victims and survivors	10%
To foster a sense of unity / support	9%
Would increase public awareness	6%
Would bring victims and survivors together	5%
National Day neither more or less beneficial	19%
Net: National Day less beneficial	14%
Less beneficial (no detail given)	7%
Practical help / initiatives more important	6%
Triggering trauma	3%
Other	18%
No answer / not stated	5%

Q4: Would a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism be more or less beneficial to victims over other forms of recognition? Based on all respondents who answered the question (282)

What should a National Day be called?

Question 5: Out of the following options, what would you want a National Day to be called if introduced?

There was not one clear choice of name for a national day, but ‘remembrance’ and ‘recognition’ were the most chosen names, by around a quarter each. Just one in ten thought that the day should be called either ‘National Day of Memorial’, ‘National Day of Tribute’ or ‘National Day of Commemoration’ (Figure 8). Figure 9 demonstrates some of the other suggestions for names for a National Day provided by respondents.

Figure 8: What a National Day should be called (%)

National Day of Remembrance	27%
National Day of Recognition	25%
I don’t like any of these options	11%
National Day of Memorial	10%
National Day of Tribute	10%
National Day of Commemoration	9%
Doesn’t support National Day	5%
Don’t know	3%
National Day of Service	0

Q5: Out of the following options, what would you want a National Day to be called if introduced? Based on all respondents (350)

Question 6: Do you have any other suggestions for what a National Day could be called?

Figure 9: Other suggestions (open-ended) for what a National Day should be called

Other suggestions for what a National Day should be called	Number of mentions
National Day of reflection	16
National Day for terrorist victims and survivors	3
National Day of remembrance and recognition	2
National Day of recognition and remembrance for victims and survivors of terrorism	2
National day of remembrance for terrorist victims	1
National terrorism awareness day	1
National remembrance day of terrorism	1
National day of terrorism survivors	1
Always in our hearts	1
Help to cope day	1

Q6: Do you have any other suggestions for what a National Day could be called? Based on all respondents who gave another suggestion for what the national day should be called (24)

When should a National Day be commemorated?

Question 7: The Home Office is considering the following dates on which to hold a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism, if introduced. In your opinion, what date should a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terror be held on?

Respondents were shown dates the Home Office were considering for the national day. Of the two dates presented, there was a preference to align with the UN International Day of Remembrance on 21st August (35%), rather than the European Remembrance Day on 11th March (25%). One in five had no preference for the date (19%) (Figure 10).

Figure 10: Date National Day should be held on

21st August (UN International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to Victims)	35%
11th March (European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism)	25%
No preference	19%
Other	14%
Doesn’t support a National Day	5%
Don’t know	2%

Q7: The Home Office is considering the following dates on which to hold a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism, if introduced. In your opinion, what date should a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terror be held on? Based on all respondents (350).

Questions 8 and 9

• Please select what date a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism should be held on?

• Please specify why you have selected this date?

One in ten (10%) suggested another date than the two provided in the survey; these are laid out in Figure 11. While there were a range of dates chosen, the most common suggestion was for 21 June. The reason given for this tended to be that, as the longest day of the year, it was symbolic for the suffering of victims and survivors of terror. Some also noted that this date does not fall on the anniversary of a terror attack in the UK, or affect British citizens abroad, which would make it a fitting day to represent all victims and survivors.

…it is the longest day of the year representing the longest day of our lives as survivors and victims

Physically injured in a terror attack

21st June is one of very few days in the calendar that does not align with the anniversary of a major terrorist attack

Physically injured in a terror attack

However, other suggestions for dates were chosen because they do align with anniversaries of major terror attacks, for example a few suggested 22 May or 26 June to commemorate the dates of the Manchester Arena bombing and the Tunisia terror attacks.

Figure 11: Other suggestions for a date a National Day should be held

Other suggestions for a date a National Day should be held	Number of mentions
21st June	30
22nd May (Manchester Arena bombing, 2017)	7
26th June (Tunisia terror attack, 2015)	2

Q8: Please select what date a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism should be held on? Based on all respondents who suggested another date for the National Day (35)

How should a National Day be commemorated?

Question 10: If introduced, what should be the focus of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism?

Respondents felt that a National Day should focus on a range of topics. Almost all agreed it should focus on remembering and recognising those lost and impacted by terror attacks (86%). Slightly fewer, though still the majority, thought that it should have a focus on encouraging those impacted by terror attacks to get support if they need it (70%), and educating the public about the impacts on victims and survivors in the UK and overseas (66%).

Figure 12: What should be the focus for a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism?

Remembering and recognising those lost and impacted by terror attacks	86%
Encouraging those impacted by terror attacks to get support if they need it by raising awareness of the support available	70%
Educating the public about the impacts on victims and survivors in the United Kingdom and those who are British Nationals impacted by attacks overseas	66%
Educating the public about the history of terror attacks in the United Kingdom and attacks affecting British Nationals overseas	58%
Amplifying victims’ and survivors’ stories	55%
Other	4%
Doesn’t support National Day	3%

Q10: If introduced, what should be the focus of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism? Based on all respondents (351)

Question 11: If introduced, which of the following ways should a National Day be commemorated?

Respondents were asked how they felt a National Day should be commemorated. Most felt it should take the form of an annual event which would allow victims and survivors of terrorism to come together (75%). Half were in favour of a symbolic picture or object to represent it (52%), and almost one in three felt it should be commemorated by an annual theme (28%) (Figure 13).

A minority of respondents offered other suggestions for how it should be commemorated, which included community events, pin badges and bank holidays.

Figure 13: How should a National Day be commemorated?

A commemorative annual event - a yearly event allowing victims and survivors to come together	75%
A symbol - a picture or object to represent the day	52%
An annual theme - a focus for the National Day which changes every year	28%
Other	7%
Don’t know	5%
I don’t have a view because I don’t support a national day	5%

Q11: If introduced, which of the following ways should a National Day be commemorated? Based on all respondents (351)

Annual commemorative event

Question 12: Should a commemorative event be held in the same location or a different location each year?

Those who thought that a National Day should be commemorated by an annual event were most likely to think that this event should be held in a different location each year (55%), while around a quarter felt it should be held in the same location (23%) (Figure 14).

Figure 14: Should a commemorative event be held in the same location or different location each year?

Same location each year	23%
Different location each year	55%
Don’t know	9%
No preference	13%

Q12: Do you think a commemorative event should be held in the same location each year or in a different location each year? Based on all respondents who think a commemorative event should be held (261)

Question 13: Where should a commemorative event be held?

Among those who thought the commemorative event should be held in the same place each year, London was the most popular location (35%). While most did not specify which location in London should be used, there were suggestions made for Hyde Park, St Paul’s Cathedral and St James’ Park. A new dedicated memorial site, and Manchester were the next most popular locations. Other suggestions included hosting the event at a National Arboretum or gardens.

Figure 15: Should a commemorative event be held in the same location or different location?

Where the commemorative event should be held (same location each year)	Number of mentions
NET: London	18%
London (unspecified location)	13%
Hyde Park	3%
St Paul’s Cathedral	1%
St James’ Park	1%
A dedicated site / space built for a memorial	15%
Manchester	13%
National Arboretum / gardens	3%
Birmingham	2%
Belfast	1%
Cardiff	1%
Edinburgh	1%
Liverpool	1%
York	1%

Q13: Which location do you believe a commemorative event should be held in each year? Based on all respondents who think a commemorative event should be held in the same location each year (40)

Question 14: You indicated that a commemorative event should be held in a different location each year. Please explain why you selected this, including any locations you think should be considered

The two main reasons for wanting the commemorative event to be held in a different location each year were for accessibility (59%) and recognising a spread of locations (59%). As laid out in Figure 15, accessibility concerns were predominantly around making the event fair for people to attend across the UK (44%), and the idea that changing the location each year would give more people a chance to attend (26%).

Recognising a spread of locations was seen as important to recognise that there are survivors of terror attacks based all over the UK (29%), and that the locations of the event should recognise locations where attacks have happened (23%). Almost a fifth said that the location should be different each year to avoid placing too much emphasis on London or other big cities (18%).

Figure 16: Why a commemorative event should be held in a different location each year

Why a commemorative event should be held in a different location each year	Percentage
NET: Accessibility	59%
More accessible / fair for people across the UK	44%
Gives more people a chance to attend	26%
Should be held in all major cities	8%
Net: Recognition of spread of locations	59%
Recognise that there are victims and survivors of terror attacks based all over the UK	29%
Recognise locations where attacks have happened	23%
Avoid over emphasis on London / big cities	18%
Avoid over emphasis on specific terror attacks	2%
Awareness / support for victims, survivors and families UK-wide	5%
Multiple events / locations on the same day	3%
Concerns around safety / being target for future attacks	2%
Location should rotate each year	2%
Other	16%

Q14: You indicated that a commemorative event should be held in a different location each year. Please explain why selected this, including any locations you think should be considered. Based on all respondents who think a commemorative event should be held in a different location each year (133)

Ideas for a National Day

Question 15: We would like to know more about your ideas for a National Day. If you have any thoughts please share them

Respondents were asked what other ideas they had for a National Day, which are laid out in Figure 17 below. A third reiterated the need for a National Day to provide an opportunity to bring victims and survivors of terror attacks together (32%). A quarter emphasised the need for it to educate and raise awareness of the impact of terror attacks (25%), and a similar proportion offered suggestions for the types of events and activities that should be held (24%). These included ceremonies and services (9%) and fundraising and charity events (6%).

Figure 17: More ideas for a National Day

More ideas for a national day	Percentage
NET: Bringing victims and survivors together	32%
Opportunity for victims / survivors / families to take part / share stories	27%
Safe space for victims and survivors	3%
Emphasis on understanding/tolerance	3%
Net: Education	25%
Educate / raise public awareness on past attacks and impact	22%
Education in schools	4%
Net: Type of events / activities	24%
Ceremonies / services	9%
Fundraising / charity events to support victims and survivors	6%
Concerts	3%
Community led events	3%
Other types of events / activities	11%
Net: Should have positive focus / overcoming adversity	18%
Highlighting the security / emergency services	14%
Celebration / overcoming adversity	4%
National moment of silence and reflection	18%
Need to focus on victims and survivors	18%
Be government supported	16%
Togetherness / to bring everyone together	7%
Not be dominated by politics	4%
Specific symbol or colour	4%

Q15: We would like to know more about your ideas for a National Day. If you have any thoughts, please share them. Based on all respondents who shared ideas (102)

Outcomes of a National Day

Question 16: What outcomes, if any, do you think could result from a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism? These could be positive or negative, expected or unexpected

When asked what the possible outcomes of a National Day might be, almost all respondents suggested positive outcomes (87%). There were a range suggested, but these were primarily around having the opportunity to recognise and remember victims and survivors (33%), educating and raising public awareness (30%) and fostering a sense of unity and support (25%).

I think there would be a really, really positive outcome, I think people need to hear our story’s & I think it would help a lot of survivors like myself to be recognised for what we went through & how we’re trying to just carry on day to day with that constantly in our minds.

Present at the scene of a terror attack

Celebrate victims and make sure their stories are not forgotten

Loved one experienced a terror attack

I think this will be a positive day, will raise awareness and educate and ultimately will provide great comfort for those who have lost loved ones to terrorism who currently don’t feel like their loved ones receive the recognition they deserve.

Lost a loved one in a terror attack

Figure 18: Possible outcomes of a National Day

Outcomes of a national day	Percentage
NET: Positive possible outcomes	87%
Remembering victims and survivors	33%
Educating / raising public awareness	30%
Foster a sense of unity and support	25%
Opportunity for victims and survivors to share stories / be heard / be seen	21%
Bringing victims and survivors / families together	20%
Providing comfort / support for those affected	19%
A focus on the impact on the victims / survivors / their family / friends / communities	15%
Being more vigilant	7%
Prevent further attacks	6%
Focus on the impact of terrorism	3%
Focus on peace	3%
Raises the profile of volunteers / charities / counterterrorism / emergency services	2%
Positive other mentions	20%

Q16: What outcomes, if any, do you think could result from a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism? These could be positive or negative, expected or unexpected. Based on all respondents (219)

Concerns about a National Day

While most are in favour of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism, some did not support it (6%) and there was some concern expressed about potential negative impacts, even among those in favour.

One in ten said that they would have concerns about possible negative consequences of a National Day (10%). These included the potential for triggering painful memories for victims and survivors, that it might isolate or marginalise particular groups or draw too much attention to terrorism, and concern about politically motivated misuse. Some also suggested that a National Day is not needed as it would not have much meaning.

…it may also be unnecessarily triggering for survivors / people affected, and I’m not convinced that the general public would pay great attention to this day.

Present at the scene of a terror attack

Due to the blurry and highly contextual definition of terrorism, this national day risks excluding victims of terrorist acts that have not been named or presented as such in the media

Lost loved ones in a terror attack

…the distinction between terrorism and other forms of violence, including war and civil conflict, is often politically determined and can be seen to be inconsistently applied.

Interested member of the public

I feel that the money and effort would be better spent elsewhere. I personally only have an attachment to the day that Terrorism affected me and can’t imagine having any meaningful attachment, interaction or engagement with a National Day.

Physically injured in terror attack

Figure 19: Possible negative outcomes of a National Day

Outcomes of a national day	Percentage
NET: Negative possible outcomes	25%
Triggering painful memories / trauma for victims and survivors	10%
Concerns around safety / being the target for future attacks	4%
Concerns about politically motivated misuse	4%
Inciting racial tension	2%
Negative outcomes - other mentions	10%

Q16: What outcomes, if any, do you think could result from a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism? These could be positive or negative, expected or unexpected. Based on all respondents (219)

Additional comments

Question 17: Is there anything else you would like to add on the topic of recognition for victims and survivors of terrorism?

Respondents were given the opportunity to share any additional comments about the National Day via a final open response question. Those who did most commonly emphasised the need for support for victims, survivors and their families (32%). A significant proportion also mentioned physical memorials (18%) and the need to promote awareness and integration of diverse communities (18%) (Figure 20).

Figure 20: Additional comments about a National Day

More ideas for a national day	Percentage
NET: Support for victims and survivors / families	32%
Recognise that support for support for victims and survivors is needed	2%1
Mental health support	10%
Public will never forget (victims/ survivors/ families of victims)	4%
Net: Physical memorials	18%
Honours / medals	7%
Personal memorials	5%
Site for people to visit	4%
Objects i.e pins / lanyards / badges	4%
Promoting awareness and integration of diverse, ethnic and religious communities	18%
Focus on peace	5%
National moment of silence and reflection	18%
Need to focus on survivors / victims	18%
Be government supported	16%
Togetherness / to bring everyone together	7%
Not be dominated by politics	4%
Specific symbol or colour	4%

Q17: Is there anything else you would like to add on the topic of recognition for victims and survivors of terrorism?

Question 18: Which of the following is applicable to you?

Respondents were asked to select from a number of options to indicate their interest in the consultation. This included: ‘terrorism has impacted me and/or a loved one,’ ‘I am an interested member of the public,’ ‘I have a professional interest in this topic,’ ‘other’ and ‘prefer not to say.

Question 19: Please tell us how you would like to proceed

In consideration of the sensitive and potentially triggering nature of questions 20 – 22, respondents were asked to indicate whether they would like to proceed to the below questions or complete the survey.

Questions 20 to 22

• Which of the following is applicable to you?
• You have indicated that you fall under more than one category. Which options are applicable to you? *Did the attack that impacted you and/or a loved one take place in the UK or overseas? Respondents who had been impacted by terrorism or their loved ones had been impacted were asked further questions (questions 20 – 22) about how they were affected and where the attack happened from a number of options. This information is contained in this report at page 7-8.

Question 23

Respondents who had been directly impacted by terrorism were asked what they thought the most appropriate term for someone affected by terrorism is. ‘Victim and Survivor’ were considered the most appropriate terms, with almost four in ten choosing this (39%) (Figure 21).

Figure 21: Most appropriate term for someone affected by terrorism

Victim and survivor	39%
Person affected or impacted by terrorism	26%
Survivor	21%
Victim	7%
Other	5%

Q23: You have indicated that terrorism has impacted you and/or a loved one. Do you have a view on the most appropriate term for someone affected by terrorism? Based on all respondents who have been impacted by terrorism (243)

Conclusion and next steps

The responses to this consultation demonstrate strong support for establishing a national day to better support and recognise victims and survivors of terrorism. We are therefore committed to introducing a National Day that aligns with the wishes and priorities shared by consultation respondents.

This includes several measures to shape the national day:

• Date: A National Day will be observed annually on 21 August – as the most chosen date among respondents.

• Name: We recognise the names a ‘National Day of Remembrance’ and ‘National Day of Recognition’ emerged as the most selected options among respondents, but that there was no overwhelming level of support for a particular name. We will further consider responses to the consultation as we plan the first national day, and engage with victims and survivors on the options, before conclusively deciding on an official name.

• Commemorative Event: An annual commemorative event will be held in rotating locations each year to ensure stronger inclusivity and impact, in acknowledgement that terrorism has impacted places and people across the UK. We recognise victims and survivors have different views on where the event should take place, and some have provided suggestions in response to this consultation paper. We will consider responses as we plan the first national day and for future years.

• Symbol: A dedicated symbol should be designed to represent the day and we will consult with victims and survivors on the options.

We are working towards delivering the first National Day by 21 August 2026. Plans will be developed in close consultation with victims and survivors to ensure the day is meaningful and inclusive.

Respondents also highlighted key themes that should shape the focus of a national day. These will be embedded into the future activities of a national day:

• Remembering and recognising those lost and impacted by terror attacks.

• Encouraging those impacted by terror attacks to get support if they need it by raising awareness of the support available.

• Educating the public about the impacts on victims and survivors in the United Kingdom and those who are British Nationals impacted by attacks overseas

• Educating the public about the history of terror attacks in the United Kingdom and attacks affecting British Nationals overseas.

• Amplifying victims’ and survivors’ stories.

Throughout the consultation, respondents raised a number of broader issues that fall outside the scope of this policy proposal. This includes:

• Specific rights, protections and support.

• Financial support.

• Mental health support services.

While these fall outside the scope of this consultation, we are grateful to respondents for raising these points. Work is already underway to develop a new dedicated support hub for victims and survivors of terrorism, which will help address some of these needs through tailored, long-term support.

We acknowledge a small number of respondents raised other forms of recognition and memorialisation in their response, such as physical memorials. We will continue to explore these suggestions with victims and survivors, alongside our work on plans for national day.

We remain committed to ensuring that victims and survivors are appropriately remembered, recognised and supported. As we move forward, we will continue to engage with victims and survivors to ensure needs and voices are heard and provide public updates as this work progresses.

Impact Assessment, Equalities, and Welsh Language

Equalities

The Public sector Equality Duty came in to force in April 2011 and public authorities including Home Office are now required to have due regard to the need to achieve the objectives set out under s149 of the Equality Act 2010 to:

(a) eliminating discrimination, harassment, victimisation and any other conduct that is prohibited by or under the Equality Act 2010;

(b) advancing equality of opportunity between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it;

(c) fostering good relations between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it.

The proportionate Equality Analysis that accompanied the consultation should now be updated in light of the consultation responses to consider likely impacts on people with protected characteristics: disability, race, sex, gender reassignment, age, religion or belief, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership.

Any new points raised in relation to equalities impacts from the policy proposals should be proportionately responded to. Any new evidence supplied should also be considered to be sure the policy intentions are likely to still be achieved for people with protected characteristics. If there are mitigations suggested by consultees these should also be considered.

More information on the PSED can be found here.

Consultation principles

The principles that government departments and other public bodies should adopt for engaging stakeholders when developing policy and legislation are set out in the Cabinet Office Consultation Principles 2018.

Annex A: Consultation questions

Consultation questions

The Home Office is considering whether the UK should introduce a National Day for Victims and Survivors or Terrorism.

A National Day would pay tribute to anyone impacted by terrorism in the United Kingdom and British Nationals affected by terrorist attacks overseas. Victims and survivors are anyone who has suffered physical, mental and emotional harm because of a terrorist attack. This includes those sadly lost, bereaved, held hostage, and injured in terrorist attacks, as well as witnesses and first responders to the scene of the attack.

Q1. How strongly do you support or oppose the proposal of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism as described above?

Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to Q2.

1. Strongly support
2. Somewhat support
3. Neither support nor oppose
4. Somewhat oppose
5. Strongly oppose
6. Don’t know

Q2. Please explain why you feel this way about the proposal for a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism.

We have provided this box for you to share your thoughts. If you don’t have anything to add, please skip to the next question.

Please be advised your response can be no longer than 2000 words.

Q3. What other forms of recognition, if any, would you like to see for victims of terrorism? If so, why would you like to see this? Please share your thoughts in the box below and then go to Q4

Please be advised your response can be no longer than 2000 words.

Q4. Would a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism be more or less beneficial to victims over other forms of recognition? Please share your thoughts in the box below and then go to Q5.

Please be advised your response can be no longer than 2000 words.

The next set of questions will ask for your views on how a national day could be commemorated if one was introduced.

Q5. Out of the following options, what would you want a National Day to be called if introduced? Please select your favourite option.

Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to the specified question.

1. National Day of Remembrance: Go to Q7.
2. National Day of Recognition: Go to Q7.
3. National Day of Tribute: Go to Q7.
4. National Day of Service: Go to Q7.
5. National Day of Memorial: Go to Q7.
6. National Day of Commemoration: Go to Q7.
7. Don’t know: Go to Q7.
8. I don’t like any of these options: Go to Q6.
9. I don’t have a view because I don’t support a National Day: Go to Q7.

Q6. Do you have any other suggestions for what a National Day could be called? If you have no suggestions, please leave the box blank and skip to Q7.

Q7. The Home Office is considering the following dates on which to hold a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism, if introduced. In your opinion, what date should a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism be held on?

Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to the specified question.

1. 21st August (this date is marked by the United Nations as an International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism): Go to Q10
2. 11th March (this date is marked by the European Commission as the European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism): Go to Q10
3. No preference: Go to Q10
4. Don’t know: Go to Q10
5. Other: Go to Q8
6. I don’t have a view because I don’t support a National Day: Go to Q10

Q8. Please select what date a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism should be held on?

Please specify this in DD/MM format in the box below and then go to Q9.

Q9. Please specify why you have selected this date?

Please specify in the box below and then go to Q10.

Q10. If introduced, what should be the focus of a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism? Please cross or highlight all that apply and then go to Q11.

1. Remembering and recognising those lost and impacted by terror attacks
2. Amplifying victims’ and survivors’ stories.
3. Educating the public about the history of terror attacks in the United Kingdom and attacks affecting British Nationals overseas
4. Educating the public about the impacts on victims and survivors in the United Kingdom and those who are British Nationals impacted by attacks overseas.
5. Encouraging those impacted by terror attacks to get support if they need it by raising awareness of the support available
6. Don’t know
7. I don’t have a view because I don’t support a National Day
8. Other: Please specify in the box below

Q11. If introduced, which of the following ways should a National Day be commemorated?

Please cross or highlight all that apply and then go to the specified question.

1. A symbol - a picture or object to represent the National Day: Go to Q15
2. An annual theme - a focus for the National Day which changes each year: Go to Q15
3. A commemorative annual event - a yearly event allowing victims and survivors to come together in recognition of the National Day: Go to Q12.
4. Don’t know: Go to Q15
5. I don’t have a view because I don’t support a National Day: Go to Q15
6. Other (please specify): Please specify in the box below then go to Q15

Q12. Do you think a commemorative event should be held in the same location each year or in a different location each year?

Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to the specified question.

1. Same location each year: Go to Q13
2. Different location each year: Go to Q14
3. Don’t know: Go to Q15
4. No preference: Go to Q15

Q13. Which location do you believe a commemorative event should be held in each year?

We have provided the box below for you to share your thoughts. If you don’t have anything to add, please skip to Q15.

Q14. You have indicated that a commemorative event should be held in a different location each year.

Please explain why you selected this, including any locations you think should be considered.

We have provided the box below for you to share your thoughts. If you don’t have anything to add, please skip to Q15.

Q15. We would like to know more about your ideas for a National Day. If you have any thoughts, please share them in the box below. If you don’t have anything to add, please go to Q16.

Please be advised your response can be no longer than 2000 words.

Q16. What outcomes, if any, do you think could result from a National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism? These could be positive or negative, expected or unexpected. Please share your thoughts in the box below.

If you don’t have anything to add, please go to Q17.

Please be advised your response can be no longer than 2000 words.

Q17. Is there anything else you would like to add on the topic of recognition for victims and survivors of terrorism? Please share your thoughts in the box below.

If you don’t have anything to add, please go to the next information box.

Please be advised your response can be no longer than 2000 words.

The following question will ask about your interest in this consultation.

Please be assured your response will remain confidential.

If you would prefer not to answer this question, please select ‘prefer not to say’.

Q18. Which of the following is applicable to you?

Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to the specified question.

1. Terrorism has impacted me and/or a loved one: Please read the next information box and go to Q19.
2. I am an interested member of the public: Go to the end of the survey.
3. I have a professional interest in this topic: Go to the end of the survey.
4. Prefer not to say: Go to the end of the survey.
5. Other: Please specify in the box below ?and go to the end of the survey.

The purpose of this survey is not to ask about your personal circumstances, but the next few questions will ask for some details for analytical purposes.

The following questions will ask about how you were impacted by a terror attack. Please be assured your response will remain confidential. We understand it can be difficult to be reminded of the attack which impacted you and you may wish to skip them. When you get to the questions, there will be an option to select ‘prefer not to say’ for any that you would prefer not to provide a response for.

Q19. Please tell us how you would like to proceed. Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to the specified question.

1. Yes, I am happy to proceed to these questions: Go to Q20
2. No, I would not like to answer these questions: Please go to the end of the survey.

The purpose of this survey is not to ask about your personal circumstances, but the next few questions will ask for some details for analytical purposes. The following question will ask about how you were impacted by a terror attack.

Please be assured your response will remain confidential.

If you would prefer not to answer this question, please select ‘prefer not to say’.

Q20. Which of the following is applicable to you? Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to the specified question.

1. I lost a loved one in a terror attack: Go to Q22
2. I was physically injured by a terror attack: Go to Q22
3. I was present at the scene of a terror attack: Go to Q22
4. I was held hostage in a terror attack: Go to Q22
5. My loved one experienced a terror attack: Go to Q22
6. I was a first respondent to the scene of a terror attack: Go to Q22
7. Prefer not to say: Go to Q22
8. I fall under more than one category: Go to Q21
9. Other: Please specify in the box below and go to Q22

Q21. You have indicated that you fall under more than one category. Which options are applicable to you?

Please cross or highlight all that apply and then go to Q22.

Please be assured your response will remain confidential.

If you would prefer not to answer this question, please select ‘prefer not to say’.

1. I lost a loved one in a terror attack
2. I was physically injured by a terror attack
3. I was present at the scene of a terror attack
4. I was held hostage in a terror attack
5. My loved one experienced a terror attack
6. I was a first respondent to the scene of a terror attack
7. Prefer not to say
8. Other: Please specify in the box below

Q22. Did the attack that impacted you and/or a loved one take place in the UK or overseas?

Please be assured your response will remain confidential.

Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to Q23.

If you would prefer not to answer this question, please select ‘prefer not to say’.

1. United Kingdom
2. Overseas
3. Prefer not to say

Q23. You have indicated that terrorism has impacted you and/or a loved one. Do you have a view on the most appropriate term for someone affected by terrorism?

Please cross or highlight one box only and then go to the end of the survey.

1. Victim
2. Survivor
3. Victim and survivor
4. Person affected or impacted by terrorism
5. Don’t know
6. Other: Please specify in the box below

1. The United Nations observe an International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism on 21 August each year, and the European Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism is observed by the European Commission on 11 March each year. ↩