Search all content on GOV.UK

Employment reforms will help 'solve UK's Productivity Puzzle', Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders set out to global leaders in Geneva today.

• Updated: 11 June 2025

• Updated: 26 July 2023

A patent registers your invention and lets you take legal action against anyone who makes, uses, sells or imports your invention without your permission.

• Overview

  A UK patent may help if you want to take legal action against someone who…

• Before you apply

  Only apply for a patent if: you’ve checked your invention does not already…

• Decide which type of application to file

  There are different applications you can make depending on: your…

• Prepare your documents

  A patent application must include: a description of your invention that…

• File your initial application

  Before you file your application, make sure that you’ve: decided on what…

• After you apply

  Once you’ve filed an application you’ll get a receipt with your…

• Search, publication and examination

  Before your patent can be granted the Intellectual Property Office (IPO)…

• When a patent is granted

  If your patent is granted: your application will be published in its final…

Stoke Heath’s family strategy outlines how we support prisoners in our care to develop meaningful and constructive relationships with their family or significant others.

• Updated: 28 January 2026

• Updated: 10 September 2021

Get help to classify various toys and games for import and export.

• Updated: 13 March 2026

• Updated: 8 March 2023

Bristol Prison is a men’s prison in the Horfield area of Bristol.

• Updated: 2 December 2025

• Updated: 9 July 2025

Find out when you can zero rate books and other forms of printed matter.

• Updated: 31 July 2020