The UK government has established the UK Cyber Security Council, an independent organisation aimed at addressing the skills gap and providing a governing voice for the cybersecurity industry.

The government said the body will be responsible for making sure there are enough skilled workers in the cyber security field, that they have the necessary training and experience, and that there is sufficient diversity in the workforce.

The UK Cyber Security Council will be funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), and will collaborate closely with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

The Council will start work on 31 March, and founding members include The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS), CompTIA, Crest, the IET, ISC² and TechUK.

Claudia Natanson, former CSO at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will be the first chair.

Matt Warman, digital minister, said: “The fact we are launching an independent professional body for cyber security shows just how vital this area has become – it makes a huge contribution to our thriving digital economy by safeguarding our critical national infrastructure, commerce and other online spaces,”

He added: “The UK Cyber Security Council will ensure anyone interested in an exciting career tackling online threats has access to world-class training and guidance. It will also champion diversity and inclusion, driving up standards while helping the nation to build back better and safer.”

Chris Ensor, the NCSC’s deputy director for cyber growth, said: “Cyber security is a growing industry in the UK and it’s vital for high standards of practice and technical expertise to be at the heart of the profession as it develops.”

He added: “We look forward to working with the Council to help ensure that future generations of cyber security professionals have the skills and support they need to thrive and make the UK the safest place to live and work online”

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