Luke Myer MP has welcomed today’s announcement that the Government will establish a new annual National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism, with the inaugural commemoration to be held on 21 August 2026.
The move follows years of campaigning by victims, survivors, and parliamentary supporters – including Luke – who have consistently called for stronger recognition of those affected by terror attacks and for improved long-term support.
Luke, a member of the APPG on Terrorism and Security, has been a prominent voice in Parliament pressing for better care for victims, full transparency around government reviews, and the creation of national structures that honour and support survivors. He has worked closely with leading campaigners, including Travis Frain OBE, and has repeatedly urged ministers to act on gaps in psychological, legal, and financial support.
The National Day—aligned with the UN International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism—will rotate across different parts of the United Kingdom each year. It will serve four key purposes:
- Honouring and remembering those who have been killed or injured in terrorist attacks
- Raising awareness of the lifelong impact of terrorism
- Encouraging victims and survivors to access specialist, trauma-informed support
- Educating the public and amplifying the voices of survivors
Security Minister Dan Jarvis said the day will honour “the horrific experiences victims have endured” and ensure they “have our unwavering support”.
Campaigner Travis Frain OBE, who has worked closely with Luke, described the announcement as “immensely important” and thanked all those who have supported the campaign. Families affected by the Manchester Arena attack and the Brighton bombing also welcomed the news as a long-overdue recognition of profound national loss and survivor resilience.
The establishment of the National Day forms part of a wider package of reforms Luke has championed, including the Government’s new 24/7 dedicated support hub for victims and survivors of terrorism, due to be operational by next summer.
Luke Myer MP said:
“This is a deeply important moment for victims and survivors, many of whom have campaigned for years to be recognised, remembered, and supported properly. I pay tribute to their courage and determination.
This must be the beginning, not the end, of our work. We now need to ensure the new support hub is delivered, that services are properly funded, and that victims and survivors continue to have a voice at the heart of government.
Terrorism seeks to divide and weaken us, but this day will help us come together as a country – to remember, to honour, and to stand with all those whose lives have been changed forever.”
The Government will now work with survivors, families, and support organisations to finalise the format, name, and symbol of the new National Day ahead of the first commemoration in August 2026.