Government responds to PRCA letter on funding for media and communications education

In June 2025, the PRCA Interim CEO, Sarah Waddington CBE, wrote to the Secretary of State for Education to raise concerns about cuts to funding for communications and media-related higher education courses.

We have now received a formal response from the Rt Hon Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills. While the government acknowledges the value of subjects like journalism and media studies, it has reiterated its decision to prioritise funding for science and technology disciplines under current fiscal pressures.

We are sharing the Minister’s response in full below to support transparency and ongoing engagement on this important issue for our industry.

prca.global/sites/default/files/2025-0020982%20-%20Sarah%20Waddington%20-%20Signed%20Response.pdf

 

Website preview
Letter to Secretary of State for Education - June 2025
PRCA Interim CEO, Sarah Waddington CBE, has written to The Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, to express the Public Relations and Communications Association’s (PRCA) deep concern over the Department for Education’s decision to deprioritise funding for university courses in media studies, journalism, publishing, and information services.
prca-uk.prezly.com

 

Share

Latest stories

Website preview
PRCA Statement on the Bondi Beach Terror Attack
We are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic events that took place at Bondi Beach over the weekend.
prca-uk.prezly.com
Website preview
Jennifer Evans Appointed Co-Chair of the PRCA Health Group
The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) today announced the appointment of Jennifer Evans, Associate Director at Luther Pendragon, as Co-Chair of the PRCA Health Group, joining current Co-Chair Darren Foan.
prca-uk.prezly.com
Website preview
PRCA Welcomes 11 New Fellows
The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) today announced the induction of 11 new Fellows, celebrated for their exceptional contributions to the global public relations industry.
prca-uk.prezly.com

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

About PRCA UK

The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) is the world's leading professional body for professionals in public relations, communications, and public affairs. Through our global community, we work towards an industry that is known worldwide for its innovation, excellence and ethical standards. 

Established in London in 1969, the PRCA empowers its members by delivering valuable industry insights, fostering knowledge exchange, and offering opportunities to connect with peers. The PRCA is the industry's voice, ensuring government, policymakers and business leaders recognise PR and public affairs’ vital social and economic impact. We also provide world-class training and actively advocate for the interests of the profession on a broader scale.

PRCA, along with our members, are bound by our Codes of Conduct. 

Read the PRCA mission, vision, values and strategic goals.

 

PRCA UK | PRCA APAC | PRCA MENA | PRCA Americas | PRCA Africa

Contact

7-8 Stratford Place W1C 1AY London United Kingdom

+4420 7233 6026

communications@prca.global

www.prca.global