.GOV.UK Domains

Guidance and Information

 
 

.GOV.UK Domains Explained

A domain is a website and email address that helps your community identify your council. The Parish Council Domains Helper Service has released a short video explaining .gov.uk domains which are only available to government departments and agencies; registration is strictly controlled and can help provide assurance that your council is an official layer of local government. Parish Councils Domains Helper Service has shared this short explainer video, and NALC hosted an information event on the importance of councils moving to a .gov.uk domain, which you can watch via the link below.

Watch the NALC event here

Transitioning to a .gov.uk domain offers parish and town councils enhanced credibility, security and compliance with digital governance standards. This move is supported by the Parish Council Domains Helper Service, which provides comprehensive guidance and assistance throughout the process.

Read this self-help guidance first

Why choose a .gov.uk domain?

A .gov.uk domain signifies an official government entity, fostering trust among residents and stakeholders. Key benefits include:

  • Enhanced Trust and Credibility: The .gov.uk suffix assures users of the website's official status, reinforcing the legitimacy of the council's communications and services.

  • Improved Security: Government domains are subject to stringent security protocols, reducing the risk of cyber threats and ensuring the protection of sensitive information.

  • Compliance with Legal Obligations: Using a .gov.uk domain aids in meeting GDPR requirements and simplifies the management of Freedom of Information and Subject Access requests.

  • Professional Email Management: Role-based email addresses (e.g. clerk@yourparishcouncil.gov.uk) facilitate better administrative control, especially during staff transitions.

  • Access to Government Services: Councils gain access to various government tools and services designed to enhance online security and functionality.

What does the legislation say?

Parish and town councils are strongly advised by national bodies such as NALC, SLCC, and JPAG to adopt a .gov.uk domain as best practice. This advice is rooted in the need to improve security, ensure continuity of communication, support accessibility, and reinforce public trust in council communications.

Using a .gov.uk domain helps councils:

  • Meet expectations under the Transparency Code for Smaller Authorities

  • Manage Freedom of Information and Subject Access Requests more efficiently

  • Comply with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018

  • Align with website accessibility regulations under WCAG 2.2 AA

While there is no single piece of legislation that mandates the use of a .gov.uk domain, councils are legally required to demonstrate good governance, data protection, and public transparency. The use of a secure, role-based .gov.uk domain helps deliver on all of these requirements and reflects a modern, professional council. 

Services and support

Parish Council Domains Helper Service

Established by the Cabinet Office, the Parish Council Domains Helper Service provides essential support for councils making the switch to a .gov.uk domain. The service offers:

  • Step-by-step guidance on how to register and set up a .gov.uk domain.

  • Technical support for domain configuration, email setup, hosting, and accessibility compliance.

  • A list of approved registrars with experience working with local councils.

  • Help navigating GDPR, FOI, and subject access compliance issues more easily through the use of role-based .gov.uk emails.

  • An improved framework for email continuity and document control, especially during staff turnover.

While the initial £100 + VAT funding to support new domain setup has now been fully allocated, the Helper Service remains a key contact point for advice and coordination.

The 2025 Practitioners’ Guide further clarifies expectations on digital and data compliance. Section 10 covers digital working practices, while Section 5 offers updated advice on .gov.uk email use and the need for a council-owned IT policy.

 Your Next Steps to Transition to a .gov.uk Domain

  • Council Approval: Obtain agreement from your council to proceed with acquiring a .gov.uk domain.

  • Contact the Helper Service: Reach out to the Parish Council Domains Helper Service to express interest and receive guidance.

  • Choose an Approved Registrar: Select a registrar from the provided list to assist with domain registration and setup.

  • Set Up Domain and Services: Work with your registrar to configure your website, email accounts, and ensure compliance with necessary standards.

  • Maintain and Monitor: Regularly update your website and email services to maintain security and compliance.

Moving Your Parish Council to a GOV.UK Domain

Special Offer from Parish Online

Parish Online is launching a new initiative called 'Core', a free version of its GOV.UK email service aimed at helping smaller councils take their first step toward digital compliance—especially those struggling with cost or change-resistant councillors.

What the Core offer includes:

  • A free .gov.uk domain name

  • 1x 5GB mailbox for the clerk (with calendar and To-Do list functionality)

  • Seamless upgrade paths with retained discounts (£100 off the first year of a full package for councils switching from a non-gov.uk domain)

  • Guaranteed availability with a rolling five-year promise—no hidden fees or surprise changes

  • Designed for high social value, the service is offered by a not-for-profit Community Interest Company

  • Parish Online also plans to expand the Core package to include:

  • Free access to mapping software (automatically licensed for Ordnance Survey data when using a .gov.uk email)

  • Future potential website services as part of the free offering

This offer is part of a coordinated trial with GAPTC and NCALC and is ideal for smaller councils who want to improve their digital presence but need a no-cost entry point.

Click here to express an interest or book an information session