Doncaster Businesses Get Free Cybersecurity Protection Against Rising Threats

Cyber attacks are no longer a distant concern for Doncaster's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With phishing emails, keylogger viruses, spoof websites and exploits via removable storage devices among the most common threats, the City of Doncaster Council is urging businesses and residents to take action. A suite of recently launched initiatives, including a fully funded local programme and a heavily subsidised certification, aims to plug the skills gap without breaking the bank.

New Programme Targets Local SMEs

In April 2025, Doncaster launched the 'Doncaster Cyber Readiness Programme', a fully funded initiative delivered by Holistic IT. The programme is designed to help local SMEs improve their cyber security posture in line with Cyber Essentials standards, the government-backed certification that covers basic technical controls. The scheme is open to businesses across the borough and is one of several measures intended to raise the baseline of digital defence among smaller firms that often lack dedicated IT security staff.

£50 Certification for South Yorkshire Businesses

For SMEs across South Yorkshire, the barrier to entry has been dramatically lowered. Through funding from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), businesses can access a funded Cybersecurity Awareness Certification for just £50, down from the normal price of £1,000. Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application is advised. The certification covers the fundamentals of threat identification, password hygiene and incident response, giving staff the knowledge to spot dangers before they escalate.

Healthcare Workers Get Specialised Training

Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals have also stepped up their defences. In 2025, the trust partnered with EC-Council, a global leader in cyber security certification, to provide up-to-date training for employees. The programme is specifically designed to raise awareness of threats to critical national infrastructure in the healthcare sector, a high-value target for attackers where a breach can disrupt patient care and compromise sensitive data. The partnership reflects a growing recognition that frontline NHS staff need the same cyber awareness skills as their IT colleagues.

Free National Resources Available Now

Beyond formal programmes, the council promotes two free national resources that any resident or business can use today. 'Cyber Aware' (a government site) offers simple guidance on protecting devices, using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication. 'Get Safe Online' provides practical advice on securing home networks, shopping safely and spotting scams. The council recommends that everyone, from sole traders to large employers, makes a habit of updating software regularly and backing up data, two low-cost actions that can prevent catastrophic losses.

For Doncaster businesses, the message is clear: cyber threats are not going away, but the tools to defend against them are more accessible than ever. Whether through the fully funded readiness programme, the discounted certification for South Yorkshire SMEs, or the free government resources, there is no excuse to leave the front door unlocked.