On 24th September 2025, the Centre for Whole of Society Resilience (CWSR) and the Institute for Strategic Risk Management (ISRM), in partnership with PA Consulting, hosted the annual Whole of Society Resilience Conference in London. The event brought together leaders from government, business, academia and civil society to explore systemic approaches to resilience, share insights and define practical actions for the future.
The opening session set a strong tone for the day, with Rosehanna Chowdhury F.ISRM delivering her debut speech as CEO of the UK Resilience Academy. Her remarks highlighted the importance of fresh leadership and a whole-of-society approach at a critical juncture for UK resilience.
Throughout the day, discussions emphasised that resilience is not only a preventative measure that reduces loss and damage, but also a positive enabler of sustainable growth when its value is clearly articulated. Speakers underscored the importance of combining risk-based and impact-based approaches in a world where crises often defy forecasts, and of recognising that resilience extends beyond individual organisations to include customers, suppliers, communities and wider market forces. A recurring theme was that resilience and ego are incompatible, and that openness, adaptability and a willingness to accept uncertainty are vital qualities for withstanding shocks and stressors.
The programme also featured a session with the Women in Resilience network, who came together to set their mission and activities for the year ahead. Their focus will be on empowering young women, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, through mentoring, leadership and resilience-building initiatives.
This year’s conference took place at a pivotal moment for the UK’s resilience journey. Recent developments—including the launch of the UK Resilience Academy, updates to the 2022 National Resilience Framework, the forthcoming 2025 National Risk Register and recommendations from the Covid-19 inquiry – underline the urgent need for a comprehensive national resilience strategy.
This event has proven to be a vital platform for connecting people, sharing expertise and reinforcing a collective commitment to building resilience across sectors and communities.
