Science for everyone – Breaking down barriers and opening pathways to opportunity

This document highlights the value and impact of the UK's science and discovery centres, looking back at the development of the Millennium centres, up to the present day. Since 2000, this network of organisations has inspired and engaged over 110 million young people and adults, making a positive contribution to the UK’s understanding of STEM topics.

These science and discovery centres have become trusted anchor institutions in their local communities, recognised as local hubs of STEM expertise working closely with local schools, academic, business and industry partners to engage all ages with science and technology.

These organisations and the science communicators and educators working with the public help to break down barriers and empower communities and individuals to understand and engage with big national challenges, including clean energy transition, environmental goals and the net zero transition, the tech revolution, the fundamental impact of AI and our ageing society.