We were commissioned to review and enhance security at one of the largest publicly accessible arts and entertainment venues in Europe, including preparing for the onset of the “protect duty”.  Taking a risk based approach, we fully reviewed existing provision and conducted a full vulnerability assessment.

Our recommendations, which were fully adopted by the venue, were based around making users of the venue feel that their security was being taken seriously and that the overt security provision was proportionate.  To this end, we designed and delivered a training programme for all public facing staff which enhanced security by empowering staff and offering greater public service and engagement thereby making the venue more welcoming to guests and at the same time deterring hostile actors.

In addition to the above we also made recommendations and assisted the client to reduce security related risk by way of the following: enhancing strategic governance and risk management processes; engendering a security culture within the workforce; developing a suite of standard operating procedures and response plans for the venue (including associated management training and testing and exercising); developing public facing messaging and deterrence communications; devising public search and screening processes and working procedures; enhancing control room working practices and maximising existing technology; implementing and developing bespoke event risk assessment processes; devising contingency plans in the event of both a marauding terrorist attack at the venue and action to be taken in the event of an increased threat.

All recommendations made were based on Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) and National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) advice and guidance.