Free one-hour training could help prevent terror attacks

More than 1,500 companies across the UK have signed up to a new one-hour training scheme that could help prevent terror attacks.

Developed in partnership between Counter Terrorism Policing and retail giant Marks & Spencer, the ACT Awareness e-Learning training course covers how to spot the signs of suspicious behaviour and what to do if an attack should take place.

The free online course can be divided into short sections to suit business needs, but takes just 45 minutes in total to complete.

Marks and Spencer’s head of business continuity John Frost, who helped lead the project, said the feedback from M&S staff has been very positive.

“Colleagues found the content informative and engaging and a second version of the product is now being planned to keep the training up to date with any emerging threats,” he commented.

The digital format is proving popular with shopping, entertainment and sports venues with more companies applying to take part every day.

Deputy assistant commissioner Lucy D’Orsi, national police lead for Protective Security, urged all staff working in crowded places - not just those who have a security role - to follow the course and be in a stronger position to help protect themselves, colleagues and the public.

"Our officers will still be available to deal with companies on a one-to-one level but this will lead to many more 'eyes and ears' available to help us that could potentially save lives,” she added.

Visit https://www.gov.uk/government/news/act-awareness-elearning to find out more on the course.

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