Police make free anti-terror training available to public

Counter-terror officers from the police force have made a new training course available to the public on what to do if they find themselves caught up in a terrorism incident.

Called ACT Awareness, it is comprised of seven modules and takes around 45 minutes to complete, although prior registration is necessary.

The course involves videos of actors playing out key scenarios including bomb threats before participants are asked to answer questions on what actions to take and any risks that may have been identified.

Previously, the course was only open to businesses operating in crowded places, but the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) wants as many people as possible to be aware of potential threats and to become 'CT Citizens'.

NPCC spokesperson Lucy D'Orsi said the resource is useful, especially over the festive season when people may be visiting busier locations than usual.

"The threat level remains at substantial, meaning an attack is likely, so giving everyone the chance to be extra eyes and ears for police and local security teams helps to keep all communities safe," she added.

Britain's threat level was downgraded from severe to substantial in early November, weeks before a further atrocity was carried out on London Bridge.