7 December 2020
Counter Terrorism Policing New Winter Vigilance Campaign
With the coronavirus pandemic changing all of our day to day routines, it is understandable that the threat from terrorism isn’t necessarily front of mind for everyone across the country. But the threat of terrorism sadly has not gone away.
Given national and regional restrictions, there may be a different look and feel to city centres and public locations over the winter season, compared to previous years.
However, the recent terror attacks in Europe and the change in the UK’s terrorism threat level on 3 November 2020 to SEVERE are reminders of how important it is for everyone to stay vigilant.
Although not based on a specific threat, the change in threat level means it is highly likely that a terrorist attack could happen in the UK.
As both the Home Secretary Priti Patel and Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, UK Head of Counter Terrorism Policing have underlined, the change in the threat level is a precautionary measure following the recent tragic events in France and Austria.
To support operational activity, Counter Terrorism Policing (“CTP”) is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in its new Winter Vigilance campaign. And we need the support of business too.
CTP understands the challenges businesses have faced this year, and the effort needed to prepare and respond to changing restrictions to keep staff, customer and premises safe during the pandemic. As part of wider measures to protect your business and alongside your COVID-19 related messaging, CTP ask that you support the Winter Vigilance campaign and amplify safety and security messaging. It is particularly important to encourage your customers to be vigilant. A community in which everyone is looking out for suspicious activity is one of the most effective ways to deter those who would do others harm.
From today (1 December) you will be able to access a toolkit which includes creative materials for use on your digital screens, poster sites and social channels, and messaging to remind staff, customers and visitors what to do if they notice suspicious activity.
The content, designed following consultation with businesses and stakeholders, and taking into account the many pressures companies are under as a result of COVID, encourages the public to be vigilant without causing alarm. The content will continue to be updated and is designed to have a longer shelf life beyond the festive season. We plan to adapt our approach as COVID restrictions change and our crowded places evolve.
We’re grateful for the support the business community has provided in previous vigilance campaigns, which has highlighted the vital role you play in helping us to get this important safety and security message to your customers.
Any enquiries, requests for additional content or bespoke screen size content should directed to: [email protected]
