New CTP initiatives set to transform UK terror preparedness

Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) has announced two major initiatives to help organisations improve their protective security and readiness for terrorist attacks, responding directly to recommendations from the Manchester Arena Inquiry.

The first measure is a national Counter Terrorism Security Specialists Register, due to launch in spring 2026. The CTP-endorsed register will give businesses access to vetted experts who meet recognised standards and are bound by a professional code of conduct. It will be delivered in partnership with the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) and the National Protective Security Authority-sponsored Register of Security Engineers and Specialists, and administered by the Institution of Civil Engineers.

Jon Savell, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Specialist Operations, said the aim was to “empower organisations to make informed decisions about protective security and preparedness,” adding that industry feedback had shown a clear need for “professional and credible advice”.

A second initiative, the Competent Person in the Workplace qualification, is being developed with awarding body SFJ Awards. The Level 3 Ofqual-regulated course targets security, health and safety, and operational professionals responsible for protective measures. Set to be formally launched in March 2026 at the Security and Policing event, it will provide organisations with a structured way to understand and mitigate their terrorism-related risks.

David Higham, Managing Director of SFJ Awards, said counter-terrorism preparedness had become “central to the operational resilience of organisations”, and described the new qualification as “the only Ofqual-regulated CTP and NaCTSO-endorsed qualification in the marketplace focused on protecting premises from terrorism.”

Both initiatives are part of a Home Office-funded programme designed to raise protective security standards, widen access to trusted expertise, and give organisations greater confidence in their ability to safeguard staff and the public.

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