Risk and safeguarding
The event was hosted by the National Counter Terrorism Security Office’s (NaCTSO) Business Engagement Unit in partnership with the UK Cinema Association. It highlighted the risks faced by cinemas and outlined practical steps to safeguard audiences and staff.
Speakers emphasised that cinemas could be attractive targets for terrorism and other security threats, and shared real-world examples of how security incidents can lead to devastating losses not only in lives and property but also in customer trust and revenue.
Key points at the event
Key takeaways from the event included:
Risk assessment and planning: Conducting thorough risk assessments and developing tailored security strategies to address vulnerabilities. The ProtectUK risk management process was presented as a method to help to protect and prepare. Read more about the Risk Management Process | ProtectUK.
Staff training and exercising: Providing emergency response training to all staff, including regular testing and simulation. Examples include the ACT Awareness e-Learning and the online exercise at ACT in a BOX Exercises | ProtectUK.
Collaboration with business partners: Building strong partnerships with local business to support a coordinated response to incidents and information sharing. Read more at About | ProtectUK.
Organisational Awareness: Encouraging a culture of safety, where audiences are empowered to report suspicious activities and support a secure environment. Find out more about Action Counters Terrorism (ACT): Report suspicious activity | ProtectUK.
Commitment to preparedness
Attendees left the event with a renewed commitment to making preparedness a top priority.
“It was really useful and productive to get all the safety and security leads from across the UK’ s national cinema chains together to hear updates from NaCTSO Business Engagement Unit, regarding a range of Counter Terrorism policing measures and potential challenges facing our sector, as well as further detail regarding the upcoming Martyn’s Law” said James Connor, Senior Policy & Projects Manager, UK Cinema Association.
With the Protection of Premises Bill receiving Royal Assent in April 2025 the event underscored that terrorism preparedness is not just a regulatory box to tick.
“It’s a fundamental aspect of responsible cinema management and a key driver of audience confidence and industry growth” said James Connor.
