Marble Arch BID has pulled together a range of advice and information for Marble Arch businesses, staff and visitors during the busy summer period.
Counter Terrorism Policing has relaunched its Summer Vigilance campaign, encouraging everyone working in busy public spaces to stay alert and report anything that doesn’t feel right. With recent changes to the UK’s threat level, it is more important than ever that event organisers and businesses do their part to keep the public safe this summer.
What businesses, staff and visitors need to know
Everyone in busy public spaces has a role to play in keeping the area safe this summer.
Businesses should ensure staff are briefed on how to recognise and report suspicious behaviour, and that vigilance is reinforced in daily communications, particularly for front-line teams. Managers should also be clear on local reporting procedures so concerns can be escalated quickly and appropriately. Staff should be encouraged to trust their judgement and act early if something doesn’t feel right.
Alongside this, simple behaviours from both staff and visitors help keep public spaces running safely and smoothly during busy periods:
- Arrive early to allow more time for security checks and entry procedures
- Be patient with security measures, they are there to keep everyone safe
- Travel light where possible to speed up checks and reduce delays
- Stay alert and look out for others; if something doesn’t feel right, tell security rather than assuming someone else will
- Never leave bags unattended and do not agree to look after items for strangers
- Follow staff instructions and any announcements in the event of an incident
The key advice is simple: if you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it to security or online at gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency, always call 999.
Free staff training and resources
Free online training is available through the refreshed ACT Awareness e-learning programme, developed by ProtectUK and Counter Terrorism Policing.
The updated course is designed to support staff working in public-facing roles, including retail, hospitality, security, venues, and events. It helps people understand how to identify suspicious behaviour, recognise vulnerabilities in busy environments, and respond appropriately if something doesn’t feel right.
The course has been updated to reflect current national guidance and includes improved accessibility, making it easier for more users to complete. It also uses scenario-based learning to reflect real-life situations, helping staff make confident decisions under pressure.
The training is free and can be completed online at any time.
Find out more and access the course here.
Marble Arch Street Team
The Marble Arch Street Team patrols the BID area Monday-Thursday from 8am-10pm and Friday-Saturday from 8am-midnight and can be contacted by phone or WhatsApp on 07825 750 777 or 07852 566 122. In an emergency or if a crime is in progress, please dial 999.
You can view our security notifications here and sign up for our security alerts here.
