Last week, I attended the 2025 International Security Expo and Global Counter Terror & Security Summit. Private security leaders from around the world came together to discuss optimising resilience, updates to counter-terrorism procedures, and the progress on Martyn’s Law during its 24-month implementation period.
It was certainly a lively event, with fake protestors scaling down from the ceiling during live immersive performances, demonstrating how to respond to a range of scenarios. Though theatrical, these brought home just how crucial practical preparedness is in today’s security landscape.
I listened to many in-depth discussions, including on which attack methodologies are more prevalent, evolving threats to venues and public spaces, and new schemes underway, including the competent person scheme and the counter terrorism security specialist register.
The modern threat landscape
Chief inspector Chris Simpson, head of engagement at the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO), gave an especially sobering speech. He opened with images of terror attacks and assailants in the last few decades, to evidence how threats have fundamentally shifted.
Previous attacks involved complex planning and resources, but current major risks now stem from simple, low-preparation attacks using knives, vehicles, or small improvised explosive devices.
He detailed what’s known as the 5+1 rule for current attack methodologies: The five main methods include marauding attacker, vehicle as a weapon, improvised explosive device, fire as a weapon, chemical/biological or radiological. Another major attack type is cyber, but security preparedness requires different expertise from NaCTSO. Understanding these categories is the first step in building effective defences.
To strengthen preparedness in the UK, he outlined several new initiatives that have been launched. The ACT for Local Authorities initiative aims to enhance training and readiness at the local level, as well as ProtectUK professional and non-expert e-learning tools, offering crucial guidance under Martyn’s Law.
Perhaps most significantly, a new “competent person scheme” and register will offer an Ofqual-certified Level 3 qualification to individuals in workplaces, accessible to anyone seeking to enhance their security knowledge. Meanwhile, the Counter Terrorism Security Specialists Register is under review and expected to open for applications from Spring 2026, as Martyn’s Law progresses through its implementation phase, with toolkits currently in development.
Private sector conflict support
Rob Dawson, director of GardaWorld, brought an international perspective to the conversation, discussing how private security can bridge the gap between public safety and government response in fragile environments. He discussed risk mitigation and support in some of the world’s most challenging conflict zones, including Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.
Dawson’s insights from Ukraine operations were particularly striking. Rapid deployment, integrated crisis management, and life-support services were essential in the field. Two factors emerged as critical: procurement speed and flawless documentation.
However, though this agility is vital abroad in conflict zones, it’s less easily transferable to the UK context, where documentation processes for compliance and scalability must take precedence. The balance between speed and proper procedure remains difficult to achieve.
Hostile vehicle mitigation
Vehicle-borne threats continue to be a major concern near government and public sites. Robert Ball, engineering director at ATG Access, emphasised that effective barriers and adequate standoff distances can significantly reduce blast effects, though outcomes depend heavily on the specific materials used.
He detailed how security measures must be considered holistically to avoid creating new vulnerabilities. A helpful example he gave was: if you’re worried about being robbed, adding a lock onto all doors and windows is one solution, but it will increase risk if there’s a fire. Security isn’t about adding more barriers, it’s about smart, integrated planning.
Ball also carefully considered the costs and benefits of AI integration. Its placement as a first line of defence could reduce risk to human life, but an AI programme may not accurately reflect a company’s emergency response plan, and the ethical implications require thorough examination.
One conclusion was clear: Strategic planning and in-depth understanding of a site’s needs and threats are needed before hostile vehicle mitigation can be successfully implemented.
Martyn’s Law’s progress
Ronnie Megaughin, interim director at the Security Industry Authority, provided an update on Martyn’s Law following its Royal Assent in April.
He outlined the distinction between standard and enhanced tier requirements, which range from basic evacuation plans to advanced threat and access controls. The Home Office is currently finalising guidance and enforcement frameworks. He signposted two resources: ProtectUK’s myth buster document, and its summary leaflet.
He also mentioned that recruitment for a permanent director is underway, to maintain momentum. There was some tension in the room, as an audience member noted a seeming lack of progress and clarity. It was acknowledged that regular updates will be minimal until the 24-month implementation period is further underway.
Looking ahead
The 2025 International Security Expo emphasised one overarching theme: preparedness above all. Collaboration, compliance, and adaptability emerged as central pillars for strengthening the UK’s counter-terrorism capabilities.
The newly formed Security Guarding Leadership Group, known as S12, signalled a new commitment to raising these standards. The group met with the Home Office security minister, Dan Jarvis, at the event.
Comprised of security provider leaders and industry trade associations, S12 is chaired by Paul Evans, CEO of Carlisle Support Services. It aims to work directly with the minister, Home Office officials and the SIA to shape policy, integrate contract guarding efforts with the police, and develop a Security Skills Academy.
With indiscriminate threats and low-preparation attacks evolving, so must the industry’s response. Two things remain essential: hyper-vigilance and preparation.
Magenta attends industry events throughout the year. Visit our blog page to find regular event recaps like this one.
