Bidvest Noonan has introduced a new Protective Security Training Programme to strengthen preparedness for terror-related incidents and improve safety within public and corporate spaces.
The programme launch comes as the UK security industry prepares for the introduction of Martyn’s Law, which will place greater responsibility on venues and organizations to enhance their counter-terrorism measures.
The initiative began with specialist training for control room operators, trauma-trained medics, and security officers, focusing on rapid decision-making and coordination during major incidents. A live, scenario-based counter-terrorism exercise followed at White City Place in London, providing a realistic urban environment for testing emergency response.
The exercise replicated the “Platinum 10 Minutes” — the critical period immediately following a major incident when decisive action can help prevent further loss of life. The scenario, a simulated Vehicle as a Weapon (VAW) attack, was supported by Turret Training, St John Ambulance, and specialists from St Barts Hospital.
According to the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and ProtectUK, threats such as Marauding Terrorist Attacks (MTAs) and vehicle-based assaults remain among the most likely forms of attack. These events can develop rapidly, often before emergency services are able to respond. Incidents including Westminster Bridge and London Bridge (2017) and the Liverpool vehicle attack (2025) highlight the continued importance of effective, immediate response capabilities.
Bidvest Noonan’s new training aims to convert national protective guidance into practical, on-site capability for private-sector security teams, offering realistic and site-specific preparation for major incident management.
“Incidents like these unfold in seconds, not minutes. Our goal is to ensure that when the worst happens, our teams are ready to act decisively and protect lives. By simulating real threats in real environments, we’re giving our people the skills and confidence to respond under pressure,” said Greg Beech, Director of Operations, Bidvest Noonan.
One participant commented, “It was an intense but valuable experience. The realism of the exercise helped us understand how crucial communication and quick thinking are in those first moments.”
The training aligns with Home Office and NPSA frameworks and anticipates the Protect Duty (Martyn’s Law), set to strengthen the UK’s protective security landscape. Future phases of the programme will include modules covering bladed-weapon attacks, hostile intruder incidents, and suspicious-package procedures, supporting a broader approach to threat readiness across public and private environments.