Project Griffin Awareness Days – “fascinating and motivating”
P
roject Griffin seeks to enlist the help and support of individuals or groups, from
across our communities, responsible for the safety and security of buildings, businesses, districts or neighbourhoods. Here, two recent attendees at Project Griffin Awareness Days share their thoughts on the programme and the impact it has made on them.
Tom Gbonda, Carillion plc Security Guard at Nationwide
Project Griffin aims to protect our communities from the threat of terrorism: ‘It brings together and coordinates the resources of the police, emergency services, local authorities, business and the private sector security industry.’ The topics covered included the current threat, bomb scene management, cordons, hostile reconnaissance and firearms.
This training has given me the tools to carry out my job with confidence. However, in the event of danger, I was advised to stay away from harm. My safety and that of my colleagues and the general public is of great importance.
The area that fascinated me most, and, I am sure, is germane to my job, was the examples of suspicious behaviour, for example:
• People asking detailed or unusual questions about buildings and business operations, facilities (such as room layouts).
• Evidence of tampering in plant rooms, unknown odours, substances etc.
• People using recording equipment, including camera phones, or seen making notes or sketches for no apparent reason.
The speakers encouraged us to report anything suspicious to management or police officers. “Don’t rely on others, if you suspect it, report it,” said John Yates former Assistant Commissioner in the Met Police. “Trust your instinct, have faith in your judgement.”
I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Carillion plc and Nationwide for giving me the opportunity to attend. I would encourage you to attend Griffin training whenever you have the opportunity.
Claire Whatley, Emergency Planning Officer, City of London
I found the Project Griffin Awareness Day fascinating and motivating. As an Emergency Planning Officer, I understand the value of Project Griffin and work closely with police colleagues to promote it widely. By attending the Awareness Day, I have up-to-date and
© CI TY S ECURI TY MAGAZ INE – WINT ER 2014 CSSC officially launched as charity N
ow widely accepted as an enduring security legacy from the Olympics, CSSC
was recently officially launched as a charity at a Gala Dinner in the City of London. Many of the supporters, partner organisations and sponsors were represented, with keynote speeches by James Brokenshire, MP, Minister for Security at the Home Office, and Sir David Wootton, former Lord Mayor of London and Chair of CSSC Board of Trustees.
Sir David paid tribute to all those who have been part of this initiative and acknowledged Don Randall MBE, Janet Williams QPM, and Sir David Veness CBE QPM as the driving forces behind its inception and success. Sir David also thanked the 190 Industry Sector Leads and all the other volunteers involved. He pointed out how CSSC is implemented “on a minimum budget” and “a great example of collaboration”. He commented on the “critical role of the private sector, creating one team from all sectors with one aim”.
James Brokenshire, Minister for Security at the Home Office, had to hot foot it from the House of Commons to make it just in time for dinner. He was keen to join the celebration: “CSSC has moved from proof of concept and grown to a truly national network”.
accurate information on counter terrorism. Additionally, I gain an awareness of what Griffin-trained guards are able to do, so that in the event of an emergency, I know where and how they can be deployed. It is also important for the police and local authority to have the same information and deliver a consistent message to the public.
I whole-heartedly support the idea that counter terrorism awareness is not just the job of police. As part of the City business community, we all have some responsibility. I believe that the more people who are aware, the better. Anyone who has a professional role or interest in security, such as representatives from the faith community, receptionists and post room staff can all play their part. We can all take note of what we see around us. Project Griffin training can vastly improve your knowledge of what to look out for. The information on how someone can become radicalised is particularly enlightening. You must put all preconceptions aside on how you spot a terrorist. Behaviour, not appearance, is key.
It is a great comfort to me to know that once a month, sixty or seventy people are trained locally. It gives me an extra reassurance that there is an ever growing number of people looking out for us all.
Enduring Olympic Security Legacy
James said, “We all recognise that the Olympics changed the way we work together and how we protect major events. The threat from terrorism remains a reality – but security arrangements do not need to have an impact.
“CSSC gives reassurance and is a powerful mechanism to communicate quickly and effectively. I am delighted that no main incidents did occur during the Olympics – we can reflect on this with pride. This success was underwritten by hard work, training and close collaboration between the private and public sector.”
Partnership is key
The partnership approach is a strong tenet of CSSC and was highlighted by James: “The range and depth of business involved means this is a truly joint approach”. James added, “We have a wealth of know how – and can enhance the security experience of other countries. This can help secure an economic boost for Britain. We can identify and realise commercial opportunities for the UK.”
Looking to the Future
James encouraged all participants in CSSC to take part: “Don’t just be a passive recipient, transfer information back. CSSC offers businesses a powerful platform for reporting security concerns to government.”And he closed by saying, “I look forward to CSSC providing an enduring security legacy that will benefit both the economy and the country.”
As awareness of the Accreditation scheme grows we have new accreditations at following addresses;
1 Fleet Place; Aldgate House; 88 Wood Street; Ashurst LLP, Loom Court.
New website is now launched at
www.cityoflondoncpa.org.uk
Check for more details.
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