1. What is the Protect Duty, and why is it important for my venue?

- Answer: The Protect Duty is a draft (new) legislation aimed at improving security at publicly accessible venues, requiring event organisers to take steps to prevent and respond to terrorism threats. Compliance is critical to ensure the safety of attendees and avoid legal and financial consequences.

2. Who does the Protect Duty apply to?

- Answer: It applies to venues and public spaces with capacities from 200 people upwards, including event organisers, businesses, and property owners. It impacts theatres, malls, sports arenas, and temporary pop-up events.

3. What are the main requirements of the Protect Duty?

- Answer: The Protect Duty will likely require events and venues to conduct terrorism risk assessments, develop a Terrorism Security Plan, and designate an "Accountable Person" to oversee safety measures.

4. What is an “Accountable Person” under Protect Duty?

- Answer: An Accountable Person is a designated individual responsible for ensuring compliance with Protect Duty measures at a venue or event. This person must be competent and trained to review and manage risks.

5. How do I know if my event requires Protect Duty compliance?

- Answer: If your event is held at a publicly accessible venue and has a capacity of 200 or more people, it is likely subject to Protect Duty requirements. Our team can help assess your specific situation.

6. What risks should I consider when organising an event?

- Answer: Event organisers need to consider risks such as terrorism, health and safety, adverse weather, crowd control, security, and infrastructure. Our comprehensive risk assessments cover these and more.

7. How can the Decision Support Centre (DSC) help me comply with Protect Duty?

- Answer: DSC offers services such as the review of terrorism risk assessments, will provide real-time event monitoring, an expert advisory, and through affiliates will provide training programs to help venues meet Protect Duty requirements and ensure compliance.

8. Do I need special training to manage an event under the Protect Duty?

- Answer: Yes, the Protect Duty requires venues to have trained, competent, personnel, including an Accountable Person.

9. How does DSC monitor events in real-time?

- Answer: We offer real-time ‘beyond the fence’ event monitoring through our centre, which includes tracking threats, public health alerts, transportation networks, and more. This ensures rapid response in case of emergencies utilising our database of what is happening where and when, and the contact details we hold for organisers and stakeholders.

10. What types of venues or events are most affected by Protect Duty?

- Answer: Large venues such as theatres, malls, concert venues, sports arenas, and temporary events like festivals are especially impacted, but smaller venues down to 200-person capacity must also comply.

11. How can I prepare my venue for Protect Duty compliance?

- Answer: Begin by conducting terrorism risk assessments, developing a comprehensive security plan, and training key personnel. DSC can help guide you through this process with expert advice and compliance tools. Also have a look at Protect UK www.protectuk.police.uk

12. What kind of insurance is required for Protect Duty compliance?

- Answer: Venues may need to update their Public Liability Insurance to include terrorism coverage, and organisers may require Directors & Officers Insurance for the designated Accountable Person. Speak to your insurer to ask what may be required.

13. What happens if I don’t comply with the Protect Duty?

- Answer: Non-compliance can result in significant financial, legal, and reputational damage. Event organisers and venue operators may face penalties, fines, or be held liable in case of an incident.

14. How do I join the National events database?

- Answer: This is a free service, just complete the short questionnaire and keep your records up to date.

15. What types of training does DSC offer for event organisers?

- Answer: The DSC is a monitoring service, however, our affiliates provide accredited training programs focused on terrorism risk assessments, venue security planning, and emergency response protocols. These courses are designed to ensure compliance with Protect Duty and general safety standards.

16. How much does it cost to comply with the Protect Duty?

- Answer: The costs vary based on venue size, location, and the scope of necessary security measures. The DSC offers tools to help estimate your compliance costs.

17. Does the Protect Duty only apply to terrorism threats?

- Answer: While the Protect Duty is focused on terrorism prevention, event organisers must also manage other risks such as health and safety, crowd control, and severe weather conditions. DSC provides a comprehensive risk management service.

18. How can DSC help if there’s an emergency during my event?

- Answer: Through our database and real-time monitoring and expert advisory service, we can assist with quick decision-making and coordination with local authorities in the event of a crisis, ensuring safety and minimal disruption.

19. How does DSC’s risk assessment process work?

- Answer: Our risk assessment process involves analysing potential threats, vulnerabilities, and the likelihood of an incident, followed by creating a tailored security plan for your venue. We also provide ongoing support and plan validation.

20. Can DSC help with compliance documentation?

- Answer: Yes, we offer secure digital storage and sharing of compliance documents, including site safety files, training records, and risk assessments, ensuring all necessary documentation is readily available for inspection.