CSSC South East hosts Protecting our Places of Worship Conference 6th November 2019
This one-day conference to help better prepare those responsible for the security at places of worship, was held at Rochester Cathedral. It was sponsored by Ward Security and attracted over 70 delegates from the South East.
Delegates heard from speakers from the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, Kent Police, Kent Fire & Rescue Service and the South East CTSA who shared their knowledge and provided practical security advice and guidance.
There were also insights from Andy Snazell, the emergency planning manager for Southwark Council who dealt with the aftermath of London Bridge and Borough Market attacks; Jonathan Brady, Head of security of St Paul’s Cathedral; and Kevin Thomas of Ecclesiastical Insurance and Fiona Macalister, a preventive and practical conservator, who covered artefact recovery for places of worship.
David Ward, Chair of the CSSC South East, who organised the event said, “As a trustee for Rochester Cathedral, I am acutely aware of the very specific security challenges these venues face around providing a safe and secure environment, while still maintaining free and easy access for all.”
We were very grateful to all the speakers who invested their time to provide such useful and practical advice. We will now look to set up future events during 2020 for our CSSC South East members.