On 30 April 2026 the UK national terrorism threat level was raised from SUBSTANTIAL to SEVERE. SEVERE means an attack is highly likely.
The level is set independently by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC). The Government said the change reflected a longer-term rise in the threat from Islamist and Extreme Right Wing individuals and small groups based in the UK, as well as state-linked threats encouraging violence, including against the Jewish community.
The five threat levels
- LOW: an attack is highly unlikely.
- MODERATE: an attack is possible, but not likely.
- SUBSTANTIAL: an attack is likely.
- SEVERE: an attack is highly likely.
- CRITICAL: an attack is highly likely in the near future.
The advice to the public is to stay alert but not alarmed, report anything suspicious through the ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) website, and call 999 in an emergency.
What this means for venues and businesses
A higher threat level is not a reason to panic, but it is a good moment to review your protective security. For venues, events and busy premises, that means:
- Check your plans. Make sure your evacuation, invacuation and lockdown procedures are up to date and that staff know them.
- Brief your staff and security team. Remind everyone what suspicious behaviour or items look like and how to report them.
- Make searching consistent. If you search on entry, apply the policy every time rather than only when it is busy.
- Be a visible deterrent. Professional, alert officers at entrances and patrolling the premises deter hostile reconnaissance.
- Use free training. ProtectUK offers free ACT Awareness e-learning and guidance for businesses.
Run, Hide, Tell
If the worst happens, the national advice for the public is Run, Hide, Tell: run to a place of safety if you can, hide if you cannot, and tell the police by calling 999 when it is safe to do so. Staff who know this advice can help guide guests calmly.
Looking ahead to Martyn's Law
Many of these steps will become legal requirements once Martyn's Law comes into force for premises and events where 200 or more people may be present. Read our guide to Martyn's Law for more.
If you would like experienced, SIA-licensed officers at your venue or event, request a free security quote.