Behavioural Detection
What is Behavioural Detection?
Behavioural detection is an effective enhancement to any existing security strategy. Initially developed by the UK CPNI (now NPSA) as a counter-terrorism measure for law enforcement and government agencies for onsite safeguarding of critical infrastructure, it continues to demonstrate equal value amongst the protective security landscape, identifying and disrupting criminal and disruptive intent. Integration of behavioural detection enhances the effect and reach of your wider safety & security operation, safeguarding the public and crowded spaces.
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How Behavioural Detection Disrupts Threats:
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Instils a proactive mindset based on optimum awareness
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A systematic & structured approach to identify and detect individuals conducting reconnaissance or engaging in hostile, disruptive or criminal activity
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Layered tiers of training enables a wider proactive security capability
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A core element of the 3D Disruptive Effects model of the UK National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), it is:
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Scientifically grounded – based on the observation of behavioural cues
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Evidence-backed – supported by extensive empirical research
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Non-discriminatory – avoids the pitfalls of traditional profiling and stereotyping



Behavioural Detection Operative (BDO)
Level 3 Highfield Accredited - 2 days
This comprehensive two-day course is specifically tailored for security professionals, providing them with the skills to effectively identify, observe, and engage individuals with hostile, disruptive or criminal intent. The training is interactive, insightful and practical, suitable for participants from all experience levels and backgrounds. It enhances situational awareness, sharpens decision-making, and improves threat engagement capabilities.
Key Learning Areas:
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NPSA Protective Security (3D) Model: Understand the core principles of the Protective Security framework and how Behavioural Detection Officer (BDO) operations fit within it.
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Awareness & Observation: Master the concept of achieving and maintaining optimal awareness and honing observation skills crucial for BDO effectiveness.
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Physiological Responses to Stress: Learn how stress affects human behaviour and the body's responses, aiding in identifying potential threats.
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Suspicious Behaviour Identification: Develop the ability to spot suspicious actions and behaviours indicative of hostile or criminal intent.
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Detection Methods: Explore both passive and active approaches to detecting threats.
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Engagement Techniques: Acquire conversational tactics, recognise deception cues, and use engagement strategies to detect deception.
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Threat Resolution: Gain insights into operational procedures for handling threats, including referral processes and escalation protocols.
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Live Scenario Exercises: Participate in real-world, scenario-based training and/or live deployment, guided by experienced professionals to reinforce/mentor skills learned.
Operational Management for Behavioural Detection - 2 days + remote coursework for submission
2 day duration, for L3 qualified BDO's.
This course is designed for experienced BDOs to progress into operational management roles. Based on the UK NPSA disruptive effects model, it equips learners with the skills to conduct comprehensive site assessments and to develop effective strategies and plans for BD operations, ensuring seamless integration within broader security operations.
Course structure:
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Operational overview
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Recap the current operational landscape for BD operations
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Understanding operational objectives for BD
Disruptive effects
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Understand the NPSA disruptive effects model to assess risk and mitigate threat
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Learn the concept of effects planning
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Understand the hostile appreciation model
Hostile activity
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Understanding Threat vectors & indicators
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Hostile planning exercise
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Tactical application of DETECT capabilities
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Understanding the principles of active and passive detection
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Understanding appropriate resources & tactics to best meet operational objectives
Command & Control
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Understanding how BD ops integrate with the wider security operational framework
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Understanding the need for command structure ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, accountability & safety
Briefing and de-briefing
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Understanding of operational briefing model IIMARCH
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Understanding the purpose of HOT and COLD debriefing models
Post course
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Completion of operational plan and briefing for submission and assessment.


Behavioural Detection Awareness for CCTV Operators - 1 day
Specifically tailored to integrate and enhance a venue's Behavioural Detection capability.. Providing operatives with the skills to effectively identify and observe individuals with hostile, disruptive or criminal intent, forming part of a wider BDO capability. The training is insightful and practical, suitable for participants from all experience levels and backgrounds, enhancing situational awareness, assessment and confidence to effectively assist and refer the wider team.
Key Learning Areas:
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NPSA Protective Security (3D) Model: Understand the core principles of the Protective Security framework and how Behavioural Detection Officer operations fit within it.
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Awareness & Observation: Master the concept of achieving and maintaining optimal awareness and honing observation skills crucial for operational effectiveness.
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Physiological Responses to Stress: Learn how stress affects human behaviour and the body's responses, aiding in identifying potential threats.
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Suspicious Behaviour Identification: Develop the ability to spot suspicious actions and behaviours indicative of hostile or criminal intent
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Concise communication: Understand the need for concise communication with the wider BDO team.
Behavioural Detection, Hostile, Disruptive and Criminal Awareness - 1 day
For all public facing/front of house staff. A 1 day course, providing a comprehensive insight to the concept of behavioural detection and methodology of hostile reconnaissance, disruptive & criminal activity and insider threats.
Equipping team members with a proactive mindset and proficiency to::
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Identify suspicious behaviour and actions of individuals with hostile, disruptive or criminal intent.
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Apply an effective escalation and reporting process.


Behavioural Detection Development
A service to refresh the skills of operatives who have previously attended the two day BDO course. Tailored to the needs of our clients, we offer:
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Live operational mentoring and de-briefing for your team
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Updates regarding recent incidents, changes to industry compliance and/or best practice.



