Cyber training is a UK first
Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner is funding a new initiative to help businesses strengthen their resilience to cybercrime.
Using the proceeds of crime, Clive Grunshaw is supporting the delivery of a UK first, business focused Cyber Attack Hydra Simulation, being delivered by the University of Lancashire.
The programme is designed to support small and medium sized businesses across the county by giving business owners, directors and senior managers the opportunity to practice how they would respond to a cyber incident before it happens.
The Hydra decision making framework, traditionally used by emergency services and strategic command teams, has been adapted for the first time in the UK specifically for a business setting, reflecting the challenges faced by organisations across Lancashire.
Using a realistic, time pressured simulation, participants work through the types of decisions they may need to make during a cyber-attack, including those relating to leadership, communications, risk management and business continuity.
The exercise focuses on decision making and organisational response and does not require any technical or IT expertise.
According to the Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, published by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, 43 per cent of businesses experienced a cyber breach or attack in a 12-month period.
The training is free to attend for Lancashire businesses, ensuring that access to support and preventative learning is not limited by cost.
To support practical action beyond the simulation, participating businesses will also be offered aftercare support through the North West Cyber Resilience Centre, helping them to understand, prioritise and mitigate any risks or gaps identified during the exercise.
Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said: “Cybercrime can have serious consequences for businesses of all sizes.
“By investing proceeds of crime into preventative initiatives like this, we are helping businesses better understand the risks they face, prepare for the decisions they may need to make, and reduce the likelihood of becoming victims.
“Working in partnership with the University of Lancashire and regional cyber resilience organisations allows us to support businesses in a practical, accessible way and strengthen confidence across the county.”
Detective Inspector Dan Giannasi, who heads up the North West Cyber Resilience Centre (NWCRC), said: “Every single organisation, no matter how small, is at risk of cyber breach or attack. The NWCRC was set up to support businesses in growing their cyber resilience and will provide attendees with further free training and support.”
Each session accommodates up to 20 participants and includes complimentary refreshments and lunch.
A selection of initial dates is now available, with more to be added throughout the year.
- You can register via Eventbrite: eventbrite.co.uk/e/lancashire-cyber-attack-hydra-simulation-tickets-1989832405289?aff=oddtdtcreator
