Following the recent terrorist attack in Golders Green, London, many of us may be feeling unsettled, concerned, or unsure how to talk about what this means for us. Here at Eden we want to ensure we are here, not just to support your learning, but support your emotional understanding and resilience too.
This blog is here to help you understand and explain what’s happening, why it matters, and how we can all stay informed and safe without creating fear.
A National Update – What’s Changed?
On 30 April 2026, the Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, Laurence Taylor, confirmed that the UK terrorism threat level has been raised from SUBSTANTIAL to SEVERE.
In simple terms, this means that an attack is now considered highly likely.
That can sound alarming, but it’s important to understand what sits behind that decision.
The UK has been seeing a steady rise in different types of threats, including both Islamist and Extreme Right-Wing terrorism. There are also growing concerns linked to global events, which can sometimes have an impact closer to home.
Police are already responding. In some areas, you may notice a stronger police presence, while in others it may be less visible, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there. As Laurence Taylor reassured the public: “We are with you.”
The key message being shared nationally is:
Be alert, not alarmed.
What Do Terrorism Threat Levels Actually Mean?
Threat levels are simply a way of helping the government, police, and security services communicate how likely an attack might be.
There are five levels:
- LOW – highly unlikely
- MODERATE – possible, but not likely
- SUBSTANTIAL – likely
- SEVERE – highly likely
- CRITICAL – expected imminently
Right now, the UK is at SEVERE.
This doesn’t mean something is about to happen immediately, it means that the risk is higher, and extra precautions are being taken behind the scenes.
How Are These Decisions Made?
Threat levels aren’t based on guesswork or a single piece of information.
They are set by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC), who bring together intelligence and expertise from across government and security services.
They look at:
- Intelligence – information from multiple sources (often incomplete, so expert judgement is key)
- Capability – what attackers may be able to do
- Intentions – what individuals or groups are trying to achieve
- Timing – whether something could happen soon, or is longer-term
It’s a constantly reviewed process, not a one-off decision.
What Does This Mean Day-to-Day?
For most people, daily life will continue as normal.
However, you may notice things like:
- More visible police presence
- Increased security checks in public places
- Greater awareness messaging in the media
These measures are there to protect, not alarm.
For all our staff and learners, this can be a really valuable opportunity to understand how safety systems work in real life.
The Importance of Staying Alert
One of the most powerful messages we can share is that everyone plays a part in keeping each other safe.
If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to say something.
- Anti-Terrorist Hotline: 0800 789 321
- Emergency: 999
- Online reporting: gov.uk/ACT
These reports matter. Many investigations begin with a concern raised by a member of the public.
RUN, HIDE, TELL – Simple Guidance That Saves Lives
Although it’s unlikely we will ever need it, it’s important we all know the basics of what to do in an emergency.
RUN
Get away if you can. Don’t wait. Don’t stop for belongings.
HIDE
If you can’t escape, find somewhere safe, stay quiet, and out of sight.
TELL
Call 999 when it’s safe, and give as much detail as you can.
This guidance is used across the UK because it’s clear, memorable, and effective.
Final Thoughts
Events like this can feel close to home, especially when they happen in London.
But understanding what’s happening, why decisions are made, and what we can do helps bring a sense of control and calm.
Don’t have all the answers, but we are committed creating a safe, informed space where staff and learners feel supported.
By staying informed, encouraging awareness, and promoting calm, we are all helping build resilience, not just in our learning environment, but in your wider community.
And that matters more than ever.
You can read more here:
Counter Terrorism Police: https://www.counterterrorism.police.uk/news/statement-on-threat-level/
MI5: https://www.mi5.gov.uk/threats-and-advice/terrorism-threat-levels
Run, Hide and Tell Video:
Protect UK: https://www.protectuk.police.uk/advice-and-guidance/response/run-hide-tell
