As Founder of Crowdguard, Deborah Ainscough set out to raise installation standards across the temporary Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) sector, building a business rooted in quality, reliability and safety.
Since establishing Crowdguard in 2019, she has driven a process-led approach to delivering proportionate, standards-compliant HVM solutions for events, venues and public spaces.
A Board Member of the Protective Security Suppliers Association (PSSA), Deborah is recognised for her commitment to integrity, teamwork and operational excellence, working closely with industry partners to enhance public safety and strengthen the professionalism of the UK’s protective security community.
As we approach 2026, the security landscape is defined by two parallel realities: A persistent, evolving threat profile and a growing societal expectation that public spaces must remain open, welcoming and accessible.
Security professionals are increasingly required to bridge these competing demands, delivering protection that is proportionate, evidence-led and operationally achievable.
The most significant shift shaping the next 12 months will be the continued embedding of risk-based thinking across events, venues and publicly accessible locations.
The principles behind Martyn’s Law, not yet enacted, but already influencing best practice, are driving a broader recognition that risk assessment is not a paperwork exercise but the basis of every credible security plan.
Organisations are now more aware that threat, vulnerability and risk must be considered together and that mitigation must be tailored, justified and auditable.
This is particularly evident in the area of hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM).
As vehicle-as-a-weapon attacks remain a known methodology internationally, the UK is refining its approach to HVM to make deployments more consistent, defensible and aligned to standards such as ISO 22343-1, IWA 14-1 and the Vehicle Attack Delay Standard (VADS).
In 2026, we will see greater demand for solutions that combine verified performance with practical flexibility, systems that can support diverse operational needs, protect public realm environments without disrupting their character and be deployed rapidly during temporary events.
Technology will play an increasing role, but not at the expense of fundamentals.
CCTV, smarter communication platforms and digital tools will continue to enhance situational awareness and early detection.
However, these systems are only as strong as the plans, people and training that underpin them.
The most effective security responses still depend on well-briefed staff, validated procedures and decision-making structures that work under pressure.
Collaboration will also define the year ahead.
Police, local authorities, event organisers and security providers are working more closely than ever, particularly around pre-event planning, dynamic vehicle access management and incident response. T
his multi-agency approach is essential, not only to reduce risk, but to build resilience across the entire ecosystem of an event or location.
Finally, 2026 will demand continued focus on the public experience.
Security that feels overly intrusive undermines public confidence; security that is invisible but ineffective creates vulnerability.
The balance lies in measures that achieve delay, detection and deterrence while preserving the freedom of movement and enjoyment that define our shared spaces.
Whether through design-led HVM, proportionate soft measures or improved communication strategies, the aim is the same: Keeping people safe without compromising the vibrancy of our communities.
The next 12 months will challenge us, but they also present an opportunity to raise standards, strengthen partnerships and embed a culture of preparedness that protects people wherever they gather.
This article was originally published in the January edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.
