The audit, carried out recently involved unannounced visits to 12 Council buildings to check how well existing security arrangements were working.

Security measures prevented unauthorised access at eight locations, while weaknesses were identified at four. These included unsecured doors and gates, people entering buildings without appropriate identification and Council vehicles being left unsecured.

The audit resulted in a limited assurance rating, with recommendations made to improve security arrangements and reinforce existing procedures.

The audit highlighted examples of good practice with employees following security procedures and challenging unidentified visitors.

However, it also found that these procedures were not always followed consistently.

Keeping our buildings secure helps protect colleagues, pupils, service users and visitors, as well as Council property and equipment.

While premises managers have responsibility for ensuring appropriate security measures are in place, there are also simple things we can all do to help.

A few everyday precautions can help keep our workplaces safe:

• Wear your ID badge - make sure it's clearly visible so colleagues can easily identify you
• Be aware of who's entering buildings - check that anyone without appropriate identification is authorised to be there. If you're unsure or feel unsafe, seek assistance
• Keep secure doors secure - avoid allowing anyone to follow you through controlled access doors unless they're authorised
• Help visitors follow the correct procedures - escort them to reception to sign in and ensure they're accompanied where required
• Check doors and gates - make sure they're properly secured, particularly after deliveries
• Look after Council vehicles - switch off engines, remove keys and lock vehicles when unattended
• Report anything that doesn't seem right - including faulty access controls, unsecured entrances or suspicious activity.

The audit has identified areas where improvements are needed and managers at the buildings concerned are now taking action to strengthen security arrangements.

Alongside these improvements, we all have a part to play in keeping our workplaces safe. By staying aware of our surroundings, following existing procedures and reporting concerns, we can help protect colleagues and everyone who uses our buildings.

Please take a moment to familiarise yourself with the security arrangements at your workplace. Small actions can make a real difference to everyone's safety. You can also access an online course Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) on the new Learning Platform, ask your manager for more information.