UK-first cyber crime support programme for businesses

A new programme to help Lancashire businesses protect themselves from cyber crime has been established at the University of Lancashire.

Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw is using proceeds of crime to support the delivery of the Cyber Attack Hydra Simulation at the university.

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 practise 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 & Technology, 43 per cent of businesses experienced a cyber breach or attack in a twelve 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.

Clive Grunshaw said: “Lancashire’s businesses are vital to our communities and our economy, and cyber crime 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.

“Helping people and businesses avoid becoming victims in the first place is exactly what my Police and Crime Plan is about - keeping Lancashire safe.”

Clive Tattum, dean of the School of Law and Policing at the University of Lancashire, said: "We are committed to working with businesses and public sector partners to address the challenges that matter most to our region. Cyber crime presents a growing challenge for organisations of every size, and helping businesses build the knowledge, confidence and resilience to respond effectively is vital for the long-term success of our local economy.

"Our Hydra immersive simulation facility provides a unique environment for realistic, scenario-based training, enabling participants to experience the pressures and complexities of a cyber incident in a safe and supported setting. The facility has a strong track record of supporting police training and we are delighted to be the first university in the UK to adapt this approach specifically for the business community. By working together, we can strengthen resilience across Lancashire and help organisations better protect themselves against this continually evolving threat."

A selection of initial dates is now available, with more to be added throughout the year. You can register via Eventbrite.

Lancashire Cyber Attack Hydra Simulation Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite