NRUS were joined by Saville Kaufman, the Crisis Management Co-ordinator of CST.
Saville worked on the initial implementation of the National Security Control Centre, which now oversees hundreds of locations and thousands of cameras across the UK.
Saville explained how CST provides security advice, support and equipment to Jewish schools, organisations and synagogues throughout the country. CST also contributes towards the cost of essential security measures, including reinforced doors, anti-shatter window film, fencing, gates and advanced CCTV systems, many of which are linked to CST’s 24/7 National Control Centre.
The audience was enthralled by the depth and complexity of the protection CST provides to Jewish communities across the UK. Its sophisticated systems operate continuously, day and night, providing reassurance and helping Jewish people go about their daily lives with greater security.
We also heard how CST is widely recognised by the police and government as a unique model of best practice. Its research regularly informs public policy and contributes to efforts to safeguard wider British society.
Saville also described CST’s Open-source Intelligence [OSINT] capabilities. Their researchers are able to identify and track online antisemitism and extremism. This shapes their security activities and is a key component of their relationship with the police.
CST’s mission is to promote good relations between British Jews and wider British society; represent British Jews on issues relating to antisemitism; facilitate Jewish life by protecting Jewish communities from antisemitism and antisemitic terrorism; assist victims of antisemitic hatred; and promote research into racism, antisemitism and extremism.
One cannot help but think: if only there had been a CST in the 1930s.
Andrew explained the complex funding involved and how CST’s resources are carefully managed, enabling Jewish communities to live their daily lives with greater confidence and security.
We are indebted to this remarkable organisation and to the thousands of trained volunteers who dedicate their time to protecting our communities. Thank you, CST. We are deeply grateful—and immensely proud of the work you do to look after us.