The average cost of a cyber security breach to an SME.
£1205
Percentage of businesses that spotted a cyber attack within the last year.
50%
Percentage of businesses that have undertaken a cyber security risk assessment.
31%
Cost of membership to The Cyber Resilience Centre for the South West.
£0
Our policing affiliation and our not-for-profit set up makes us a unique and trustworthy proposition. We are here to help.
Who are we?
We know that many of these organisations find cyber to be confusing, complicated or expensive. We are here to help solve those problems. We educate them so that they can look after themselves better, and we can access affordable and quality specialist advice for them if they need it.
Our geography covers Devon and Cornwall, Avon and Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset, and Gloucestershire. We are part of a national network, and funded by the Home Office and regional policing. We’ve been operating since October 2020, and were registered at Companies House in May 2021.
The lion’s share of what we do. The guidance you need to get safer, in bite sized chunks and with support if you’re stuck. Plus, regular updates on the latest threats, helpful webinars, and a team that’s happy to answer your questions. Our Home Office funding, supported by regional policing, lets us offer you something for nothing. And if you’re running a networking group or similar, we can help with general talks about cyber security and current threats.
Join our community of over 1600 subscribers today and you'll receive all of the following:
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A starter pack of guidance compiled by national experts, setting out the simple changes that make a huge difference to your digital safety
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A twelve week, bite-sized email programme to walk you through the essentials
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A free consultation (if you wish) to talk you through anything you’re struggling with
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A continuing monthly update on the latest threats, so you know what to look out for
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Regular webinars and podcasts on essential topics – like how to check your website is secure, or how your social media can be used against you.
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Local multi academy trust client, Somerset
Mark and his team took the time to meet with us several times, at no cost to ourselves, to talk through our requirements and answer many questions about how we could increase our security. The information provided was invaluable in helping us to assess responses and appoint a provider who we trust will be strong in this area. We can’t recommend their services enough, I would encourage anyone who is not quite sure where to start to get in touch.
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Current member
I joined because I work with a lot of businesses so wanted to point them in your direction, and also share important updates with businesses & my colleagues. It also keeps me aware of not clicking on links etc - reminders are very useful!
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Claire Brooks, MI
I didn’t know what I didn’t know about network security. The guys I was speaking to were very clear. Shortly after the completion of the work I did receive a very comprehensive report. The main thing for me was that it was very clear… the impact on my business of having the testing was really reassuring. It’s safe, and my customers are protected or as protected as they can be. Would I recommend? Yes, absolutely. It’s a huge reassurance to have that stamp of approval.
Steve Shepherd
Chief Executive Officer
Hello! I’m the CEO at the South West Cyber Resilience Centre, where I channel my passion for cybersecurity into protecting and strengthening businesses and organisations across our vibrant region. With a rich background as a UK Law Enforcement Cyber Protect Officer, I've shifted gears to lead our centre, driving our strategy and nurturing partnerships that help shield our community from cyber threats. I'm all about making cybersecurity accessible and impactful. Whether it’s through educating our stakeholders or delivering practical security solutions, I ensure that everyone we work with has the tools they need to stay secure in our digital world. Outside of my day-to-day responsibilities, I also indulge in my love for promoting online safety as a co-author of the D.O.G Online Safety Books, helping internet users of all ages navigate the web more safely. Feel free to connect if you’re looking to strengthen your cyber resilience or just want to chat about the latest in online safety!
Joseph Ross
Head of Cyber & Innovation
As the CTFO, Joseph is entrusted with the comprehensive responsibility of maintaining the SWCRC’s cyber resilience. This includes selecting and implementing appropriate technologies and conducting extensive training for employees and volunteers on cyber safety best practices. Additionally, he oversees the annual certification process for Cyber Essentials Plus, ensuring the organisation meets stringent cybersecurity standards. Financially, he manages the company's operations, including policy development for expense claims. In his HoCI capacity, Joseph is responsible for the operational output, providing cyber resilience expertise to regional organisations, managing all volunteers, and ensuring compliance with police vetting requirements. Furthermore, he acts as the academic liaison, fostering relationships with universities and integrating current research into the center’s practices.
Gary Carr-Smith
Advisory Group Lead
Gary is a former Merchant Navy Deck Officer and a retired Fire Officer having served in Avon Fire & Rescue Service for over 28 years, retiring in 2015. He has been a volunteer with Avon & Somerset Constabulary since 2016 as a role player within the Initial Training section and joined the SWCRC as a volunteer in 2021 as coordinating lead for the Advisory Group.
