We are now operating the Olympic Safety and Security programme on the basis of the new five workstream structure, matching programme objectives that were agreed by Ministers last month.  The first meetings of the new programme boards for these five objectives will be chaired by Charles Farr, our Senior Responsible Owner, around the end of the month.  They replace the Executive Programme Board which had its final meeting on 5 March.

Robert Raine

Director, Olympic Safety and Security Programme

Other news

Thames Valley Police preparation event

Buckinghamshire County Council recently launched its 'Are You Ready?' campaign with a keynote speech from LOCOG chairman Lord Coe. The campaign aims to help businesses and community groups in the county make the most of the opportunities the Games present. Thames Valley Police were part of the co-ordinating group behind this scheme, providing advice on safe and secure events and gave a presentation at the launch event. Click here for more information.

BBC's Building the Olympic Dream series

Last night saw the broadcast on BBC2 of the second one-hour episode of a three-part observational documentary series Building the Olympic Dream, filmed behind the scenes of the preparations for London 2012 and featuring interviews with key decision makers and those responsible for ensuring its delivery. The first episode focused on LOCOG and the preparations for London 2012's handover slot in the Beijing Closing ceremony. This week, the story moved to the impact on the local area of the construction phase. Part three will be broadcast at 9pm on Wednesday March 18.

OSD engagements

Commander Ian Quinton and OSD Head of Policy Ben Fletcher last week presented the security strategy and the investment appraisal process to the National Olympic Security Oversight Group, comprising representatives from police, fire and health authorities, and to the Association of Police Authorities. In addition, Det Supt Clarke Jarrett briefed a national conference for police and agency operational security units and officers, at Bramshill, on the OSD and the Covert Security Project.

MPS Assistant Commissioner appointment

The Metropolitan Police Authority has advertised for an Assistant Commissioner to undertake the role of Assistant Commissioner Olympics and Central Operations. The successful candidate will lead the police service's approach to the 2012 Olympics and will head the ACPO Olympic Business Area. It is hoped that the selection process will be concluded by mid to late May. Click here for more information.

Ambulance Service visit to Vancouver

Managers from the 2012 planning teams of South Western Ambulance Service (SWAST) and the London Ambulance Service (LAS) recently visited the venues and test events of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games.  Hosted by the British Columbia Ambulance Service and Vancouver Coastal Health, the purpose of the trip was to assess the impact of the Games in a similar healthcare setting, and to benefit from the lessons learned through the Canadian preparations.

This was a very successful tour, with a great deal of shared information and the opportunity to visit live sites in test phase.  A positive working relationship has developed between Games organisers, medical providers and security officials, creating an impressive team effort in the final stages of preparation.

Issues of commissioning and funding for health services were common to both countries; all of the visitors were impressed with the medical preparations and integration of the ambulance personnel.  Representing SWAST and NHS Dorset, Chris Chambers (2012 Project Manager) said: "This has been an invaluable chance to really see inside the Olympic experience, with access to both field of play and the organising structures.  We have had a very positive welcome from VANOC and all the agencies involved, demonstrating the value and benefits of shared learning and understanding."

Recognising OSD volunteers

Darren Sheridan, OSD volunteer manager organised an annual recognition event to thank the 10 OSD volunteers for their time and effort. The team of 10 had a tour of the Olympic Park followed by lunch and an update from the ODA on the park's progress.

Superintendent Leroy Logan also awarded the team with 2012 pin badges as a token of thanks for their support.