What Services They Provide

Staffordshire Police has significantly strengthened its cybersecurity capabilities as part of the 2024-2028 Police and Crime Plan. The force now operates a dedicated Cyber Crime Unit that provides essential services to local businesses, recognizing that cyber threats pose significant risks to both national and economic security.

Key Services for Lichfield Businesses:

• Free Security Assessments: Professional evaluations of your business's cyber vulnerabilities, available to all Staffordshire businesses
• Incident Response Support: Immediate assistance when your business experiences a cyber attack, including evidence collection and investigation support
• Business Crime Prevention Advice: Tailored guidance on protecting against fraud, ransomware, and other cyber threats specific to your industry
• Training and Awareness Programs: Educational sessions for staff on recognizing and responding to cyber threats
• Intelligence Sharing: Regular updates on local threat patterns and emerging risks affecting Staffordshire businesses

How to Access Support

Staffordshire Police operates under the new local policing model introduced in 2022, which delivers more responsive services to communities. For Lichfield businesses:

• Emergency Incidents: Call 999 if you're experiencing an active cyber attack that threatens immediate business operations
• Non-Emergency Reporting: Use 101 to report cyber incidents that don't require immediate response
• Business Partnership Programs: Contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team to arrange security consultations
• Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership: For businesses involved in transport and logistics, specialized cyber threat guidance is available

Recent Improvements

Following HMICFRS assessments, Staffordshire Police has made significant improvements in responding to cyber threats. The force has been removed from 'special measures' and now demonstrates better data usage, improved investigation standards, and enhanced support for victims of cybercrime.

A Police-Led, Business-Focused Resource

The West Midlands Cyber Resilience Centre is one of nine Cyber Resilience Centres across the UK, operating as a not-for-profit organization that bridges the gap between law enforcement expertise and business needs. Covering Staffordshire, West Midlands, West Mercia, and Warwickshire police force areas, WMCRC provides Lichfield businesses with access to cutting-edge cybersecurity support.

Free Core Membership Benefits

Every Lichfield business can access WMCRC's core services at no cost:

Knowledge and Resources

• Regular Threat Intelligence: Up-to-date information on cyber threats specifically affecting SMEs in the West Midlands region
• Cyber Security Guidance: Government-approved resources and tools designed for small businesses
• Industry-Specific Advice: Tailored guidance for sectors prevalent in Lichfield, including retail, professional services, and manufacturing
• Best Practice Frameworks: Access to proven cybersecurity methodologies adapted for business use

Affordable Professional Services

• Cyber Path Program: University students provide affordable cybersecurity assessments under expert supervision
• Security Awareness Training: Professional training programs for staff at significantly reduced rates
• Vulnerability Assessments: Technical security testing services designed for SME budgets
• Policy Review Services: Expert evaluation of your cybersecurity policies and procedures

Specialized Support Programs

WMCRC offers several specialized programs particularly relevant to Lichfield businesses:

Cyber Essentials Certification Support

As a trusted partner for IASME-approved Cyber Essentials certification, WMCRC helps businesses achieve this government-backed security standard. This certification is increasingly required for:

• Government contracts and tenders
• Supply chain partnerships with larger organizations
• Insurance requirements and preferential rates
• Demonstrating due diligence to clients and stakeholders

Police CyberAlarm Integration

WMCRC facilitates access to Police CyberAlarm, a free, government-funded monitoring service that:

• Acts as "CCTV for your internet connection"
• Monitors for suspicious activity targeting your business
• Provides regular threat reports and intelligence
• Alerts you to potential attacks in real-time

How to Access WMCRC Services

Getting started with WMCRC support is straightforward:

• Website Registration: Sign up for free membership at wmcrc.co.uk
• Needs Assessment: Complete their business cybersecurity questionnaire
• Resource Access: Immediate access to guides, tools, and threat intelligence
• Service Selection: Choose from their menu of affordable professional services

2025 Cyber Local Grants Program

The UK government's Cyber Local initiative, launched in January 2025, represents a significant investment in regional cybersecurity capabilities. This program, delivered through the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology in partnership with Innovate UK, funds local initiatives that address specific cyber skills needs.

What This Means for Lichfield Businesses:

• Local Skills Development: Funding for cybersecurity apprenticeships and training programs in Staffordshire
• Innovation Support: Grants for local companies developing new cybersecurity solutions
• Regional Expertise: Investment in local cybersecurity capabilities that benefit the entire business community
• Supply Chain Strengthening: Programs to help local businesses meet cybersecurity requirements for larger contracts

Cyber Security and Resilience Bill 2025

The government's new Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, published in April 2025, introduces several measures that will benefit Lichfield businesses:

Enhanced Support for SMEs

• Improved Incident Reporting: Streamlined processes for reporting cyber incidents
• Supply Chain Protection: New requirements for larger organizations to support their smaller suppliers
• Critical Supplier Designation: Protection for small businesses that provide essential services
• Regulatory Clarity: Clearer guidance on cybersecurity requirements and best practices

Cyber Governance Code of Practice

Launched in April 2025, this free government resource provides boards and directors with practical guidance on managing cyber risks. For Lichfield businesses, this includes:

• Free Governance Training: Online courses for business leaders on cyber risk management
• Cyber Security Toolkit for Boards: Practical tools for implementing cybersecurity governance
• Standards Mapping: Clear guidance on how to align with established cybersecurity frameworks
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Tools to track your organization's cybersecurity improvement

National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Resources

As the UK's national cybersecurity authority, NCSC provides extensive free resources particularly valuable for Lichfield businesses:

Business-Focused Resources

• Small Business Guide: Step-by-step cybersecurity guidance for SMEs
• Cyber Essentials Scheme: Government-backed certification program
• Exercise in a Box: Free tabletop exercises to test your incident response
• Supply Chain Security Guidance: Help for businesses working with larger organizations

Sector-Specific Guidance

• Retail and Hospitality: Specialized advice for Lichfield's tourism and retail sectors
• Manufacturing: Guidance for protecting industrial systems and intellectual property
• Professional Services: Data protection and client confidentiality guidance
• Education: Support for schools and training providers in the Lichfield area

Established Staffordshire IT Security Specialists

Lichfield businesses benefit from a strong ecosystem of local cybersecurity service providers who understand the unique challenges facing businesses in our area. These providers offer the advantage of local presence, regional expertise, and deep understanding of the business landscape.

MT Services Computer Systems Limited

Location: Tamworth (serving Lichfield area) Established: 1973 (over 50 years of experience) Specialties: IT Support, Managed Services, Cybersecurity

As a long-established provider with deep roots in the Staffordshire business community, MT Services offers:

• Comprehensive cybersecurity tools and solutions for 2025
• Managed IT support with integrated security
• Email security services and business continuity planning
• Security awareness training for employees
• 24/7 monitoring and incident response

Techcare Ltd

Location: Rugeley (serving Lichfield and wider Staffordshire) Focus: Managed IT Support and Cybersecurity Credentials: WatchGuard Gold Partners

Techcare provides specialized cybersecurity services including:

• Managed Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
• User security training programs
• Cyber Essentials certification support
• Co-managed IT support for businesses with internal IT teams
• Microsoft 365 security optimization

Prompt PC Ltd

Location: Stoke-on-Trent (serving Staffordshire region) Established: 1997 (over 20 years of experience) Philosophy: "No surprises, no bullshit, more care than your grandma"

Prompt PC specializes in:

• Expert cybersecurity assessments and implementation
• Microsoft Gold Partner services
• Cyber Essentials compliance
• Business growth-focused IT solutions
• Rapid response to cyber incidents

Staffordshire Tech Ltd

Location: Rugeley Focus: Home and Small Business Technology Support Services: Local technology experts with security focus

For smaller Lichfield businesses and home offices:

• Virus removal and internet security services
• CCTV and physical security installations
• Network security and configuration
• Data backup and recovery solutions
• Custom PC builds with security optimization

What to Look for in a Local Provider

When selecting a cybersecurity service provider in the Lichfield area, consider these essential factors:

Credentials and Certifications

• Cyber Essentials Certification: Ensures they meet government cybersecurity standards
• Industry Partnerships: Relationships with leading security vendors like Microsoft, WatchGuard, or Symantec
• Local Chamber Membership: Active participation in Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce
• Professional Accreditations: CREST, CHECK, or other recognized security certifications

Service Scope and Capabilities

• 24/7 Monitoring: Round-the-clock security oversight and incident response
• Compliance Support: Help with GDPR, industry regulations, and security standards
• Employee Training: Security awareness programs for your staff
• Regular Assessments: Periodic security reviews and vulnerability testing
• Business Continuity: Disaster recovery and backup services

Immediate Actions for Lichfield Businesses

Step 1: Assess Your Current Security Posture

• Complete the NCSC's Small Business Cyber Security self-assessment
• Register for WMCRC's free membership and complete their business questionnaire
• Review the government's Cyber Governance Code of Practice
• Contact Staffordshire Police for a free security consultation

Step 2: Implement Free Resources

• Sign up for Police CyberAlarm monitoring
• Download and implement NCSC's free security tools
• Access WMCRC's threat intelligence updates
• Start staff security awareness training using government resources

Step 3: Consider Professional Support

• Contact local Staffordshire cybersecurity providers for quotes
• Explore Cyber Essentials certification through WMCRC partners
• Investigate Cyber Local grant opportunities
• Plan for advanced security services based on your risk assessment

Building Long-Term Cyber Resilience

Create a Local Support Network

• Join Local Business Groups: Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce cybersecurity forums
• Participate in Regional Initiatives: West Midlands cyber resilience networking events
• Engage with Law Enforcement: Regular contact with Staffordshire Police Cyber Crime Unit
• Connect with Peers: Share experiences and best practices with other local businesses

Stay Updated on Emerging Resources

• Subscribe to WMCRC newsletters and updates
• Follow Staffordshire Police social media for local threat alerts
• Monitor government announcements for new support programs
• Maintain relationships with local cybersecurity service providers

Free and Low-Cost Resources

Many Lichfield businesses assume that effective cybersecurity requires significant investment. However, the resources outlined in this guide demonstrate that substantial protection can be achieved with minimal or no cost:

Completely Free Resources

• WMCRC core membership and basic support
• Police CyberAlarm monitoring service
• NCSC guidance documents and tools
• Government cybersecurity training materials
• Staffordshire Police security assessments

Low-Cost Professional Services

• WMCRC Cyber Path assessments (student-led, expert-supervised)
• Local provider basic monitoring services
• Cyber Essentials certification (typically £300-500)
• Group training sessions through local chambers

Return on Investment

When considering cybersecurity investments, remember that the average cost of a cyber incident to a small business is £2,240, with some incidents costing tens of thousands. The resources described in this guide can prevent most common attacks at a fraction of this cost.

Upcoming Initiatives

Several developments will enhance cybersecurity support for Lichfield businesses in 2025 and beyond:

Enhanced Government Programs

• Cyber Security and Resilience Bill Implementation: New powers and resources for business support
• Expanded Cyber Local Funding: Additional regional grants and support programs
• Data Centre Regulation: New protections for businesses using cloud services
• Supply Chain Security Initiatives: Support for smaller businesses in larger supply chains

Regional Developments

• West Midlands Cyber Cluster Growth: Increased collaboration between regional cybersecurity organizations
• University Partnerships: Enhanced Cyber Path programs with Staffordshire University
• Police Capability Enhancement: Continued improvement in Staffordshire Police cyber crime response
• Chamber of Commerce Initiatives: New cybersecurity support programs for local businesses