About Us

The West of England Shomrim Network is a locally run organisation dedicated to protecting and supporting the Jewish communities in our region. Run by committed volunteers and supported by security professionals, our mission is to safeguard against hate crimes and other threats to community safety. We work collaboratively with the Community Security Trust (CST) to provide an added layer of local organisation, ensuring that our efforts are aligned with national security strategies while addressing the unique needs of our community. We work tirelessly to enhance security, provide training, and foster relationships with local authorities, law enforcement, and interfaith partners.

Self-Defence Classes

Whether your community is seeking family-friendly self-defence classes or more advanced combat training, our team of experienced trainers design each workshop to meet your unique needs. We offer tailored programs that cater to all skill levels, ensuring everyone from beginners to more advanced participants benefit from practical, effective techniques. For added convenience and accessibility, all of our training is delivered directly within your community. This allows us to adapt the sessions to your specific environment, making the training not only practical but highly relevant to the challenges your community may face.

Security Personnel Training

We specialise in training volunteer security personnel, providing them with the skills and knowledge required to meet security industry standards. Our comprehensive training equips volunteers to carry out discreet, efficient, and highly effective security operations, ensuring they are prepared for a wide range of situations. All of our sessions are conducted within your premises and local area, allowing us to customise the training to address the specific needs and challenges of your community. This localised approach ensures that participants gain practical experience in environments they will be directly protecting, enhancing both confidence and effectiveness.

Regional 4G Radio Network

Our 4G network ensures that communities remain reliably connected, facilitating communication both within and between communities. This seamless connectivity enables real-time sharing of crucial information, from reporting suspicious activity to coordinating local security efforts. By providing a direct line of communication, our network strengthens collaboration and response times, offering an extra layer of protection and support for all members. Whether it’s alerting others to potential risks or coordinating safety initiatives, this enhanced connectivity plays a key role in keeping our communities safe and informed.

Security Consultancy

We provide our security consultancy to Jewish communal organisations, schools, synagogues, and businesses, focusing on ways to improve overall safety and security. Our team assesses current security measures, identifies potential vulnerabilities, and offers tailored recommendations to strengthen protection. From physical security enhancements to staff training and emergency preparedness, we work closely with each organisation to develop comprehensive, practical solutions that ensure a safer environment for all. By prioritising proactive security strategies, we help create spaces that are better equipped to respond to potential risks and threats.

Meet Our Lead Security Consultant & Head of Training

John Keeley

John is a distinguished security professional with over 30 years of experience spanning all areas of security, management, and training. He dedicated 20 years to the Sussex and Metropolitan Police Services, with 12 of those years serving in the Royalty and Diplomatic Protection Group. His extensive experience includes counterterrorism, close protection, and armed response.

As a Government Security Services Instructor, John has delivered top-level training to various intelligence and security units, including the Special Intelligence Services (SIS). He also served as a tactical advisor for high-profile national events such as Trooping the Colour and the Royal Wedding, receiving commendations for his exceptional service.

Since leaving the police, John has taken on international security roles, including assignments in Libya on a DFID contract and a government protection detail in Geneva. He has provided personal security for high-profile figures such as Roger Federer, members of the Saudi Royal Family, and the Prime Minister of Kurdistan.

John has trained in Krav Maga at the Wingate Institute in Tel Aviv and is the founder of the British Kapap Association (Krav Panim Al Panim), emphasising his commitment to teaching and promoting self-defence techniques.

As the lead security consultant and head trainer for the West of England Shomrim Network, John is committed to ensuring that our communities receive the highest standard of protection and preparedness. His real-world experience in security, combined with his passion for training, equips our network with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective self-defence and security operations.