A message to the private security industry for Christmas 2023
A message from our Chair Heather Baily and our Chief Executive Michelle Russell.
As the year draws to a close, we reflect on the first few months of delivering our new strategy. Protecting the public is at the heart of everything we do as the UK wide regulator. We could not achieve this without both our own dedicated staff and you – SIA licence holders and private security industry colleagues.
Improving standards and supporting public safety
There are now a record number of 431,000 SIA licence holders. Whether you work in offices, protecting property, nighttime economy, hospitals, close protection or the high street – thank you for helping to protect people, premises and property across the UK.
This year thousands of you were part of the official events for HRH King Charles III’s coronation and many more were involved in local activities. Recent research we supported found that most people agree your presence makes them feel safer at national events and in other settings like concerts, nightclubs and sporting events. We will share further findings in the new year.
We recently launched a series of stories to mark 20 years since the SIA was set up, aiming to help the public to understand the value and positive impact of private security and its regulation. We will be sharing more of your stories as we approach the anniversary of issuing the first SIA licences in April 2004.
Working in challenging situations
You work in challenging situations and sadly some of you face unacceptable abuse. We urge all those who deploy and employ security to do everything they can to prevent unacceptable violence against staff, ensure it is reported to the police and those affected are properly supported.
We pay tribute to all those who were injured or lost their lives whilst on duty over the last year.
Regulating effectively and efficiently
We remain committed to regulating as effectively and efficiently as possible, without compromising public safety. We have reduced the licence fee and launched new videos about the application process. Most applications are completed in either 5 or 25 working days, depending on complexity. We are pleased that most of you remain highly satisfied with our licensing services.
We are continuing to increase the visibility and effectiveness of our compliance and enforcement work. This winter our inspection teams are out with partners ensuring that licence holders are complying with the law, reminding you of your training and the role you can play in keeping the public safe.
Supporting industry-led initiatives
We were pleased to announce the approval of a government-funded security apprenticeship. Through initiatives like this and the Skills Board we will continue to support you to achieve higher professional standards.
As well as holding our 2023 National Conference, we were delighted to support inclusion initiatives and industry events like International Security Officers Day (24/7). We will continue to facilitate positive conversations between businesses, industry associations and partners on initiatives which position private security as a career of choice and ensure security operatives feel valued.
Looking ahead to 2024
The 2023 King’s Speech mentioned the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, known as ‘the Protect Duty’ or ‘Martyn’s Law’. If it becomes law, it will mean many UK venues will need to take steps to protect their users and staff against the potential impact of a terrorist attack. As the Bill continues its progress, we will continue to work with the Home Office and others promoting the Bill to ensure the private security industry is ready to play its part.
We have started designing a new business approvals scheme. In the absence of business licensing, this will replace the current Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) and will be grounded in public safety requirements. Our engagement with security business leaders will continue into 2024, when we will consult more widely.
On behalf of the SIA Board and our staff, we wish you, your colleagues and families a happy Christmas and new year.