UK Security Industry Update.

Front-line security professionals latest updates. August 2023.

Reading the bulk of security industry magazines, with TheProfessionalSecurityOfficer.com being the obvious exception, is of very little interest to front line professionals. Transitioning to more relevant content, what CEO has resigned, and what company has a new sales director, really doesn’t hold a great deal of excitement for me. Similarly, oceans of paid ‘articles’ about somewhat dubious CCTV manufacturers fail to capture my attention.

So, Get Licensed is going to bring you a monthly rundown of news and issues of interest to us. Introducing this new format, we kindly ask for your feedback on what you think and how we can enhance it further. Without further ado, let’s dive in:

• Job news: Professional Security UK, Regency Security Services Ltd, Trusec Security Ltd, The Keyholding Company Ltd, Comprehensive Security Services Ltd, London Theatre Company Productions, Metroguard Oxford Limited, Magenta Security Services Ltd, Ikon Protection Ltd, Secure Alliance Ltd, Secure Alliance Limited, Vulcan Security Ltd, and more are currently actively recruiting for a range of roles across the UK. Be sure to refer to the GuardPass app for full details.

• Counterterrorism law setback. Unfortunately, despite the dedicated efforts of those advocating for the implementation of this crucial legislation, Martyn’s Law, also known as the “Protect Duty,” has encountered a discouraging delay. Misguided “expert” testimony during the committee stage seems to have caused this setback. This testimony wrongly suggested that the costs and disruption to small businesses would be excessively burdensome. However, it’s important to note that this is not the case. Despite this setback, the campaign to advance Martyn’s Law continues.

If you’re interested in learning more or getting involve then visit https://www.figenmurray.co.uk/martyn-s-law

• International Security Officer’s Day. Although it took place on the 24th of July, it’s essential to remember the date. This is particularly important because national support for this well-deserved day of acknowledgment is gradually gaining momentum. If your company isn’t aware of it already, it’s a good idea to inform them and mark it for next year. Share your experiences with us and let us know how your client or employer celebrated this significant day.

• SIA, Freedom of information requests. We all have questions we would like to ask the Security Industry Authority. Many people have already raised many of these questions to the regulator through Freedom of Information Act requests. To their credit, they do provide honest answers to the majority of these, over 200 to date. Take a look here: Transparency and freedom of information releases – GOV.UK

• Forthcoming security events worth a look. One of the year’s biggest security events, the International Security Expo, returns to Olympia, London, on the 26^th & 27^th September. It is free to attend but you do need to prebook your ticket. To book and for more information visit: https://www.internationalsecurityexpo.com/

Do not assume that these events are not relevant to you as a front-line security professional. There’s consistently something intriguing happening, with valuable CPD seminars and abundant networking opportunities, especially if you’re focused on career advancement. So, why not give it a try?

• Win an award! Nominate yourself, a colleague, boss, company, or initiative. There are a few security industry awards out there. They are free to enter and normally involve a 10-minute online nomination process. We get precious little recognition in this industry, so receiving or being shortlisted for one of these gongs is always well received and looks good on CVs. One of the biggest is the Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs). The OSPAS is currently accepting nominations for a variety of categories. Take a look and see if you want to get involved: https://uk.theospas.com/

• New blog posts on the GuardPass website. Have a look at some of the latest expert advice and views covering subjects like career advancement, what recruiters look for in potential candidates, the value of 20 second candidate video introductions and much more. All free to access at: https://www.guardpass.com/resources/