The Big Issue

In reality, security consultancies should create a link between the providers of security services and end users by offering independent guidance. I believe this is the only way in which we can truly ensure that clients invest in the right security measures for their particular situation.

The downside has been that consultancies were not fully represented within the main trade organisations in the security industry. As a result, for many years I have felt that it was important for key elements of the security industry to come together as an effective representative body.

I view the creation of the BSIA’s Security Consultancies Section as a major step towards achieving this goal. Security consultancies play a pivotal role within industry. We are invariably the ‘brokers’ between those who require and need security measures and those who provide them, and thus it is vital we are recognised for what is a crucial facilitating function.

As security consultancies, we are often at the very hub of security issues that any Board of Directors would have on its agenda. Typically, we will be consulted when it comes to formulating a security strategy, setting policy and Codes of Practice, tendering/managing guarding services or designing new security systems.

This is an extremely important time for the sector, with major changes occurring as part of the Security Industry Authority’s regulatory procedures. The entire industry is moving forward, developing standards and promoting Best Practice, and we must move forward with it.

The BSIA offers us an excellent Forum that will allow consultancies to play an active part in establishing the regulatory and occupational standards needed to ensure that licensing brings true professionalism to the marketplace.