The newly formed Security Guarding Leadership Group (S12) met with Security Minister - Dan Jarvis MBE for the first time at the International Security Expo, Olympia London, and announced Paul Evans (CEO, Carlisle Security) and Peter Harrison (FGH Security) as Chair and Deputy Chair of the Group, which brings together a diverse team of elected leaders from across the security industry.
The Group will regularly engage directly with the Minister, Homeland Security and the Security Industry Authority (SIA), offering a voice and insight from all areas of the industry. Its mission is to raise industry standards, help shape policy, accelerate the implementation of critical legislation and ensure that a diverse range of voices are heard to inform future decisions.
Implementation of critical legislation
Members range from the largest national providers to small and medium independent firms plus representation from industry trade associations. Each member is a senior security executive and will serve a minimum two-year term within the Group, meeting at least once a month.
Each S12 member will lead on at least one industry initiative and seek to create enlarged sub-working groups from the widest possible reach into the industry. Transparent records of their objectives and actions will be found on the newly created website.
Highest professional standards
The S12 will meet with the Security Minister and engage with the SIA on a regular basis
The S12 will meet with the Security Minister and engage with the SIA on a regular basis to drive the highest professional standards, drawing on industry wide data, and insights from trade associations, as well as supporting with the establishment of the Security Skills Academy.
During his speech at the International Security Expo, Security Minister, Dan Jarvis, said: “I am very pleased to announce the formation of the S12, a new industry-led initiative to bring together various parts of the private security industry to be able to speak to Government with one voice.”
He adds, “Earlier this morning we had a good and constructive meeting with the elected leaders who make up the S12. I was able to listen to what they had to say about how we can organise to improve standards within the security industry. I am keen for the government and for the SIA to work closely with them.”
Enhancing public protection
Paul Evans, Chair, Security Guarding Leadership Group (S12), said: “This Group has been built on the principles of inclusive representation, accountability and action. We recognise this is a critical time for our industry and the sense of collaboration has never felt stronger. However, we also face rising threat levels and there are still unfortunately reports of malpractice and shortcuts being taken which simply will not stand up against new legislation.”
He adds, “A core part of our mission is to equip security professionals with tools and training that reflect the changing landscape and to improve standards that will further enhance public protection. With the support of the Security Minister, we look forward to making a lasting difference and making the country a safer place for all.”
