Gun Crime in the UK

A crime scene with bullets and a gun, with text overlay that says "Gun Crime in the UK"

Home The UK remains one of the safest countries in the world for firearm-related offences. However, gun crime continues to affect communities across England and Wales, with police forces still reporting incidents linked to organised crime, gangs, and illegal firearms. According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), offences involving firearms […]

SIA First Aid Training

SIA First Aid Training image showing a red first aid kit being held by a trainee, representing emergency response training for security professionals in the UK.

Does SIA require First Aid? To obtain an SIA licence, you must now hold an approved First Aid qualification before starting your SIA licence training. This requirement applies to close protection officers, security officers, and door supervisors. SIA First Aid Training is mandatory for both first-time applicants and those renewing their SIA licence. The SIA […]

Are Security Officers Considered Law Enforcers?

Are Security Officers Considered Law Enforcers article banner showing security personnel on-site, explaining the differences between security officers and law enforcement, legal powers, responsibilities, authority limits, and private security roles.

Police officers and security guards are often seen as having similar roles, both playing an important part in maintaining safety and security. However, a common question is “Are Security Officers Considered Law Enforcers?” In this discussion, we will explore this question and clarify the key differences between the two professions, including whether security guards have […]

Can I Become a Security Guard With a Criminal Record?

Statute of justice and law books in the background, with a text overlay that says "Can I Become a Security Guard With a Criminal Record?"

When applying for or renewing your SIA licence, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) will review your criminal record. But if you have a criminal history, you may be wondering if you can still become a security guard. In this article, we’ll explain why the SIA checks criminal records, detail the types of offences they consider, […]

What Does A University Security Officer Do?

University security officer standing outside a campus building to support university safety and security services

Home Student safety has become a prominent topic of discussion recently, fuelled by initiatives like the ‘Big Night In.’ As a result, university security officers are under increased scrutiny. Many first-year university students live in private accommodation off-campus, making robust security measures, including the presence of trained security guards, essential. But what does a university […]

Do You Need a Mental Health Check for an SIA Licence?

A young man talking to someone with a clipboard in a therapy session, with a text overlay that says "Do You Need a Mental Health Check for an SIA Licence?"

Home Mental health is an essential consideration in any profession, but do you need a mental health check for an SIA licence? In this article, we’ll explore this question and address other important topics, including whether individuals with mental health conditions can work as security guards, how the security industry supports mental health, and strategies […]

What Are the Duties of Railway Security?

Duties of railway security at the train station platform, with guards monitoring passengers and safety operations

Security guards play vital roles in many environments, from hospitals to factories, but what about train stations? Do these busy transit hubs have security measures in place, and are security guards part of their operations? In this discussion, we’ll explore how security operates at train stations. We’ll look at the various types of security measures […]

Do Security Guards Get Drug Tested?

Do Security Guards Get Drug Tested? Urine drug test kit for workplace security in the UK.

According to the Office for National Statistics, at least 8.7% of people aged 16 to 59 reported using drugs in the year ending 2025. This has led to a growing trend of workplace drug testing across various industries worldwide. But does this trend extend to the security sector? Do Security Guards Get Drug Tested? In […]

What Do Security Guards Do At Night?

A security guard car is seen with an overlay of the text 'region security guarding

Security officers often work in a variety environments, with many taking on night shifts. But what do security guards do at night? In this article, we’ll explore the duties of night security officers, what the job entails, how they manage to stay alert, and the potential earnings for those working the night security shift. What […]

Worst Places to Live in the North East of England

View of North East England highlighting locations associated with higher crime rates and safety concerns.

Cleveland, Durham, and Northumbria make up the three counties of the North East. Among them, Cleveland stands out as one of the most dangerous places to live in England and Wales, according to a study by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). With approximately 122.1 crimes per 1,000 population, Cleveland recorded the highest crime rate […]