A new careers guide written in association with Skills for Security, Bridging the Gap, Jobcentre Plus and Remploy is on the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) website. The manual showcases the opportunities available within the private security industry.
For those looking to get back into a job after a period of unemployment or ill health, or simply wanting to make a career change into something more exciting and varied, this new guide supplies relevant info on what’s available within private security. Industry roles range from fire engineer to operations director, with significant chances for career progression the guide authors say. Descriptions of roles tailored to levels of skill can be found in the guide.
James Kelly, Chief Executive of the BSIA, says: “Technology and service delivery within the private security industry have developed rapidly in recent years, yet despite this, many still perceive a career in security as little more than the old-fashioned image of a ‘guard’ in a cabin. In actual fact, today’s security officers perform a wide variety of tasks, operating cutting-edge technology and working at the hub of business operations. The industry’s commitment to providing personal development is particularly strong, meaning that security is no longer just a job, but a rewarding and fulfilling career. The BSIA’s guide aims to demonstrate all of these facts, and to raise awareness of the many opportunities for young people, those leaving the armed forces, and those who simply want a change of direction to an industry where no two days are ever the same.”
For some of these opportunities, a specific licence issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) may be needed. Details of the licence, including when you may need it and how to acquire one, are also outlined.
For many roles, sufficient training may be required to ensure that staff are valued and trusted by their employers, customers and the public. The BSIA’s Training Providers Section, launched this year, works to improve the standard of training available for members and their employees. Featured in the guide, Chairman of the section, Paul Tennent, provides readers with some tips and advice on how to gain a reliable training provider, to prepare them for their ideal job.
There are a variety of initiatives or qualifications available for those wishing to make a career move into security. One such initiative is that of ‘Remploy’, the recruitment agency, that helps facilitate those who are disabled or suffering from health conditions, the long term unemployed and ex-service personnel with employment opportunities.
“The help Remploy provided really helped to turn around my life,” says Andrew Ruson, who now works for a BSIA member company. Other such success stories and sentiments from individuals benefited from working in the industry are available to read in the guide.
Martin Brown, Work Services Director at Jobcentre Plus said of the guide: “As part of a continuing programme of partnership engagement with the security industry trade body, Jobcentre Plus were delighted to actively contribute to the contents of the BSIA Careers Guide.” He believes that the “document will be an invaluable method of showcasing the industry to jobseekers.”
The authors say a career within the private security industry can be extremely rewarding, with outstanding individuals annually recognised by the industry’s National Awards. To find out more, see www.bsia.co.uk.
