More in the August print issue of Professional Security. Only the highest standards will do, the National Security Inspectorate ‘Delivering Customer Confidence’ conference heard at Warwick University recently.
A varied programme covered the security and fire industries, and was chaired by Fiona Bruce of Crimewatch and BBC News fame. The event began with a welcome address by Tim Geddes, standing in for NSI chairman Sir Michael Bett, followed by keynote speaker, Prof Martin Gill, of the University of Leicester, who set the scene with his overview of the issues facing the security industry. Tom Mullarkey, NSI Chief Executive, introduced NSI’s position in developing quality standards, followed by speakers offering the views of the insurers, police and fire authorities who put their cases for standards as well as discussing topical issues.
Candid view
Recently retired Lincolnshire Chief Constable Richard Childs delivered his forthright view of the police perspective in a candid style, illuminating the important issues which the relationship between NSI and other principal stakeholders, such as the SIA, might involve in the future. Steve Clark, of Royal SunAlliance and Chairman of the ABI’s Crime Panel, discussed insurers’ reasons for demanding high standards as well as focusing on current issues facing customers. Chief Fire Officer, Phil Toase, of the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA), introduced the proposed changes to fire regulation and the Fire Service. Afternoon speakers provided a customer perspective through case studies, covered electronic security systems, manned security and fire protection. Bill McGlennon, Head of Security Services at British Nuclear Group discussed electronic security implications for one of Britain’s highest risk locations – Sellafield. Steve Middleditch, Head of Corporate Services at West Midlands Police, presented his perspective on the role of private security in providing manned security to his force. Finally, the National Trusts’ Head of Fire, Colin Packer, discussed the complex issues involved in protecting the nation’s heritage from often irreplaceable fire losses. All three speakers focussed on the excellent relationships (or ‘partnerships’) they have developed with their NSI approved companies – Initial Security, Pegasus Security Group and Wessex Fire & Security, respectively.
What they say
Afterwards Tom Mullarkey, said he was very satisfied with NSI’s first customer-focussed conference. "We were very pleased to be able to bring together such an authoritative range of speakers with interests across the security and fire sectors. What came through very strongly, and in some cases necessarily indirectly, was a universal endorsement of the ethos and rigour which NSI seeks to apply to the benefit of all customers. We clearly have a mandate to develop the relationship between customers and their approved companies further and this we intend to fulfil."
