Security guards play a protecting role for the property and business. Did you choose to be a security guard? In this guide, you will be helped to become a professional security professional in the UK.
Over 370,000 security professionals hold a Security Industry Authority (SIA) license in the UK, and the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) says that as businesses continue to rely on professional services, demand is rising.
Why Become a Security Guard?
More Job Security: Security is a fast-growing industry where demand exists in retail, events, and private businesses.
Scheduling flexibility: Most jobs have days, evenings, or weekends that allow part-time work.
Career Advantages: Upon gaining experience within the profession, security workers can grow to be supervisors or managers or shift into another specialty, such as cash-in-transit or event safety.
High Pay: Security guards expect high pay, but keep in mind your pay will be based on your experience, and the average pay is £11-£13 per hour. With high experience and specialist guards earning up to £18 per hour
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before starting, check it.
- Should be at least 18 years old.
- Have the right to work in the UK.
- Have a clean criminal record, as serious convictions may prevent licensing.
- Be physically fit for patrolling and emergencies.
Good communication skills and basic IT knowledge are also recommended.
Step 2: Complete Security Guard Training
Training is necessary in the UK; all security guards must hold a Security Industry Authority ( SIA ) license.
Training Cover:
- Health and safety
- Conflict management and communication
- Emergency procedures and first aid basics
- Understanding the law and your powers as a security guard
Most courses are 5-10 days long, depending on the type of license. For example:
- Door Supervisor License: 5-day training course
- Security Guard License: 4-day training course
Fact: A 2019 BSIA report showed that over 80% of UK security firms prefer guards with formal SIA training.
Step 3: Get Your SIA License
You can work as a security guard to get a sis licence; however, to do so legally, you need one. The steps include:
- Complete approved SIA training.
- Completing the online application on the SIA website
- Pass a criminal record check.
- After completing the training, apply for the licence and the average licensing fee (currently £220 for a 3-year license, to be held from 2026 forward).
Tip: Do not perform work until after your licence has been registered. It is illegal to work without it, and you may be fined or even face criminal charges as a result once you have a certified SIA security licence that’s good for you.
Step 4: Gain Work Experience
After receiving the licence, you can apply for jobs that feature:
- Companies such as G4S, Securitas, and Mitie.
- Retail stores, offices, warehouses, and banks
- Event venues, stadiums, nightclubs, and university
- Hospitals and schools
For newer roles, they usually are positions that require monitoring CCTV or patrolling at a certain level.
- Door supervisor
- Event security manager
- Cash-in-transit officer
Details: Officers with 1–2 years of experience receive, on average, 15–20% more than operational staff.
Step 5: Develop Additional Skills
To be a great security guard in the UK, follow
- Observational Skills: The ability to identify abnormal or malicious behavior quickly.
- Communication skills: state matters conclusively in the report and handle odd situations with honor.
- Technical skills: CCTV systems, alarms, and incident reporting software
- Conflict Management: Manage arguments or disputes calmly.
Fact: According to the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) survey in 2018, guards with level-4 skills were 25% more likely to get promoted to a supervisor.
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