CPD in the Security sector

Overview of the Security Industry

Approximately half a million people are employed in the UK private security sector, which contributes approximately £6 billion to the UK economy. A major growth area within the security sector is cyber security, now estimated to be worth over £2.8 billion to the UK economy (gov.uk, 2013). The UK government has recognised this growth and has allocated £860 million towards the UK 2016 National Cyber Security Strategy, with the aim of improving the national protection of cyber infrastructure.

CPD in the Security Industry

A large share of the security industry is regulated by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA is responsible for licensing and requires people to prove their identity and address, and obtain formal security qualifications. Although the SIA currently does not require mandatory CPD from its members, it is highly likely this will evolve in the future, this being consistent with its role for the improvement of industry standards.

The security sector incorporates a wide variety of professions, ranging from the traditional uniformed security staff to highly skilled technicians. Roles within the security sector can include alarms and surveillance, cyber security, CCTV, close protection, event security, locksmiths, private investigation, security consultants and dog handling.