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Sector Outlook
Security is high on the UK agenda, and there is vir tually no major
public or private organisation without a dedicated team managing
security issues. The market is strong and rapidly expanding, it is an
exciting sector with lots of career oppor tunities. Almost half a million
people are employed in security roles in the private sector, contributing
£6 billion to the UK economy. The UK security industry is heavily
concentrated in the South East of England, with London, The Midlands
and the South East holding 50% of the market – however job roles
are easily found throughout the country.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) plays a big role in the security
sector, with 70% of the workforce being regulated by them. Many roles
in the industry require an SIA licence such as security guard, door
supervisor, close protection officer, public space surveillance operative
and for cash in transit work. All these jobs have a minimum entry of
18 and require necessary security screening for applicants. If you are
16 you could do an apprenticeship in security systems installation or
as a locksmith. If you have A levels or a relevant level 3 qualification,
you could consider applying for an advanced apprenticeship in cyber
security or security intelligence.
Security is traditionally seen as a male dominated industry, however
females are represented fully at all levels throughout the industry.
Common places such as Job Centre Plus, local newspapers, and job
websites are a good place to star t when searching for security jobs.
You can also be more specific by searching on security company
websites such as G4S, Securitas or Mitie as most of them have a
careers page.
Security Industry