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Hiring Warehouse Security Services in the UK: What Every Business Should Know

Protecting your warehouse isn’t just about locks and cameras; it’s about hiring a professional, reliable security partner that understands the specific challenges of warehouse facility management. Whether you operate in Birmingham, Coventry, Stoke-on-Trent, or Wolverhampton, investing in warehouse security services is a smart move for preventing theft, ensuring safety, and maintaining operational continuity. Why Warehouse Security Is Critical for UK Businesses Warehouses are high-value targets due to: Without the right security strategy, you risk: Hiring a reputable warehouse security services company reduces these risks while also improving your insurance profile and peace of mind. Key Things to Look for in a Warehouse Security Provider When evaluating warehouse security companies, don’t just compare prices look at their capabilities, licensing, and track record. ✅ 1. SIA Licensing and Staff Training Ensure the company only hires SIA-licensed warehouse security officers trained in: ✅ 2. Experience with Warehouse Facilities Management Choose a company familiar with warehouse facility management, not just generic manned guarding. They should understand: ✅ 3. Customised Security Plans Every warehouse is different. Look for providers that: ✅ 4. Local Expertise Security needs can vary based on location. For example: A company with regional experience can make smarter decisions on patrol routes, response protocols, and deterrents. Can Women Be Warehouse Security Guards? Absolutely. In fact, the role of women in warehouse security is growing across the UK. Female guards bring: Female security officers are equally capable of performing tasks like: [📺 Watch: How ESP stopped an 50K theft] 📌 Embed your YouTube video here Suggested video title: “Can Women Be Security Guards? | Changing Perceptions in UK Security Industry” TIP: Add a caption or short paragraph below your embedded video to explain how women contribute to warehouse and commercial security teams. Signs of the Best Warehouse Security Guard Services When reviewing providers, look for: Ask if they offer guards trained in: Final Thoughts Choosing the right warehouse security company can mean the difference between safe operations and costly disruption. Whether your facility is in Stoke-on-Trent, Coventry, or beyond, make sure you partner with professionals who offer experience, adaptability, and licensed expertise. Don’t just guard your stock, guard your future.

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The Role of Female Guards in Women’s Shelters & Safe Spaces

In today’s security landscape, female security guards play a vital and often underestimated role, especially in women’s shelters and safe spaces across the UK. As safety becomes more than just physical protection, the need for compassion, communication, and cultural understanding has made women security professionals increasingly valuable. Why Female Guards Matter in Women’s Security Women’s shelters, domestic violence refuges, and safe houses are sensitive environments. Residents may be survivors of abuse, trafficking, or harassment, often involving male perpetrators. Female guards provide: A sense of comfort and safety to traumatised women and children Improved communication due to shared lived experience or understanding Discreet conflict de-escalation without escalating fear or stress Privacy-conscious patrolling and secure access control In such environments, women security guards offer more than protection, they offer peace of mind. Can Women Be Security Guards? Absolutelywomen can and do excel as security guards in the UK. The industry is evolving beyond the traditional image of physical strength toward a more holistic skill set that includes emotional intelligence, observation, and conflict resolution. Key traits successful women guards bring: Empathy and discretion Strong situational awareness Effective communication skills Conflict resolution under pressure According to the SIA (Security Industry Authority), there’s a rising number of licensed female guards working across retail, healthcare, corporate, and community security roles. Women in Security: Breaking Stereotypes, Building Trust While the number of female guards is growing, they still represent a minority in the UK security workforce. Yet in spaces such as: Women’s shelters Schools and universities Hospital wards Community outreach programmes …having women security staff can build more trust and reduce emotional barriers between guards and those they’re protecting. What Makes a Good Female Guard in Safe Spaces? Whether they’re working in a charity-run refuge or a city-funded safe space, female guards are trained in: Safeguarding and vulnerability awareness First aid and crisis management De-escalation tactics Trauma-informed support approaches These are not just optional skills, they’re essential in making security human-centred and effective. Final Thoughts Women security professionals are changing the face of protection in the UK, especially where safety meets sensitivity. In women’s shelters and community spaces, their presence is not just helpful it’s essential. If you’re exploring security solutions for sensitive environments or simply curious about how gender-diverse teams can enhance safety, consider working with a licensed provider that values inclusive security staffing. https://www.youtube.com/embed/QfndnxEGQgw?si=zwgYXFjQVBNkVTXQ

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Private Security Companies in the UK: What to Look For & How to Choose

With crime rates fluctuating and safety concerns growing, more people and businesses across the UK are turning to private security companies for protection. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or event organiser, hiring the right security firm can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what private security companies offer, how to choose the right one, and why Eagle Security Protection (ESP) is trusted across Birmingham and beyond. Why Are Private Security Services in High Demand? From burglaries and anti-social behaviour to vandalism and commercial theft, the need for reliable private security services has never been greater. Businesses in high-traffic areas, residential neighbourhoods, and construction sites are increasingly hiring security firms to protect their people and property. Types of Private Security Companies and Agencies The terms security companies, agencies, and firms are often used interchangeably, but they all refer to organisations that offer private security for hire. Some operate nationally, while others — like ESP — focus on providing highly localised, community-based protection. Who Needs Private Security? What Services Do Private Security Companies Provide? A trustworthy private security company offers a wide range of services to match your specific needs. Here’s what to look for: Core Security Services Specialist Services At ESP, we tailor our private security services for both commercial and residential clients across the West Midlands. Explore our full list of services → How to Choose the Right Private Security Firm in the UK Not all security companies are created equal. Here’s a simple checklist to help you hire a reliable firm: ✅ 1. Check for SIA Licensing Every professional private security company must be licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Always ask for proof of active licensing. ✅ 2. Look at Reviews and Reputation Search for testimonials, online reviews, or case studies. Companies like ESP proudly showcase real client feedback. ✅ 3. Understand the Services They Offer Can they handle your unique needs, whether it’s for residential security or executive protection? Do they offer scalable services? ✅ 4. Ask About Experience Do they have a track record in your sector? For example, ESP has protected retail shops, nightclubs, warehouses, and housing estates. ✅ 5. Evaluate Their Communication and Tech A good security agency uses reporting tools, tracking systems, and offers regular updates to clients. Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring a Security Company Protecting your property or business is not an area where you want to cut corners. Choose wisely. Why Choose ESP – A Trusted Private Security Company in Birmingham Eagle Security Protection (ESP) is an established security firm based in Birmingham, offering professional and licensed private security services across the region. With SIA-trained guards, 24/7 coverage, and fast response times, ESP serves: Looking for private security for hire? ESP is your local partner in safety. Visit our homepage to learn more → Conclusion: Peace of Mind Starts With Choosing the Right Firm Hiring a private security company is an important decision. With the right partner, you can rest easy knowing your people and property are in safe hands. Whether you need short-term coverage or a long-term solution, use this guide to find a firm you can trust. ✅ Looking to hire trusted security professionals in the UK? ESP offers licensed, insured, and highly trained private security officers for hire.👉 Get your personalised quote today

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Rising Terror Threats in the UK: Why Awareness Training Matters More Than Ever

In 2024, the UK experienced a troubling milestone: 248 arrests for terrorism-related offences, the highest number since 2019, according to the Home Office.  As terrorist threats become more sophisticated and persistent, public anxiety is understandably on the rise. But experts warn that panic is not the answer.  Instead, they advocate for community-based awareness training to help everyday citizens stay vigilant, informed, and safe. Here’s a brief look at the growing importance of community vigilance in the face of rising terror threats: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4Vk-RHHxZE&t=4s Understanding the Numbers According to official Home Office data, the surge in terrorism-related arrests highlights a growing concern for national security. While not all arrests lead to convictions, the figures reflect the intensified focus on prevention, particularly in the face of evolving threats like lone-wolf attackers, online radicalization, and international conflicts spilling over into domestic spaces. This uptick has put both the government and private security firms on high alert — and for good reason. Threats are no longer limited to high-profile targets; local communities are increasingly at risk. The Real Danger: Public Panic While these statistics understandably raise concern, security experts caution against reacting with fear. Panic can lead to misinformation, prejudice, and even greater vulnerability. It may also overwhelm emergency services and divert attention from real threats. Instead, the emphasis must shift toward education, preparedness, and community cooperation — which is where awareness training comes into play. What is Awareness Training, and Why is it Vital? Awareness training equips individuals with the skills to: Recognize suspicious behavior or unattended objects Report concerns effectively without causing unnecessary alarm Respond appropriately in the event of an incident It’s not about turning civilians into law enforcement agents. Rather, it’s about building a resilient, informed public that can assist, not hinder, in times of crisis. Incorporating elements from counter-terrorism initiatives like the UK’s “ACT Awareness” program, this training is already being adopted by schools, transport hubs, and private businesses. Security experts stress that even a few hours of training can make a critical difference. Expert Voices on the Front Lines Security firms like Eagle Security Protection Ltd in Birmingham are seeing a spike in inquiries from businesses seeking not just guards, but guidance. “The goal isn’t just physical protection,” one spokesperson explains. “It’s about helping communities feel prepared without feeling afraid.” Police services across the UK echo the sentiment, urging citizens to stay alert but not alarmed. How You Can Take Action You don’t need to be in law enforcement to contribute to national security. Here are a few steps anyone can take: Enroll in free awareness training offered online or through local councils Stay informed by following official updates from the Home Office or Counter Terrorism Policing Encourage open, inclusive dialogue in your community to combat prejudice and fear Report suspicious activity — better safe than sorry Conclusion: Replace Panic with Preparedness The rise in terrorism-related arrests in the UK is a sobering reminder of the threats we face — but it’s also a call to action. Rather than letting fear dominate the narrative, we must focus on empowerment through knowledge and cooperation. With the right awareness training, every citizen can play a role in keeping our communities secure. Because in the face of uncertainty, calm vigilance is our strongest defence.

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Are criminals using COVID masks to hide identity?

Numerous reports are revealing an increase in suspects using surgical or medical COVID masks to hide identity. Many criminals are using medical masks to hide behind as they commit crimes in the UK. A spokesman from a security company in the West Midlands, spoke with us earlier this week. They commented that an increasing number of break-ins and opportunist crimes are being committed by people wearing masks to protect them from COVID.  Pre-Covid, if individuals entered certain buildings or walked the streets wearing masks, they would likely be challenged by Police or security guards in the UK. This all changed when mask wearing became compulsory in the UK. For years, masks have been used to hide people’s identities when they commit a crime. However, many opportunistic criminals were caught due to them not concealing their faces. CCTV usually captured these suspects in the act and they were easily identified. Times have changed and it’s commonplace now to see people in the street, in shops and even in banks wearing masks. According to The Guardian, a civilian supervisor at Kent police’s identification suite said, “we are seeing an increase in reports of suspects wearing masks.” The Nottingham Post reported that thieves wearing protective Covid-19 masks stole a car from a drive while the man was unloading his shopping. This emphasises the need for security services in Birmingham and the surrounding areas.  It’s Not Just a UK Problem These issues are not just limited to the UK. US media outlets have recently reported on a couple on a robbery spree while disguised in surgical masks. This is just one of several reports across the US. The police chief of Frackville in Pennsylvania said criminals are smart and this is a perfect opportunity for them to conceal themselves and blend right in. It is also making it much more difficult for suspects to be identified. One bank employee in Pakistan said, “earlier the bandanna or mask was a dicey proposition for criminals. Nowadays it is normal but scary too. We can’t distinguish between customers and criminals.” Another problem is the prevalence of latex glove-wearing. FBI Special Agent Lisa McNamara was reported in the WTTW News as saying, “In the past, if you did a search warrant and you found surgical masks, that would be highly indicative of something suspicious. Now everybody has masks or latex gloves.” The latex gloves people are wearing to protect themselves from the virus mean fewer fingerprints at crime scenes. According to Los Angeles Police Department data, from Jan 1 to Oct 31 2020 there were 1,164 criminal incidents in which a suspect was wearing a mask. During the same time period the year before there were just 200 reports! What’s the Solution? The company is approved within the Approved Contractor Scheme for the provision of Security Guarding and Keyholding. Although many countries have now stopped compulsory mask-wearing it seems they may be here for years to come. Many still choose to wear their masks inside buildings and where there are crowds. Some even wear them when there is no one around! Police aren’t able to stop people from wearing them in public or stop someone who is wearing one. In March, charity leaders reported that gang members were using masks to disguise themselves as teenagers while selling drugs. The founder of Safety Box charity in the UK told the Daily Telegraph: “To police, they look just like a young person being cautious instead of someone assumed to be selling drugs.” There seems to be no solution at hand. One solution that has been put forward is to allow security guards in Birmingham and other areas to be given the power to ask people to remove masks as they enter shops, so their faces can be caught on camera. This ability to avoid being recognised by CCTV and identified by witnesses is causing an increasing problem. Security staff are no longer suspicious if people enter commercial premises with their faces covered. This anonymity allows potential offenders to avoid detection by CCTV or witness testimony. If you are concerned about theft from your business or person or other crimes in the West Midlands area then call us on 0121 240 8586. Eagle Security Protection is an SIA accredited Security Company in Birmingham. We supply security services such as facility management security and construction site security in Coventry, Dudley, Wolverhampton, Solihull and many more areas. With nearly 10 years experience in the security sector we guarantee we can provide what you need. 

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How can manned guarding benefit you immediately?

What are the benefits of manned guarding? There are many security services available but probably the best deterrent is manned guarding. Eagle Security Protection provide security guards across the West Midlands. SIA qualified manned guards are the most effective deterrent against theft and vandalism. Your property or business is an ongoing concern, especially with the times we’re living in with prices soaring. Crime is steadily on the increase and many business owners are looking for adding security for their properties. Eagle Security Protection pride ourselves on great customer service and an honest, reliable manned guarding service in Birmingham and the West Midlands. Advantages of manned guarding services in Birmingham? There are many advantages that manned guarding in Birmingham can bring to your business. Here are just a few: Manned guards act as an effective deterrent. CCTV is a very popular method of security nowadays. Its relatively cheap to install and seems cost-effective. The problem is that in the UK the police are understaffed. A 2019 report from the BBC News stated police forces in England & Wales lost 21,732 officers between March 2010 and March 2018. Annual figures show this was the lowest number of police officers since 1981. These cuts came about as an attempt by the Conservative government to reduce the deficit. The fallout of this has been a huge increase in violent crimes, criminal damage and arson. Gone are the days when you used to see neighbourhood bobbies patrolling. If they saw some would be vandals, a clip round the ear would be enough to get rid of them. Increase in criminal damage and arsonThe recent escalation in criminal damage, arson and property crime in the UK has led to an increasing number of businesses in and around Birmingham hiring security guards. Manned guards can respond quickly to thefts or criminal damage. They don’t have to wait for the police to arrive or CCTV operators to send out a mobile unit. This swift action can greatly reduces the risk of theft or criminal damage to your property. Construction site security and Facility management security in Birmingham has always been an effective deterrent against crime. Eagle Security Protection have successfully protected many businesses in and around the West Midlands for nearly 10 years. If you would like to know more about our manned guard services in Birmingham then call us on 01212 408 586 for a free quote. Manned guards can provide customers with a reassuring presence.  There is nothing more reassuring than seeing a real person guarding a premises. Many people have lost faith in CCTV and most know that CCTV cameras picture quality is often far from god enough. Being greeted by friendly security personnel can help your customers/guests feel safe and secure. Sadly, the news is full of stories about violent attacks in supermarkets and other premises. Many people are starting to fear everyday activities outside the house. Having a security guard in your Birmingham business can help your customers or clients to feel more secure when visiting your premises. Puts your employees at ease.  Attacks and assaults on workers is also on the increase in the UK.  Sky News reported in April 2022 that more than 72,000 were assaulted in the past four years. A very small percentage were actually reported to the police. It states the number of attacks is probably higher as only half of the NHS trust responded to their questionnaire. A recent House of Commons report stated that the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) found that 89% of individuals working in local shops had experienced some form of abuse. Shockingly, it reported that in 2019/2020 there were an average of 11 violent incidents every hour! There are many more reports out there but we don’t want to depress you. How can on-site manned guards help?An on-site security guard helps your staff to be able to feel secure in their workplace. This helps them to focus on their work and increases productivity. Our security guards in the West Midlands are all screened in accordance with British Standard BS7858 and are SIA licensed. They are all fully qualified and undergo ongoing training. They work closely with existing staff members in order to meet your business’ requirements. Prevent unauthorized access.  Vandals and thieves are major problems for businesses in Birmingham and the West Midlands. As mentioned earlier, incidents or arson and theft from properties are on the increase. The presence of a manned guard is the best way to deter potential intruders to your facility or property. Construction site security in Birmingham saves local businesses hundreds of thousands each year. During the COVID lockdown there was a massive increase in squatters in commercial properties in the UK.  This is partly due to residential squatting being a crime, whereas commercial squatting is not. Also, the change in immigration rules that makes one night of rough sleeping grounds for deportation has led to more people becoming squatters, rather than admit to being homeless. Homeless charities data has shown that almost one-third of non-UK nationals are afraid to ask for help because they would have to declare their homeless status. Birmingham & West Midlands squatter preventionManned guarding and regular mobile patrols can prevent people from squatting in unoccupied property.If you’re interested in contracting security services in Birmingham and the West Midlands then contact ESP today on 01212 408 586.

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Birmingham Construction Site Theft Increase

With a spate of recent construction site thefts across Birmingham, construction site security in the West Midlands has never been so necessary. Thieves recently targeted a Codsall new build site and stole thousands of pounds worth of items. According to Birmingham Mail, the Miller Homes site in Codsall near Wolverhampton was broken into on Feb 3rd 2022. Multiple containers were broken into and a number of items were stolen.  This is just one of many such construction site thefts in the Birmingham area this year. With petrol prices soaring, another recent trend has been to break into building sites and steal fuel from construction machines. One of these incidents occurred near Coventry where thieves broke into the construction site and drained all the machines of fuel. On top of the money lost from the fuel, a days work was lost as the machines couldn’t run without fuel.  Fuel crisis hitting the UK With fuel prices going crazy, people have been panic buying. Dr Annie Turner from Coventry University says, “Panic buying or the urgent gathering of resources is often a reaction to an emergency event or situation, and one built from a pervading fear of what is happening in the environment.” Most people hadn’t recovered from the impact of the pandemic lockdown, job cuts and general problems when the Ukraine war happened. This has caused a further escalation in gas prices and uncertainty.  As if all that wasn’t enough; eco-activists have caused chaos down South leading to 1,200 fuel pumps closing! The Daily Mail reports that one in three petrol stations in the South are closed after mobs cause 10 days of chaos at oil terminals.  The eco protestors have been locking themselves to pipes across the South of the country. The mass protests have led up to 800 arrests and are putting further strain on local police services. Demonstrators have blocked major bridges as part of their protests as well. Fuel thefts from construction sites in Birmingham Just Stop Oil activists in Birmingham Birmingham has experienced further disruption to petrol supplies after Just Stop Oil activists dug a tunnel under a key tanker route to the BP Kingsbury Terminal in Warwickshire. Further to this incident, protestors staged a blockade at the Esso fuel terminal in Tyburn, Birmingham.  Sixty-eight people were arrested at the Warwickshire fuel terminal and a further thirteen at the Tyburn fuel site in April 2022. The managing director of Halso Fuels in Lichfield, Staffordshire said the protests had caused major delays to business. The Just Stop Oil activists are demanding an end to the UK government’s oil and gas production expansion. They released a statement claiming, “Ordinary people can no longer afford oil and gas, it’s time to Just Stop Oil. It’s funding war and killing people in the global South, while destroying the future for young people everywhere.” Demonstrations are expected to carry on across the country over the next few days. Fuel thefts on the increase across the West Midlands Police have warned of an increase in ‘bilking’ (where people fill their tanks with fuel and drive off) across Staffordshire. The BBC states that more than 160 incidents have been reported between March and April.  On the increase as well are incidents of fuel being stolen from parked cars. Thieves are drilling holes in tanks and draining the fuel out. In another incident, a thief stole almost £3,000 worth of fuel from petrol stations across Staffordshire and the West Midlands. He used a stolen card to steal the diesel.  All these incidents are just signs of the times we’re living in and sadly things are going to get worse. Security in Birmingham has never been more crucial. If you would like to know more about a five-star Security Company in Birmingham then contact Eagle Security Protection on 0121 240 8586 today.

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Innovative Security Systems in Birmingham

Innovative Construction Site Security System Construction sites in the West Midlands and across the UK are easy targets. The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) reported a 50% increase in construction site crime last year. This surge happened after the Coronavirus lockdown. “Effective construction site security has never been so crucial”, says Sabia Kauser, owner of Eagle Security Protection, a security firm in Birmingham. “The construction industry is being urged to tighten security measures to defend construction sites from opportunistic thieves”, according to PBC Today.  Let’s take a look at some innovative construction site security systems. Padlocks and chains just aren’t enough anymore. Innovations in Security Gone are the days of padlocks and chains. Years ago, a good link fence was enough to deter thieves from building sites. Nowadays, thieves have become more advanced and determined. Let’s look at some innovative ways to keep thieves and intruders out of your construction site.  No Thru™ Temporary FencingNo Thru Fencing is an Australian-based company offering a secure temporary fencing solution. It has a revolutionary new interlocking system. Normal temporary fencing can be easily opened with a simple tool, such as a wrench, anywhere along its perimeter. No Thru has a panel key and keyhole that prevent the panel from being lifted out. The system allows you to define your access points. This stops the need for monitoring the whole fence perimeter. Instead, only the access point needs to be monitored by a security guard or CCTV. Unfortunately, No Thru temporary fencing is only available in Australia at the moment, but we have spoken with the designer, and he is looking to expand into the UK market soon. Watch this space – when it is launched in the UK, we will let you know.  Drone TechnologyDrones are fast becoming household items, kids (and big kids) play toys. Recent years have seen them used in filmmaking and photography. Other uses have been the military, Police, and the Security Industry. When coupled with CCTV, drones can be an excellent and cost-effective way to monitor construction sites and other facilities. Drones can cover much larger areas in a minimal amount of time. They can be manually controlled to cover set areas or follow pre-programmed paths for regular and routine monitoring. If a trespasser is seen on your property, the drone can take live footage of the intruder, which can be used in court later. They are also a good deterrent as intruders or thieves are more likely to worry about a manually controlled drone than they are about grainy CCTV coverage. One way drones can save money is to assess whether risks are real or false alarms. This negates the need for a manned guard in Birmingham or the UK to attend a call-out unless necessary. Valuable manpower and resources can be used elsewhere or savings made on man-hours.  Cloud TechnologyCloud technology is used extensively in all industries. The IT and Cybersecurity industry were the first to implement it, but other security sectors are following suit. Cloud technology can be utilised by construction security firms to manage their security infrastructure. Cloud-based services offer low-priced storage, making them perfect for capturing and storing CCTV footage. A cloud-based security system is easier to maintain and upgrade. It also allows data to be shared across different systems and different locations. This can speed up processes and make security and facility managers’ lives easier. Drone Security in Birmingham Site planning & safety Technological innovations are expanding when it comes to health & safety and construction site security. Drones are increasingly being used for BIM (Building Information Modelling). Drones are being used to take measurements to accurately understand where to lay foundations and see where property lines end. They can also be used to measure the amount of cut and fill needed to create a level foundation.  Drones are being used to create 3D models of site layouts. These 3D models can be used to help site managers determine where to place equipment, materials, and other resources safely. This method is quickly overtaking old-fashioned aerial surveys and saves time and money for site managers and planners.  Security Company in Birmingham The bottom line CCTV monitored by guards is still effective, but human error (or snoring on the job ) has led to decreased effectiveness. Furthermore, many thieves now case a site before they strike and spray over the camera lenses or smash them, rendering them useless.  Drones are fast becoming the way forward as a cost-effective, modern-day deterrent against building site crime. If you would like to know more about an innovative security firm in Birmingham or the West Midlands, then contact one of our team on 0121 240 8586 or WhatsApp 07804 911 061 today. 

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Can I start my own Security Company?

Can I start my own Security Company? The easy answer to that is yes! However, other questions need to be asked to give a definitive answer. Such as, why do you want to start your own security company? Why will your security firm be different to anyone else\’s? What security need is there in your area? What type of security cover will you provide? Asking these types of questions will give you a clearer mind-set and help you to achieve your goal.    Why do you want to start your own security company? This is one of the fundamental questions to ask yourself. At the moment, the security industry in the UK is saturated and many companies are struggling to find work. This is why many security companies in the UK in big cities such as Manchester, London and Birmingham are subcontracting security services. A good start is to talk with people who have security needs and ask them what their current provider does that makes them stand out. Or why they chose their current security provider. Ask them if they could, how they would improve the service their security company provides. This will give you an idea of what you need to be aiming for.  Another helpful tip is to ask another security company with who you won\’t be in competition with. An example is Eagle Security Protection who are a security company in Birmingham. They are a small family-based security firm and the owner Sabia would be happy to answer any questions you have. That is, as long as you intend to open your security company far, far away from the West Midlands! What security need is there in your area? Different areas have different security needs. During the initial wave of the Coronavirus pandemic, there was a significant decrease in crime. According to Police figures, burglaries were down 22% alone in 2020 as compared to 2019. However, the lifting of restrictions has seen a massive increase in every type of crime. According to Startups, between April and July 2021 burglaries, robberies, and violent crime all shot back up. The Office for National Statistics reported a 14% increase in total crime, driven by a 47% increase in fraud and computer misuse for the year ending September 2021 compared with the pre-coronavirus year ending September 2019. This could indicate a need for more cybersecurity firms. Determining the specific security need in your area will help you to focus your resources. You can find relevant information about crime statistics in your chosen locality on the Police.uk website. Once you\’ve found your security niche, check what competition you have in that field and area. This will enable you to see if your startup is feasible or if you need to look in another direction.  How do I start my own security company? There are many different areas of security such as private security, cybersecurity and security consultancy. For this article, we will focus on private security. Usually, start-up companies have a limited budget so it\’s good to focus on the type of security cover you can realistically offer. Most private security companies such as Eagle Security Protection in the West Midlands offer security services such as: Construction site security Manned guarding Facilities management security Key holding response Mobile patrols Event security Residential security Warehouse security Experience is key when it comes to the security profession. It\’s no surprise that during the late 80\’s and 90\’s (and even previous decades) there were a lot of security firms started and run by local gangsters. These guys had inside knowledge and experience of what was needed to run doors, bodyguard and provide additional security services. Not to mention they had fearsome reputations and no one would mess with them! Choosing a security service you have experience in will ensure it\’s successful as you will know what\’s required.  Licenses & Regulations The security industry is littered with regulations and licensing requirements. This has become even stricter due to the insurgence of dodgy security firms that have sprung up recently. Here is a checklist to help you get started. Obtain SIA licenses To run any private security business in the UK you require licensing from the (SIA) Security Industry Authority. You will need a license for each specific activity your security business will cover.  Prior to applying for your license, you will need to prove you are suitably qualified in the area of security. This is done by acquiring an SIA approved qualification by completing a training course.  In addition, any security staff you employ will also need to hold relevant SIA licenses. As an employer, it is your responsibility to ensure your staff are qualified and licensed before sending them to a job. Failure to do so will lead to big fines and damage to your reputation. If you\’re looking for an SIA licensed security company in the West Midlands, then look no further than Eagle Security Protection.   Insurance It is essential to have the appropriate insurance to comply with statutory requirements. It also covers your business against anything that goes wrong and shows you are a credible security firm.  Most security companies have public liability insurance, professional indemnity insurance and contractual liability insurance. If you intend to hire staff then employer\’s liability insurance is also legally required.    Certified & accredited To run  a security firm in Birmingham, or any other city in the UK you need to meet quality standards.  Most high-profile security companies make sure their security guards are screened in accordance with British Standard BS:7858. Other accreditations that are common for legit security firms include:  ISO9001 ISO 14001 CHAS (the Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) SIA (Approved Contractor Scheme) Constructionline SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement) Website & Promotion A professional website is necessary nowadays for any company to be taken seriously. This offers a place where potential clients can read about your security services and also find out about your firm. Unless you know how to build a

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Has COVID-19 affected FM Security in Birmingham?

Has COVID-19 affected FM Security? The simple answer is a massive yes! One of the most important roles of a facility manager is to make sure staff feel safe in the work environment. A facility manager plays a crucial role in securing buildings to reduce workplace violence and crime. During the pandemic, organisations had to reorganise themselves in a short period which bought about change. Unfortunately, many of us do not like change. Security and safety have become a growing issue for FM and that’s where consulting with experts in Birmingham FM Security can help. Increase security in your facility How can you increase FM security in your facility? The pandemic saw a huge amount of facilities and properties closed across the West Midlands. This led to an increase in vandalism and theft. Many companies couldn’t afford to secure their premises due to loss of income. Here are some security features you can use to enhance the security of your properties. Security alarm systems, including door and window alarms and motion sensors Security doors fitted with good quality deadbolts and locks, in particular in areas that are out of the public eye CCTV monitoring system, monitored by a qualified security guard Drones are becoming more widely used and when operated by professionals can be a highly effective monitoring system Key card entry system at all entry points External lighting on all access and exit points of the building and car parks Recently FM has seen how critical a good visitor management system is. It can help reduce violence in the workplace by screening who enters your facilities. Security lists can be checked to prevent disgruntled employees and previous troublemakers. The pandemic also brought to our attention the need to track visitors to prevent the spread of disease and comply with governmental health and safety standards. One of the most effective ways you can secure your facility is to employ manned guards. A physical presence is a sure deterrent for much of the vandalism and crime we have seen escalate in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic. Increasing need for FM security guards in Birmingham Huge demand for Birmingham FM security guards According to CTV News, ‘The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred an enormous demand for security guards.’ Security guards in Birmingham and the West Midlands have seen a shift in their role over the past year or so. It is becoming the new normal for security guards to check the temperature of people entering facilities. In addition, many have faced an increase in violence due to the extra stress placed on people by the Coronavirus pandemic. Eagle Security Protection Ltd is a West Midlands FM Security company with a reputation for great customer service. Operating security services in and around Birmingham in areas such as Dudley, Wolverhampton, Sutton Coldfield, Coventry, Solihull and Walsall for nearly 10 years. All of our Security Guards and staff are SIA licensed and screened in accordance with British Standard BS7858. If you need security cover for logistics depots, warehouses, construction sites, distribution centres, corporate buildings, business parks or similar then contact us today on 0121 240 8586 for a free quote. Alternatively, you can fill out our enquiry form on our website at www.eaglesecurityprotection.co.uk Sanitisation and the ‘new normal’ How has facility management adapted during Covid-19? Many businesses had to adapt during the pandemic. Working from home and remote working became a way of life. One managing director commented that ‘COVID-19 has brought with it many challenges, from empty properties … and the need for new security measures.’ A large number of businesses had to shut their doors during the first lockdown. Investments in CCTV, alarm systems, shutters and security measures increased. The fear for many is that another lockdown can come much more suddenly than the first. That is why many facility managers are making Birmingham FM security a top priority. Good security is essential to ensure the safety of buildings and their contents during extended closure periods. Sanitisation has played an important part in reducing the risk to staff as companies have slowly opened their doors. Facilities with high levels of traffic are especially at risk. Cleaning schedules have never been so rigid and disciplined. Sanitation stations are part of the new normal, even young children can be seen sanitising their hands without parental help. Adapting to change in facilities management Moving forward We are still facing significant uncertainty regarding Covid-19. With an increasing number of variants emerging, many countries are already preparing for another lockdown. FM needs to be vigilant regarding the security and safety of their employees and establish best practices. We need to look forward with a clear plan in mind. Preparation is the key. Many were caught short with the first lockdown but with hindsight, we can be ready for the next one. Facility managers should see this crisis as an opportunity to support their organisations more thoroughly. Many companies realised the importance of the FM role much more during the pandemic. Many facility managers were much more heavily involved in the strategic operations of the organisation. Consultants at Deloitte said, ‘we see the role of the facility manager becoming more and more prominent and even shifting from an operational level to a strategic level.’ This shift has added extra pressure for many and they lack the resources and expertise to facilitate the post-covid changes. Eagle Security Protection Ltd has been leading West Midlands Facility Management Security for nearly 10 years. We know the game inside out. We have procured a plethora of contacts in and around Birmingham and can help your organisation to implement a long-term solution for future pandemics. Give one of our friendly team a call today on 0121 240 8586 for a non-obligatory FREE quote.             

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