The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals

The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals (WCoSP) is the 108th Livery Company of the City of London. Established in 1999 as the Guild of Security Professionals, it was granted full livery status in 2008 and received a Royal Charter from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2010. The Company serves as a non-profit membership organisation dedicated to supporting and advancing the security profession.

WCoSP aims to foster a culture that upholds the principles protecting people, property, and liberty. Its mission encompasses raising standards of excellence through education and fellowship, furthering charitable endeavours, and supporting the Lord Mayor and the City of London Livery. The Company’s motto, “Res Homines Libertates,” translates to “Property, People, and Liberty,” reflecting its commitment to these core values.

Membership is drawn from a broad spectrum of the security industry, including professionals from industrial and retail sectors, serving and retired members of the police and armed services, security consultants, academics, heads of corporate security, investigators, and electronic surveillance experts. This diverse membership facilitates networking, professional development, and the sharing of best practices within the security community.

The WCoSP Charitable Trust, established in 2001, plays a pivotal role in the Company’s philanthropic activities. It provides education and health services to members of the security profession and supports various charitable initiatives related to the protection of people and property.

Key initiatives include overseeing the Chartered Security Professional certification, recognising individuals who demonstrate strategic and operational excellence in security; the Security Benevolent Fund, offering assistance to security professionals facing mental or physical challenges; and administering awards such as the Sheriffs’ Award for Bravery, honouring significant contributions to safeguarding people, property, or liberty.

For more information, please visit their official website.

Visit: https://wcosp.org/

 

Security Industry Regulatory Agency

The Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) is a government entity established by Decree No. 12 of 2016 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai. SIRA’s primary mission is to regulate and oversee the private security sector in Dubai, ensuring the highest standards of safety and professionalism in security services, systems, and personnel.

Operating under the Government of Dubai, SIRA is responsible for licensing and certifying security companies and professionals, including security guards, CCTV operators, and alarm system technicians. The agency also approves and inspects security equipment and systems to ensure compliance with established standards. Through these measures, SIRA aims to enhance public safety and security across the emirate.

SIRA’s regulatory framework is designed to adapt to technological advancements and emerging security challenges, promoting innovation while maintaining rigorous safety standards. By fostering a secure environment, SIRA contributes to Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s safest cities.

Visit: https://www.sira.gov.ae/en/home.aspx

 

Security Industry Authority

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the statutory regulator for the private security industry in the United Kingdom. Established under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 and operating as a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Home Office, the SIA’s primary responsibilities encompass the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities within the private security sector and the management of the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS).

Core Functions:

  • Licensing of Individuals: The SIA mandates that individuals performing specific security roles—such as door supervisors, security guards, CCTV operators, close protection operatives, and cash and valuables in transit personnel—obtain a licence. This process involves comprehensive identity verification and criminal record checks to ensure public safety and professional integrity.

  • Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS): The ACS is a voluntary quality assurance programme that evaluates private security companies against rigorous performance standards. Organisations that meet these criteria are awarded ‘Approved Contractor’ status, signifying their commitment to high operational standards and ethical practices.

  • Regulatory Oversight and Enforcement: The SIA conducts investigations and enforcement actions to uphold compliance within the industry. This includes addressing issues such as unlicensed activity, fraud, and exploitation, thereby maintaining the integrity of the security sector.

  • Public Awareness and Guidance: Through its official channels, the SIA provides essential information to both industry professionals and the public. This includes guidance on licensing requirements, training standards, and the legal obligations of security personnel and employers.

Governance and Leadership:

The SIA operates under the strategic direction of a Board, with appointments made by the Home Secretary. The organisation is led by a Chief Executive and is accountable to the Home Office, ensuring alignment with national security objectives and public safety priorities.

For more detailed information or to access services such as licence applications, renewals, or to verify the status of a security operative, please visit the official SIA website below.

 

Visit: https://services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/

 

Ministry of Defence

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is a central department of the UK Government, responsible for formulating and implementing defence policy, overseeing the armed forces, and ensuring national security. Established in its current form in 1964, the MOD integrates the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force under a unified command structure. The department’s primary objectives are to defend the United Kingdom and its interests, deter threats, and promote international peace and stability. It manages defence procurement, strategic defence planning, and military operations, and is supported by 25 agencies and public bodies.

The MOD is led by the Secretary of State for Defence, supported by the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Permanent Secretary. In 2025, the MOD underwent significant reforms to enhance military readiness and streamline operations. These changes included the establishment of a new military strategy headquarters, granting the Chief of the Defence Staff increased authority over the armed forces, and the creation of a national armaments director to oversee procurement and reinforce defence supply chains. These initiatives aim to improve decision-making, reduce waste, and ensure the UK’s military capabilities are responsive to evolving global threats.

The MOD’s responsibilities encompass a broad range of activities, including defence policy development, military operations, intelligence coordination, and international defence partnerships. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the UK’s defence strategy and maintaining the operational effectiveness of the armed forces.

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-defence

 

Cabinet Office

The Cabinet Office is a ministerial department at the centre of HM Government, tasked with supporting the Prime Minister and enabling collective decision-making across all government departments. It houses the Cabinet Secretariat and advises on policy coordination, national security, and crisis response. The department also drives constitutional reform, public service transformation, civil‑service capability-building, procurement oversight, digital innovation, and infrastructure delivery.

Through units such as the Civil Contingencies Secretariat, Joint Intelligence Committee, Crown Commercial Service, and Infrastructure and Projects Authority, it leads cross-government reform and operational excellence. With its central role in governance, the Cabinet Office underpins the integrity, resilience, and effectiveness of government in the UK.

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/cabinet-office

 

Resilience First

Resilience First is the world’s largest business network setting the standard for resilience leadership in the private sector for a safe, secure, and sustainable future. It serves as a platform for businesses to adapt, respond, and innovate in the face of converging crises and a rapidly changing world by facilitating collaboration and knowledge-sharing, and co-creating solutions.

Resilience First works with more than 600 members around the world to embed resilience across all facets of the private sector and support businesses in navigating and thriving in today’s increasingly complex and uncertain landscape. By fostering a collaborative approach, Resilience First aims to strengthen the resilience of its members and contribute to the overall resilience of society.

Resilience First originally spun out of London First (now BusinessLDN) in April 2018 and is now a part of Resilience Rising – a platform for collective impact that brings together global and local mission-driven organisations, initiatives, and other entities to work in partnership and achieve systemic resilience to the world’s most pressing challenges.

We specialise in areas critical to organisational resilience, such as the climate crisis, global security, people and leadership, policy, and governance.

Our Model

In today’s fast-paced, interconnected and interdependent world, unexpected challenges can arise at any moment. That’s why it’s crucial for businesses to be prepared, adaptable, and collaborative.

At Resilience First, we’re empowering over 600 businesses in 150 countries, harnessing the potential of more than 10 million employees worldwide. With us, you can unlock the insights, resources and tools to equip your organisation with the resilience it needs. Our membership model comes in two forms, Member and Premium Member. To learn more and discover the benefits, click here.

5 Reasons to join Resilience First

  1. Join a growing global community of business innovators and leading-edge practitioners to build your organisation’s resilience in our rapidly changing world
  2. Gain access to the tools, resources, and key industry insights your business needs to become a leader on organisational resilience
  3. Boost your risk management strategies to survive disruptions whilst innovating and leaning into shifts and turning them into opportunities
  4. Become a visible changemaker by taking the lead in global campaigns and initiatives to build the wider business community’s resilience to shocks and stresses
  5. Influence systems change through radical collaboration, ultimately contributing to sustainable economic prosperity and societal well-being

In today’s fast-paced, interconnected and interdependent landscape, unexpected challenges can arise at any moment. That’s why it’s crucial for businesses to be prepared, adaptable, and collaborative as they find new ways to survive and thrive in our changing world.

Our global community of pioneers and practitioners are dedicated to building responsible and resilient businesses. Resilience First membership helps you access the latest global insights and risk trends, resources, and tools you need to build organisational resilience and be prepared for anything that comes your way.

By becoming part of our global network, you’ll gain access to exclusive resources, cutting-edge insights, and networking opportunities that will enhance your organisation’s ability to respond to global shocks, cyber threats, the climate crisis, and more.

You can read the latest from Resilience First HERE

Security Journal UK

Security Journal UK is a dedicated publication providing news, analysis, and expert insights for professionals across the UK’s security sector. Covering physical security, cyber security, counter-terrorism, and industry innovation, the journal delivers interviews, thought leadership, and product updates relevant to security installers, consultants, and end users.

With a focus on current trends and emerging technologies, Security Journal UK helps readers stay informed about best practices and regulatory developments. Published in both digital and print formats, it serves as a valuable resource for organisations seeking to enhance security operations and strategy across commercial, governmental, and public environments.

Visit: https://securityjournaluk.com/

International Professional Security Association (IPSA)

The International Professional Security Association (IPSA) is the UK’s longest‑established trade body serving the security and fire systems sector. Founded in the 1950s, it supports frontline workers—such as security officers, CCTV and access control installers, fire technicians, dog handlers, and close protection officers—by providing free membership, professional recognition, training, and trade advocacy.

IPSA members earn post‑nominal M.IPSA and benefit from networking, industry guidance, technical courses, and regulatory support. The association promotes best practice, ethics, and industry standards, and offers app‑based tools and resources to support installers and officers in delivering high-quality, compliant services across the UK.

Visit: https://www.ipsa.org.uk/

 

Security Matters

Security Matters Magazine is a UK-based publication dedicated to providing comprehensive coverage of the security and risk management sectors. It offers in-depth articles, expert commentary, and the latest industry news, focusing on topics such as legislation, best practices, security technology, and strategic developments.

The magazine reaches a wide audience of security professionals through various platforms, including print, online, and email. Security Matters Magazine also provides previews of key industry events and offers resources like webinars, podcasts, and white papers to support professional development and keep readers informed about the evolving security landscape, and, last but certainly not least, features a regular ‘The Institute’s View’ section from leading experts within The Security Institute. 

Visit: https://securitymattersmagazine.com/

Professional Security Magazine

Professional Security magazine is the UK’s leading trade publication for the private security industry, with a monthly print circulation of around 10,000 and a wide digital reach. It serves a broad audience including security consultants, installers, manufacturers, distributors, and end users, offering up-to-date news, case studies, technical reviews, and product coverage.

The magazine features the industry’s largest supplier directory and a highly regarded recruitment section. It also produces the Security Twenty event series and Women in Security Awards, providing platforms for networking and knowledge exchange. Professional Security supports professional development and industry engagement across the British security sector.

Visit: https://professionalsecurity.co.uk/

 

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