The Financial Times recently highlighted the growing role of private security in tackling the rise of crime across the UK. With retail theft in London up 25% in 2024, vehicle thefts surpassing 35,000 annually, and moped-enabled robberies becoming more frequent, there’s no denying the pressure on businesses and communities. Meanwhile, police forces are stretched thin, struggling to meet the demands of a rising tide of criminal activity.
This growing challenge reminds us of what has happened in San Francisco, where unchecked retail theft has devastated communities. Major retailers have closed their doors, leaving parts of the city hollowed out and law enforcement overwhelmed. The UK must act now to prevent similar consequences—and the private security sector can play a crucial role in the solution.
The Rise of Private Security in the UK
The UK’s private security workforce, which employs over 300,000 people, outnumbers police officers more than two to one. As highlighted in the FT, companies like Mitie are already working to bridge the gap in frontline policing by engaging in “complementary policing” efforts. This approach highlights how private security supports UK police forces, extending their reach and providing immediate support as the government recruits and trains 13,000 additional neighbourhood officers—a process that could take up to 18 months. Private security can protect businesses, deter crime, and ensure community safety during this critical transition.
Key Challenges Facing the Private Security Industry
That said, the private security industry itself must overcome key challenges before it can meet these expectations. Labour exploitation, poor screening standards, and inconsistent training still plague parts of the sector. It’s troubling that many companies hold accreditations like ACS but lack the expertise to implement proper screening processes. At Get Licensed, we work with customers who often don’t know where to start when it comes to ensuring that their staff meet basic security standards.
Improving Private Security Training and Standards
Training is another area where the current system falls short. The industry’s reliance on front-loaded training courses—where individuals receive a license valid for three years without additional skill-building in between—is no longer fit for purpose. While refresher courses are helpful, they come too late in the cycle. Ongoing, continuous training is essential for maintaining high standards, ensuring that security professionals remain equipped to handle the evolving nature of threats.
Collaboration Between Private Security and Law Enforcement
Collaboration with the police must also be approached with fairness and inclusivity. While industry giants like Mitie and G4S dominate much of the market, smaller providers like My Local Bobby have shown that smaller, community-focused players can have a meaningful impact. These partnerships underscore the role of private security officers in UK safety, as they bring localised expertise and tailored approaches to addressing crime.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) must set and enforce rigorous standards for all companies involved in public safety.
The Opportunity to Strengthen Public Safety
This is a moment of opportunity for the UK. By embracing collaboration between law enforcement and private security, we can address the rising tide of crime with strength and unity. But more than that, this is a chance to reform the private security industry itself—raising standards, ensuring fair treatment of workers, and equipping professionals with the skills they need to succeed.
As the FT article makes clear, this is about more than reducing crime. It’s about rebuilding trust—trust in the police, trust in private security, and trust in the systems that keep us safe.
At Get Licensed, we are committed to being part of that change. Equip your team with the skills needed to meet today’s security challenges. From Door Supervisor Training to CCTV Operator Courses, Get Licensed provides industry-leading training to help you build a workforce that protects and inspires trust.
By focusing on collaboration, education, and continuous improvement, we believe the private security sector can help create a safer, stronger future for the UK.
