You may think that once you have been granted a licence by the SIA, there is nothing more to consider, that you can work freely within the security sector without worry. However, it’s extremely important that you keep the SIA informed about any recent changes to your circumstances.
Did you know that any changes left unreported could result in having your licence revoked or suspended by the SIA?
Worse, you could even be prosecuted for ‘contravening licence conditions’ – which is actually a criminal offence under Section 9 of the Private Security Act, 2001.
So, with this dreaded prospect in mind, how can you avoid it?
When the SIA grant you your licence, they will send you a letter listing all the licence conditions. Also, for the front-line licence card, there is a letter attached online, again listing these conditions.
They explicitly state the following:
‘As an SIA licence holder, you must use your online account to tell us if:’
- You change your name
- You change your address
- Your licence is lost or stolen
- Your right to work in the UK changes
- You are charged, cautioned, warned or convicted of any relevant offences
So, by informing the SIA of any changes made, for example, if you have recently moved address but have neglected to inform them, the SIA would be unable to notify you of any crucial updates. This is because they would still be using the existing address currently on file.
If you have moved and have not told them, you could also miss your chance to appeal.
While nobody wants to have their licence revoked or suspended, by being aware of the conditions listed above, you could save yourself a lot of disappointment.
How to work in the security sector
If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain an SIA Licence.
To obtain an SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.
