Security isn’t just about who you are—it’s about who you can become. For too long, the security industry has been perceived through narrow stereotypes that don’t reflect the reality of modern security work or the diverse professionals who excel in these roles. The truth is that effective security comes from understanding people, communities, and situations—capabilities that are enhanced, not limited, by diversity.
The transformation happening across the UK security industry represents more than just changing demographics; it’s a recognition that diverse teams provide better security outcomes. As we approach Black History Month in October and look ahead to International Women’s Day next March, the industry’s embrace of diversity creates opportunities for everyone while improving security effectiveness.
The Current Landscape: Where We Stand in 2025
Understanding the current state of diversity in the UK security industry provides context for the positive changes taking place. While challenges remain, significant progress is being made across all areas of representation.
Industry Growth and Demographics
The overall workforce of 248,100 security professionals across the UK represents a substantial and growing industry that increasingly reflects the diversity of British society. This growth creates opportunities for professionals from all backgrounds to find meaningful careers in security.
Gender and Ethnic Representation
Gender statistics show that women currently hold 10.67% of active SIA licences, according to official industry diversity data. While this represents room for growth, it demonstrates increasing female participation in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Ethnic diversity is growing across all communities, with security companies actively recruiting from diverse backgrounds to better serve multicultural Britain. Compared to other industries, security shows progress while having room for improvement. For example, cybersecurity employs 17% women, while the general UK workforce is 47% women.
Breaking Barriers: Women Leading the Way in Security
Women are increasingly finding success and satisfaction in security careers, challenging traditional perceptions and paving the way for future generations. The industry is actively working to create more inclusive environments and opportunities.
Areas Where Women Excel
Roles where women excel often involve customer service-focused security, where communication skills and approachable demeanour enhance security effectiveness. CCTV and control room operations particularly appeal to women who prefer technology-focused roles with regular schedules and advancement opportunities. Event and retail security positions benefit from women’s natural ability to de-escalate conflicts and communicate with diverse groups. Risk assessment and compliance roles utilise analytical skills and attention to detail that many women bring to security work.
More and more women are taking up frontline security roles, ranging from door supervisors to security managers. The industry is responding with flexible security career options that support work-life balance for all professionals, recognising that inclusive policies benefit everyone while particularly supporting women’s participation in security careers.
Cultural Diversity: Strength Through Different Perspectives
The UK’s multicultural society is reflected in its security workforce, with professionals from diverse backgrounds bringing valuable perspectives and capabilities. This diversity strengthens the industry’s ability to serve all communities effectively.
The Multilingual Advantage
The value of multilingual security professionals cannot be overstated in modern Britain, where the ability to communicate with diverse communities enhances security effectiveness and improves service delivery across all sectors.
Community-Specific Opportunities
Community-specific opportunities include religious and cultural event security, where understanding of traditions ensures respectful provision. Community liaison roles utilise cultural knowledge and language skills to build bridges between security services and diverse communities. International business security benefits from professionals who understand global cultures, particularly important in London and other major business centres with significant international presence.
This aligns with broader UK workplace diversity trends showing increased representation across all industries, with security participating in this positive evolution.
Age is Just a Number: Security Careers Across Generations
Security careers welcome professionals of all ages, with each generation bringing unique strengths and perspectives to the industry. Age diversity creates stronger teams and better service delivery across all security sectors. As long as you’re over 18 and are authorised to work in the UK, there’s no reason why you can’t get an SIA licence.
Generational Strengths
Younger professionals (18-25) bring tech-savvy capabilities, energy, and adaptability that enhance modern security operations. Mid-career changers (26-45) contribute experience, stability, and well-developed customer service skills gained from previous careers. Mature workers (45+) offer wisdom, reliability, and mentoring capabilities that strengthen security teams.
Career starters aged 50+ represent a growing trend of later-life career changes, bringing decades of professional experience from other industries. These professionals frequently excel in security roles that value maturity and professional interaction skills.
Get Licensed’s training programmes support starting a security career at any age (compliant with SIA licence regulations), and we offer comprehensive SIA licence document guidance to help you with your SIA training and licensing processes.
Accessibility and Inclusion: Security for All Abilities
The security industry is increasingly recognising that diverse abilities contribute to stronger, more effective teams. Technology and inclusive practices are creating opportunities for professionals with different physical and cognitive capabilities.
Many security roles focus on prevention, monitoring, and coordination rather than physical confrontation. CCTV monitoring and control rooms provide essential security functions while accommodating various physical capabilities. Access control and reception roles combine security responsibilities with customer service, while risk assessment positions focus on analytical capabilities and strategic thinking.
Check Out Our Podcast: How To Improve Accessibility In The Security Industry
Industry Initiatives: Building a More Inclusive Future
Positive change in diversity and inclusion requires deliberate action and sustained commitment. Security industry leaders are implementing comprehensive programmes to create lasting change.
Employer programmes include diversity hiring initiatives that actively recruit from underrepresented groups, mentorship programmes supporting career development, and inclusive leadership training ensuring managers can effectively support all team members. Training adaptations include culturally sensitive materials respecting diverse backgrounds, multiple language support for non-native English speakers, and accessibility accommodations ensuring all professionals can access necessary training.
These inclusive security training options demonstrate the industry’s commitment to welcoming professionals from all backgrounds while maintaining the highest standards.
Your Place in Security: Getting Started
Regardless of your background, age, gender, or circumstances, there’s a place for you in the security industry. Taking the first step towards a security career is easier than you might think, with support available throughout your journey.
Addressing common concerns about fitting in starts with understanding that effective security requires diverse perspectives and approaches. Your unique background is an asset, not an obstacle, to security career success.
Support available during training may also include mentorship programmes, peer networks, and employer support systems designed to help all professionals succeed. Practical steps typically include researching inclusive employers who actively welcome diverse professionals, connecting with security professionals through networking events, and seeking mentorship opportunities.
Start your inclusive security career with SIA security training designed to welcome everyone and provide the foundation for success, regardless of background.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I face challenges as someone from an underrepresented background in security?
A: While the industry continues evolving, many employers now have strong diversity policies and support systems. Progressive companies actively work to create inclusive environments where all professionals can succeed based on merit and performance.
Q: Are there mentorship opportunities for diverse security professionals?
A: Yes, many security companies offer mentorship programmes specifically designed to support professionals from diverse backgrounds, providing career guidance, networking opportunities, and ongoing support throughout your security career.
Q: How can I find employers who genuinely value diversity?
A: Look for companies that publish diversity data, participate in diversity awards, have employee resource groups, and offer flexible working arrangements. During interviews, ask about their diversity initiatives and speak with current employees from similar backgrounds.
Q: What should I do if I experience discrimination in my security role?
A: Report incidents through your company’s formal procedures, contact ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) for independent guidance, or file complaints with the SIA if licensed individuals are involved. Most reputable employers have zero-tolerance policies for discrimination.
Your Future in Security Starts Now
The security industry’s transformation continues, and it needs professionals like you to drive further positive change. Your unique perspective, background, and experiences aren’t just welcome in security—they’re essential for creating stronger, more effective teams that truly serve diverse communities.
The barriers are falling, opportunities are expanding, and the industry is ready for your contribution. Join our inclusive community of security trainers and learners, and discover how your unique qualities can launch a rewarding career while contributing to an industry that’s embracing its full potential.
Book a course today to get started.
