Labour exploitation remains one of the most significant risks facing the UK private security industry. It threatens public safety, damages trust, undermines professional standards, and exposes vulnerable individuals to harm. The gaps in regulation, including unregulated labour providers, unclear reporting routes, inconsistent enforcement powers, and limited data sharing, enables exploitation across the security sector.

The S12 aims to lead industry-wide action, working collaboratively with the SIA, HMRC, the Home Office and wider government to reduce risks, increase transparency, and modernise regulatory approaches.

Security officers face frequent violence and aggression. Unlike other public-facing roles (retail workers, emergency services), they do not benefit from specific legal protections that recognise the risks of their role.

There is strong industry consensus that this gap undermines officer safety and public protection.

Inconsistent standards, unregulated labour practices, and variable procurement behaviours continue to create risks to public safety. Mandatory Business Licensing (MBL - MR8) and removal of the in‑house exemption (MR7) represent the most significant opportunities to raise standards across the UK private security industry.

In the absence of MBL, the SIA will reshape the Business Approval Scheme (BAS). The S12 is positioned as a critical industry partner in ensuring this framework is fit for purpose.

Data sharing and improved buyer education are essential pillars in reducing exploitation, poor practice, and dilution of standards.

Collaboration between policing and private security can strengthen public safety, improve incident prevention and response, and build public trust.
Standardising best practice with a nationally recognised Integrated Policing & Private Security (IPPS) model, supported by clear roles, training awareness and frameworks (e.g., CSAS), is necessary for both industries to increase public protection and deliver trusty-worthy services.

Significant parts of the private security sector (particularly non‑ACS and areas outside PSIA scope) are less visible to regulators and policymakers. This makes it harder to spot and report risks, lowers standards, and drives inconsistent buyer behaviour. Current practices put public safety and the sector’s credibility at risk. 

Raising skills and professional standards is essential to improve service quality and public safety. A structured career pathway, relevant qualifications and better use of the Apprenticeship Levy will support workforce development and industry professionalism.

Training malpractice negatively affects standards and professionalism across the security industry. This not only undermines public safety but also places security personnel themselves at increased risk. The S12 will seek to work directly with government, regulators, law enforcement and industry to reduce assessment/training malpractice, support wrongdoing reporting and strengthen public safety.

Improving vetting standards across the sector requires the adoption of innovative digital solutions that enhance how data is stored, accessed, and shared across the industry. Streamlining vetting processes will raise standards while also improving efficiency and consistency.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also know as Martyn's Law seeks to enhance public safety by requiring UK venues and events to prepare for terrorism through training, information sharing, safety plans and risk assessments.