The Security Industry Authority (SIA) recently held a consultation on proposed changes to the rules that decide who can hold an SIA licence. These changes aim to improve the criteria, especially regarding criminal records and the overall “fit and proper” test all applicants and current licence holders must pass. If approved, the update will also revise the list of offences the SIA considers when deciding whether to grant or renew licences.
Key Proposed Changes
One important part of the consultation was to review how criminality affects eligibility for an SIA licence. The SIA wants clearer and fairer standards on which offences matter when assessing applications. The consultation also aimed to increase transparency, explaining the wider “fit and proper” test in more detail so that applicants understand the standards they must meet.
Tim Archer, the SIA Director of Licensing and Standards, commented that the consultation received a strong response. He said the proposed changes are meant to improve public safety further, and the feedback shows good support from people working in the security industry.
Next Steps After Consultation
After reviewing the consultation feedback carefully, the SIA will finalise its recommendations. These will then be sent for approval by government ministers in the autumn. If ministers agree, the SIA will update its official guidance and rules on the Get Licensed website, and the new licensing criteria will come into effect.
About the SIA
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the UK organisation responsible for regulating the private security sector. It operates under the Private Security Industry Act 2001 and reports to the Home Secretary. The SIA’s main job is to ensure that people working in security have the right licences to carry out designated activities legally. The SIA also manages the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), which recognises high standards among security companies.
The recent SIA consultation is a step forward in making the licensing process clearer and stronger. By improving the rules around criminality and the fit and proper test, the SIA aims to better protect the public and support a trustworthy security industry. Once finalised and approved, these changes will help ensure that only suitable individuals can work in security roles across the UK.
