Servis Group: Keeping Ahead of the Latest Changes in the UK Security Industry
Industry Update | August 2026
The UK security industry continues to evolve, with the Security Industry Authority (SIA) proposing important changes to the training and qualifications linked to SIA licensing.
At Servis, we welcome developments that strengthen professional standards and support the continued development of the security industry. As security risks and expectations continue to change, ensuring that security professionals have the right skills, knowledge and preparation is more important than ever.
What Is Changing?
On 28 August 2026, the SIA launched a public consultation on proposed changes to licence-linked qualifications and the requirements for obtaining an SIA licence.
The proposals include updated training and qualification requirements covering areas such as:
Conflict management and realistic security scenarios
First aid
Communication and English-language skills
Incident recording and crime-scene preservation
Counter-terrorism awareness
Spiking and drug-related incidents
Emerging technologies and drones
The SIA is also consulting on whether security guards, door supervisors and close protection operatives should be required to hold a valid first aid qualification as a condition of their licence.
The consultation closes on 23 October 2026, with new licence-linked qualifications expected to be introduced during 2027.
What Does This Mean for Servis?
At Servis, maintaining high professional standards is central to the way we deliver security services.
We provide SIA Security Guarding, alongside specialist services including K9 Security, Front of House and Waking Watch. Our services are tailored to the individual requirements and risk profiles of our clients across construction, retail, property, hospitality and other commercial environments.
Our approach is built around professional people, appropriate training, effective procedures and the use of technology.
As the regulatory landscape develops, we remain committed to maintaining strong operational standards and delivering security solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.
Combining People, Experience and Technology
Effective security is about more than simply providing a physical presence.
At Servis, we combine experienced security personnel with technology to strengthen visibility, accountability and operational control.
Our QR-Patrol system enables security personnel to record patrols and incidents in real time, providing greater visibility for our monitoring teams and clients.
For larger and more complex environments, combining professional personnel, structured procedures and technology helps support consistent security operations and accurate reporting.
Responding to a Changing Security Environment
The SIA's latest proposals reflect the increasingly complex environment in which security professionals operate.
Research conducted by the SIA found that 43% of licence holders surveyed are having to deal with increasing levels of violence at work. The research involved 1,442 licence holders, forming part of wider engagement with the security industry.
This highlights the importance of ensuring security professionals are properly prepared to manage conflict, respond to incidents and protect both themselves and the public.
At Servis, we recognise that security requirements do not stand still. Training, technology, operational standards and professional development must continue to evolve alongside the risks our clients face.
Looking Ahead
Servis will continue to follow the SIA consultation and developments across the UK security industry closely.
Our objective remains unchanged: to provide professional, reliable and responsive security solutions that help protect people, property and businesses.
As the industry moves towards the next generation of security qualifications and standards, Servis remains focused on delivering a service built around professional people, effective technology and high operational standards.
Source & Further Information
This article is based on the latest information published by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) regarding proposed changes to security licence-linked qualifications and training.
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