The Security Industry Authority (SIA), the UK’s independent regulator for the private security industry, has published new guidance for buyers of security and event security services.
It comes at a time when businesses and event organisers are facing rising threat levels, making it more important than ever to have effective security plans in place and to ensure every penny invested in security is being used wisely.
Security to Tackle Threat Levels
In April 2026, The Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) raised the UK National Threat Level from SUBSTANTIAL, meaning an attack is likely, to SEVERE, meaning an attack is highly likely. This shift again highlights the critical importance of strong, compliant security provision.
The introduction of Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, further reinforces the importance of taking security procurement seriously. The legislation will place legal responsibilities on certain venues and event organisers to consider the threat of terrorism, implement proportionate protective measures, and ensure staff are appropriately prepared to respond in the event of an incident.
While the specific requirements will vary depending on the size and nature of a venue or event, the direction of travel is clear. Buyers are expected to demonstrate that security has been properly considered, planned and delivered by competent providers. This makes robust due diligence and professional security partnerships more important than ever.
Choosing a Security Provider
Choosing an external security provider to work with is a key part of the process for both companies and event organisers. To help those responsible for security procurement to make an informed decision, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) has published new guidance.
Entitled ‘Guidance for Buyers of Security Services and Event Security’ the document provides practical advice on choosing a professional security provider, along with key information around compliance and the roles requiring licensing under UK law.
Who produced the guidance?
The guidance has been published by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the UK’s independent regulator for the private security industry. The SIA oversees licensing for security professionals and manages the Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), which currently assesses the quality of private security suppliers. When this scheme is replaced by the Business Accreditation Scheme (BAS), the SIA will maintain its oversight.
The newly released guidance forms part of the Authority’s ongoing work to raise standards, improve compliance, and support companies and event organisers in meeting their legal responsibilities.
You can find out more about The Business Accreditation Scheme and other changes underway within the security industry in our blog here.
Why this guidance matters
The guidance is designed to help security buyers:
- Understand which roles require an SIA licence
- Carry out due diligence when selecting a security provider
- Recognise licensable vs. non‑licensable activities
- Ensure the right people are in the right roles at the right time
It also reinforces that job titles don’t determine licensing, it is the activity being carried out that does so.
Key highlights from the guidance include:
1. Identifying licensable roles
The document outlines which roles require an SIA licence. This is to help companies avoid accidental non‑compliance. Such as:
- Screening individuals entering a venue
- Managing access control
- Monitoring behaviour for safety risks
2. Due diligence when choosing a provider
It includes a practical checklist to help buyers assess potential security providers, ensuring they meet all legal and professional standards.
3. Volunteers and vulnerable groups
It clarifies when volunteers may or may not require a licence, and highlights considerations for safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
4. Counter‑terrorism and contingency planning
The document emphasises the importance of robust planning, including counter‑terrorism measures and emergency procedures, which are now a critical part of security.
Why this is important for the industry
This new guidance comes at a time when expectations around security, safety, compliance, and professionalism are higher than ever. With increasing regulatory scrutiny, the introduction of Martyn’s Law, and an evolving threat landscape, companies and event organisers must ensure that security provision forms a core part of their planning.
By following the SIA’s recommendations, buyers can better reduce risk, improve safety outcomes, and ensure they are meeting their legal obligations.
You can download the document here: Guidance for Buyers of Security Services and Event Security’
In summary
Choosing the right professional security partner is an important decision, with the risks associated with poor or non‑compliant security being significant. People are at the heart of any robust security system and that means working with highly trained officers who bring professionalism, vigilance and sound judgement to their roles.
Understanding compliance, licensing requirements and the right questions to ask is essential. The SIA’s new guidance is a valuable resource to support informed decision‑making.
In need of expert security support?
At Venture Security, we’re proud to be an award-winning security provider that is setting standards, raising expectations, and redefining what it means to protect.
Our experienced team can support the smooth and safe delivery of your event, whether your security needs are for a greenfield site, built environment, sporting venue or arena.
As well as supporting many top venues and events, we are trusted by hundreds of organisations across the region, including world-famous visitor attractions, leading manufacturers and local authorities.
To learn more about how we work and to discuss your specific security needs, call us on 01264 391538 or email [email protected]
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