Who uses close protection?

In 2023, there are a variety of ways to ensure your security, whether it's for yourself or your executives.

The types of clients who need close protection in the UK vary widely. Some common clients include:

• Celebrities: Celebrities are often targeted by stalkers and other individuals who want to harm them.
• Politician: Politicians are also at risk of being targeted, especially if they are involved in controversial issues.
• Business executives: Business executives may need close protection if they are involved in high-stakes deals or if they are working in a dangerous country.
• Athletes: Athletes may need close protection if they are traveling to a dangerous country or if they are at risk of being kidnapped.
• Witnesses: Witnesses to crimes or other incidents may need close protection to prevent them from being harmed or intimidated.

The cost of close protection in the UK varies depending on the type of protection that is needed and the level of risk that the client faces. However, it is important to remember that the cost of close protection is often outweighed by the cost of a security breach or other incident.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about close protection in the UK:

• The Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates the close protection industry in the UK. All close protection professionals must be licensed by the SIA.
• The SIA requires close protection professionals to undergo a rigorous training program that covers a variety of topics, such as firearms safety, defensive driving, and first aid.
• Close protection professionals must also be able to pass a background check and drug test.

Introducing the Private Security Industry Act 2001 (PSIRA)

The Private Security Industry Act 2001 (PSIRA) is a UK law that regulates the private security industry. It was introduced to set, maintain and raise the standards of the industry, and to protect the public from harm.

The PSIRA applies to a wide range of private security activities, including:

• Manned guarding
• Mobile patrol
• Keyholding
• Vehicle immobilisation
• Private investigation
• Security consultancy
• Close protection

The Act requires all individuals and companies that provide these services to be licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA is an independent body that is responsible for enforcing the PSIRA.

The PSIRA also sets out a number of requirements for security operatives, including:

• They must be of good character
• They must have the necessary training and qualifications
• They must be fit and healthy
• They must be subject to a criminal records check

The PSIRA is an important piece of legislation that has helped to improve the standards of the private security industry in the UK. It has also made the industry more accountable to the public and has helped to protect the public from harm.

Real world example of close protection

In 2019, a diplomat was facing a risk from a potential group with a history of violence. The diplomat's security team contacted a private security firm, to provide them with close protection.

The officers conducted a security assessment of the diplomat's surroundings and implemented a number of security measures, including:

• 24/7 surveillance
• Vehicle patrols
• Access control
• Personal protection

The close protection officers also accompanied the diplomat on all their travels, both inside and outside the UK. They provided a discreet and professional security presence, and helped to ensure the diplomat's safety at all times.

If you are considering hiring close protection for yourself or someone you know, it is important to choose a reputable security firm with a proven track record of success. You should also carefully consider the specific needs of your client and the level of risk they are facing.