2020 and 2021 are being hailed as a year unlike any other in living memory. After the First and Second World Wars, the streets and communities were almost non-stop celebrations as people celebrated the end of hard times.
Well, it wasn’t as bad as a war, but it was certainly an uncertain and difficult time for all of us.
During the pandemic, many of us lost jobs as businesses that could not withstand weeks and months of closure. Much needed income has been lost, as well as a sense of purpose. And having to claim benefits, as well as being locked in under curfew, has been a struggle. Many people were affected by contracting Covid themselves or their family members.
A new career for a new era
So, with a much more positive summer approaching, you may be thinking of embarking on a new career. Well, the good news is that the security industry is thriving. As you head back to the shops and the city centre, you may notice security guards where there were none before.
There is a huge demand for security guards at the moment! The security industry is thriving, so why not consider starting a new career in this sector?
Which begs the question, how do you become a security guard? Well, here are the main criteria for becoming a security guard.
Requirements to become a security guard
You must be 18 years of age or older. And you must also be able to pass an identity and criminal record check.
Once you have met these criteria, you must undergo SIA training.
And you have to pay for a licence. The licence costs £190 and takes about 25 working days. You’ll need to make sure you provide proof of your identity, your degree and your right to work in the UK. When you apply for the licence, this is when they will carry out a criminal records check. This is why it can take up to six weeks.
You can view a course that is local to you by clicking on the link here.
Stress-free course
But what about the course? Any kind of course or qualification can be daunting. There’s the idea of learning new things and will you pass the course. Well, there’s no need to worry about that either.
Friendly, down-to-earth trainers run the courses. Many of them were once security guards. They will explain what it’s like to work in the industry and everything you need to know.
The course has a 90% pass rate, and although you will have to learn new things and take tests to show that you have understood the information, everything is delivered in small, easily digestible chunks.
What will I learn?
You can even take mock tests to practice the type of questions you will be asked. You don’t need a GCSE pass to take the course, but you do need to understand English well. You will enjoy learning practical things such as how to give first aid and manage conflict, as well as diffuse situations that can get out of hand. You won’t be expected to be trained in any type of martial arts or to be a super-strong gym enthusiast.
The course only takes four days and costs as little as £179.99. The courses are held in over 85 locations across the country and take place in pleasant surroundings in conference centres and hotels. If you are not happy with the way the course is run, there is a money-back guarantee. You can even pay for the course in instalments.