Reduction in the Security Industry Authority licence fee 25 February 2023

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) are reducing their fee for an SIA licence from the 6^th April this year. The cost of a licence is to be reduced from £190 to £184 the lowest its been since 2004, making it the lowest cost its ever been.

The reduction applies to both new applicants and those renewing their existing licence, so it’s a benefit that will affect both new and existing ESG Security staff.

A statement from the SIA read: “The reduction has been possible due to various efficiency and cost savings we have made. These savings have also enabled us to increase our resourcing for our inspection and enforcement work, bolstering its footprint and visibility across the UK without increasing the licence fee. We have doubled the number of staff working in intelligence, inspections, and criminal investigations.”  

Though a £6 reduction might not feel like a huge decrease, with the current cost-of-living, every penny really does count. When looking at the bigger picture it’s an excellent example of the SIA making changes to reflect the current economic turmoil.  The SIA explains: “At £184, the new licence fee is the lowest it’s ever been. If adjusted at inflation levels since 2004 the current fee would be £350.” When put into context like this, the reduction does feel more purposeful.

What does this mean for the industry in general?

The change recognises the importance of the work that we do. Security Guarding, Mobile Patrols, Alarm Response, Door Supervision and all the other services we provide are vital to businesses up and down the country. When times are hard, as they are now, it’s a recognised trend that crime goes up. With business assets more precious than ever, it’s down to private security companies such as us to support the local authorities in preventing, reducing and managing crime.

If you’re looking to further your career within the security, please check the careers section on our website or email us an up to date copy of your CV. All prospective candidates need to hold an SIA licence before applying, so with this reduced cost, now is a great time to take the next step in your career. We look forward to meeting you.