It is clear that some individuals are not getting the proper advice for whatever reason. Anyone leaving the forces to enter the CP industry needs to be aware that they need to plan their resettlement carefully.
To work in the UK and overseas where Uk law applies and with the majority of British risk management companies, a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence is mandatory. To get this you need to have training qualifications and pass a Criminal Records Check.
Training must be a First Aid qual (HSE FAW or FPOS) and an accredited CP course. The SIA specify a minimum of 150 Guided Learning Hours. Be aware that many training providers deliver just enough to cover this and employers are going back to the pre-licence practise of rating training courses. First question will often be 'Have you got a CP licence?' and the second will be 'Who trained you?'
For working in hostile environments such as Iraq and Afghanistan, where carriage of firearms is necessary, you will generally need 5+ years military experience and 2 to 3 operational tours under your belt. Most reputable companies with such contracts will have induction/continuation training that will include firearms training.
UK and much of international CP work will not involve firearms. Corporate clients will demand more subtle skills and good communication and interpersonal skills.
If applying for an Enhanced Learning Credit, you need to apply for it at least three working weeks before the course start date and there is various documents to complete in respect of resettlement grants and allowances.
Time should be allowed at the end of the course (up to 2 weeks) for receiving your certificate and then applying for your licence (4-6 weeks).
The CP industry offers a range of employment opportunities and you are advised not to limit your thinking. It is suggested that you attend as many of the free seminars/briefing days as you can to learn more about the profession before committing yourself financially and to network. The Nemesis Group Ltd holds one throughout the year, every 6 weeks or so, as do several other companies.
Hope this advice helps.
To work in the UK and overseas where Uk law applies and with the majority of British risk management companies, a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence is mandatory. To get this you need to have training qualifications and pass a Criminal Records Check.
Training must be a First Aid qual (HSE FAW or FPOS) and an accredited CP course. The SIA specify a minimum of 150 Guided Learning Hours. Be aware that many training providers deliver just enough to cover this and employers are going back to the pre-licence practise of rating training courses. First question will often be 'Have you got a CP licence?' and the second will be 'Who trained you?'
For working in hostile environments such as Iraq and Afghanistan, where carriage of firearms is necessary, you will generally need 5+ years military experience and 2 to 3 operational tours under your belt. Most reputable companies with such contracts will have induction/continuation training that will include firearms training.
UK and much of international CP work will not involve firearms. Corporate clients will demand more subtle skills and good communication and interpersonal skills.
If applying for an Enhanced Learning Credit, you need to apply for it at least three working weeks before the course start date and there is various documents to complete in respect of resettlement grants and allowances.
Time should be allowed at the end of the course (up to 2 weeks) for receiving your certificate and then applying for your licence (4-6 weeks).
The CP industry offers a range of employment opportunities and you are advised not to limit your thinking. It is suggested that you attend as many of the free seminars/briefing days as you can to learn more about the profession before committing yourself financially and to network. The Nemesis Group Ltd holds one throughout the year, every 6 weeks or so, as do several other companies.
Hope this advice helps.
