There are concerns over gig security in the UK following an investigative report by the BBC into “sham” training programmes to obtain security licenses. The report revealed that an undercover journalist from File on 4 was able to complete a mandatory six-day course in just over a day, missing out on crucial aspects such as first-aid training. The journalist was also asked to forge time-sheets, miss important courses, and take instructions on which boxes to fill in on the final exam’s answer sheets at SIA-approved course providers such as Steps Institution and Caetop College. Four out of twelve “no pass, no fee” Level 2 SIA door supervisor training course companies that File on 4 approached were found to illegally offer the journalist shortened courses.
Trainees who complete the six-day training course can apply for an SIA license and work at arenas, nightclubs, and other venues across the UK, subject to identity and criminal record checks. In response to the report, Michael Kill, CEO of Night Time Industries Association, expressed deep disappointment and concern over the accounts shared by the BBC. He urged the SIA to reconsider their process for accrediting training providers, calling it a pivotal moment to revamp the system and restore public trust in the sector.
This is not the first time that the BBC’s File on 4 has uncovered issues in the security industry. Earlier this year, another programme revealed that some staff at O2 Academy Brixton took bribes to let fans without tickets into the venue. The same venue was also the site of a fatal crowd crush in December 2019, which led to it being shut down. The venue has recently been granted its reopening under strict conditions to ensure the safety and protection of attendees.
It is clear that there are serious concerns in the security industry in the UK. It is essential that the SIA takes action to address the issues raised and improve the quality and credibility of training providers. The safety of gig-goers and employees must be a top priority, and the industry needs to work together to ensure that standards are maintained across the board
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