Under the agreements, G4S SSUK will deliver its services to a minimum of 18 sites in London and 21 buildings in the North, including four in Scotland and one in Northern Ireland. It is also possible that the number of sites will increase as part of the GPA’s ‘Places for Growth’ initiative. The contract is set to commence on October 1, 2023.
The core security services encompass a range of duties, such as surveillance and alarm monitoring, visitor management (including access control), emergency response, keyholding patrol teams, car park management, voice announcement system operation, and, in certain cases, flag flying duty.
To enhance the integration of security and technology, data and analytics will be utilized to deploy security officers to higher-risk areas and record security incidents. Digital incident reports will be promptly shared with the customer.
Eddie Hirst, Business Development Director Major Projects for G4S SSUK, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity: “G4S SSUK has extensive experience in integrated security, particularly in meeting the requirements of customers across the country, including recognizable and sensitive sites. We are thrilled to contribute to the Government’s Levelling Up and Places for Growth agenda by preserving and creating additional jobs in various locations in the northern region of the UK.”
All existing staff, totaling nearly 300 individuals employed by the previous contract holders, will be given the option to transfer to G4S SSUK through the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) regulations (TUPE). New hires, like the current employees, will be required to undergo Security Check (SC) clearance.
Those who choose to transfer to G4S SSUK will have access to professional development opportunities during their working hours. This includes participating in webinars, training courses, and knowledge-sharing sessions for industry leaders through the G4S Academy.
“We recognize that relying on security officers stationed at building entrances alone is an outdated approach. By providing professional development opportunities during work hours, we aim to engage security officers and promote their career advancement, which we are committed to supporting,” added Eddie.