Ahmad Rafqiue is the group founder and CEO of SSG Support Services Group. In his first blog for Infologue.com, he discussed elitism within the security industry.
The UK security industry is built on the shoulders of thousands of front-line officers — the ones standing in the cold, the rain, and sometimes in danger.
Yet, when we look at our industry associations — the very bodies that claim to represent and uplift this workforce — one can’t help but ask: who are they really uplifting?
The Illusion of Inclusivity
Security industry associations often present themselves as the unifying voice of our sector.
But in practice? We see the same logos, the same companies, and the same individuals on every panel, every award stage, and every glossy brochure.
Membership fees, sponsorship costs, and “elite” networking events quietly filter out the small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) that make up the majority of the UK’s private security landscape.
The very firms doing the hard work — securing housing estates, markets, ports, and hospitals — are often left on the sidelines of conversations that shape their future.
SMEs: The Beating Heart Without a Voice
SMEs employ most of the security officers in the UK. They are the ones recruiting from local communities, giving opportunities to veterans, NEETs, and those seeking a new start.
But in the rooms where “industry standards” and “innovation strategies” are discussed, their voices are rarely heard.
Why? Because participation comes at a cost — not just in money, but in time, influence, and access.
Large corporations can afford PR agencies, policy consultants, and event sponsorships. SMEs, on the other hand, are focused on paying their officers on time, managing TUPE transfers, and keeping their contracts running smoothly.
Their absence from association tables isn’t about lack of insight — it’s about an imbalance of access.
Where Are the Front-Line Officers?
This is the hardest question of all.
For every board meeting about “improving welfare” or “raising standards,” how many front-line officers are invited to share their experiences?
Very few — if any.
These officers are the industry. They’re the face of safety in our communities, the first responders before the emergency services arrive, and the ones absorbing the pressure every single day.
Yet, they remain invisible in the conversations that decide their future.
Awards nights, conferences, “security weeks” — all tend to celebrate management excellence, not operational reality.
If we can’t bring front-line officers into our associations, then what exactly are we “uplifting”?
Integration Without Inclusion
Security is not just a business. It’s a public service, a community interface, and a frontline social function.
But when associations speak of “integration,” it’s often top-down — limited to corporate pledges, sponsorships, and press releases.
True integration happens on the ground:
- When officers de-escalate an ASB incident.
- When an SME partners with a local charity to recruit vulnerable residents.
- When a control room operator saves a life through fast reporting.
If industry associations want to stay relevant, they must bring these real stories and real people into the narrative.
Because safety starts in communities — not committees.
Rebuilding Representation
We can change this. But it will take intent.
Here’s how:
Democratise membership – Allow affordable tiers for SMEs and grassroots providers.
Include front-line representation – Reserve seats on advisory boards for active officers and supervisors.
Recognise real impact – Celebrate officers and SMEs delivering genuine community safety, not just sponsors or shareholders.
Create local voices – Establish regional forums linking associations with councils, residents, and front-line teams.
From Prestige to Purpose – If our associations truly want to “uplift the industry,” they must start with the people holding the line.
The industry doesn’t need more champagne receptions or polished statements — it needs authentic representation.
Because until every officer, every SME, and every community feels seen and heard, we’re only uplifting those who were already standing tall.
The security industry will only evolve when its associations look down — not up — to find its true strength.