The national winners of the British Security Industry Association (BSIA)’s Annual Security Personnel Awards were recognized yesterday at a ceremony attended by the who’s who of the security industry. The awards, which celebrate the excellent work, including exceptional acts and vital contributions that those working in the security industry make consistently across the country, were presented by Lynne Featherstone MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Equalities and Criminal Information.
BSIA Chief Executive, James Kelly, commented after the ceremony: “Each of the winners has shown extreme bravery and dedication to their jobs and often going beyond the call of duty. Today’s presentation has praised the achievements of both individuals and teams who strive to ensure the safety of their clients and the public. Each and every one of them is a testament to our industry and they should be applauded.”
The awards were presented in the following categories: Best Newcomer, Outstanding Act, Best Use of Technology, Best Team and Service to the Customer.
BSIA National Security Personnel Award winners 2011
Best Newcomer
Andrew Poulton of Advance Security (UK) Ltd, who won his award whist working on nine different mobile operations contracts within the Leicestershire region. His success, motivation to acquire knowledge and leadership skills have allowed him to fast-track to the position of Mobile Supervisor after just three months on the contract, despite coming from a sales background and having limited relevant experience.
Jurgita Zongailiene of CIS Security Ltd, who works on a contract at a high profile shopping centre in London. In just one year Jurgita received three high profile recognition awards for the professionalism she displayed when dealing with the variety of incidents that can occur when working in such a prestigious and busy environment. Jurgita has also considerably invested in her future in the industry by taking part in a number of training programmes.
Samantha Sadler of Securitas Security Services Ltd, for completely integrating into her new team after just 10 months, and assimilating as much knowledge as possible to make sure her contribution was worthwhile and appreciated. Samantha also demonstrated initiative by introducing new processes and undertaking research for the benefit of herself and her colleagues.
Outstanding Act:
Cyril Tatar of Lynx Security Services Ltd, for taking full control of the situation when, on just his second shift at a site in London, he found the permanent Security Officer that was supervising him lying unconscious on the floor. Cyril’s first aid skills combined with clear thinking in a time of unimaginable pressure ensured the situation remained under control and that paramedics were then able to take over safely and instantly.
Mohammed Shabeer Khan of Securitas Security Services Ltd, who has been a Security Officer at Chiltern Railways for more than nine years. Whilst on a night shift last year, Shabeer came across a desperate man who threatened to end his life. Displaying outstanding alertness and persistence, the officer took control of the situation, ultimately saving the man’s life and ensuring the safety of passengers and staff.
Laurence Timmins of VSG, who works at the Mall, Sutton Coldfield, and who was not afraid to put himself in danger by helping a youth that was being chased across the mall by a crowd of 40 people. Laurence’s maturity and composure when dealing with such a difficult incident prevented the situation from deteriorating significantly.
Best Use of Technology
Jeffrey Evans of OCS Group UK Ltd, for his relentless work in the CCTV control room at Aberafan Shopping Centre. His meticulous approach to the role and the extensive knowledge of the CCTV equipment he operates have resulted in Jeffrey being directly involved in solving many of the crimes committed on site. In 2010 alone, his efforts led to the arrest of over 50 shoplifters.
Securitas CCTV Operations Northampton town centre team, for excelling at working in partnership with a number of key players, including council teams and external agencies such as Police, Neighbourhood Wardens, the Retail Crime Initiative and local businesses. The team has been praised time and again for its ability to find new and innovative ways to improve CCTV operations for the Borough.
VSG Security Team Slough, for providing a safe and secure working environment for staff, the business and operations for a renowned client. In particular, the team has achieved an outstanding level of knowledge and expertise in making use of the security systems available on site, completely mastering the technology and ensuring it constantly works at full capacity.