The UK’s security and night-time economy sectors have raised concerns that the planned removal of Level 2 and Level 3 security apprenticeships could lead to a shortage of trained personnel at a time when demand for public protection is expected to increase.
Industry figures argue that although current uptake of these apprenticeships is relatively limited, they form an important entry point into the sector and contribute to longer-term workforce development. With the introduction of Martyn’s Law set to place additional statutory duties on venues and publicly accessible locations, questions are being raised about how the industry will maintain sufficient staffing levels with appropriate training.
Apprenticeship pathways at Levels 2 and 3 account for a significant proportion of training routes across the UK, with 74% of apprenticeship completions nationally occurring at these levels. Sector representatives say their removal could restrict access into the industry and reduce structured progression routes for new entrants.
There are also concerns about the timing of the decision in relation to evolving security requirements. Stakeholders warn that reducing early-stage training routes may affect the sector’s ability to meet future operational demands linked to enhanced safety obligations.
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said:
“This is a short-sighted decision at a critical time. Security apprenticeships may be small in number today, but they are essential to building the workforce of tomorrow. As Martyn’s Law comes into force, venues and public spaces will be under increasing pressure to deliver enhanced security measures. Without the right people, properly trained and developed through structured pathways, we risk creating a gap in capability that will directly impact public safety and business resilience.”
Satia Rai, CEO of IPSA, said:
“These apprenticeships represent the foundation of a professional security industry. They provide accessible entry points, support workforce development, and create clear progression routes into leadership and specialist roles. Removing them now, before they have had the opportunity to mature, risks stalling the progress we have made in professionalising the sector and limits our ability to attract and retain talent.”
Anne Marie Chebib, Chair of UKCMA, said:
“Our members operate in complex, high-risk environments where safety is paramount. The introduction of Martyn’s Law rightly raises the bar for security across the public realm, but that must be matched by investment in people and skills. These apprenticeships are a critical part of that solution. Without them, we risk placing additional pressure on businesses while reducing the pipeline of skilled individuals needed to keep people safe.”
Industry stakeholders are calling for the decision to be reconsidered and have suggested a formal roundtable between government and sector representatives. There are also calls for engagement with frontline personnel currently working in roles that originated through apprenticeship routes, to better assess the impact of the changes on operational capability.
As regulatory expectations increase across the UK’s public venues and events sector, industry voices continue to emphasise the role of structured training pathways in maintaining workforce readiness and public safety standards.