The future of security: Paul Harvey, CEO at Ward Security
A period of change
“Physical security looks like it’s on the verge of a major shake-up.” Not the first time that these words have been heard! New threats, smarter tech and rising labour costs are all coming together to change the way organisations protect people and places, especially in higher-risk environments. With the National and London Living Wage climbing sharply over the past few years, traditional manned security models are under pressure.
Budgets are getting squeezed, and many clients are now questioning whether they can continue paying staff in line with Living Wage Foundation guidance. As a result, some organisations are reducing the number of on-site security roles, choosing instead to invest in more advanced solutions. Smart access control systems, biometrics, robotics, drones, AI and predictive analytics are no longer futuristic concepts – they’re becoming realistic, cost-effective parts of the security toolkit. This blend of technology and fewer on-site staff is set to transform how physical security is delivered in the years ahead.
The industry regulator, the SIA, is also heading into a period of change. Alongside getting ready for the requirements of the upcoming Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, it has a range of other projects underway. These include a review of security officer qualifications; a new Business Approval Scheme; tougher rules around licence-related offences; and more targeted checks on training centres and labour exploitation.
The good news is that the current security minister continues to take a much stronger interest in the SIA’s work, and engagement from government has noticeably improved.
In 2026 we’ll also see the S12 Security Leadership Group start to mature. Everyone accepts that its early launch was a bit rushed, driven by tight deadlines, and the reaction across the industry has been mixed. Even so, the idea behind S12 is solid: a forum aimed at raising standards, shaping policy and speeding up the rollout of new legislation. Next year we should start to see real progress. With direct access to the minister and the power to influence national strategy, there’s a genuine chance for S12 to make a difference.
