The Big Issue

While that speculation has largely emanated from non-members, this is a debate in which we are happy to engage because the BSIA is confident in the value it offers as a leading Trade Association now approaching its 40th year of operation.

First, it is very important to make some distinctions between the role of the BSIA (a Trade Association) and that of the SIA (the Regulator). A Trade Association is “an association of people or companies in a particular business or trade, organised to promote their common interest”. A Regulator is “one who regulates”, which is to “subject to restrictions, to keep in order.”

While the SIA has adopted an open stance regarding industry consultation, it neither ‘represents’ nor ‘promotes’ security companies’ interests. That role will remain very much the domain of the BSIA.

In addition to many practical membership benefits, the BSIA will continue to represent its members’ interests on regulatory issues, lobby on policy/legislative change such as the Working Time Regulations, ensure that Skills for Security delivers training that meets our members’ needs, influence the development of new standards and Codes of Practice, liaise with key influencers, provide a networking Forum, deliver informative and timely communications and build partnerships with the police service and other agencies aimed at maximising opportunities for the wider policing family.

In conclusion, the Approved Contractor Scheme is an important benchmark. One which the BSIA fully supports. However, that Scheme cannot deliver the many and varied benefits of Trade Association membership.

Interestingly, while the BSIA is no longer actively going out of its way to recruit new members, its ranks continue to grow. Actions speak louder than words.