If you’ve been reading up on close protection courses and researching the security industry, you more than likely have a few lingering questions. While the answers to most of these questions can be found elsewhere, we’re going to focus on one in particular – who should attend a close protection course? We hope that this blog sheds a little light on this subject so that you have one less thing to worry about.
Close protection relates to a service in which trained personnel are tasked with providing personal bodyguard services for an individual and their family. From celebrities and politicians to bankers, diplomats, high-ranking military officers, and other HNWI (High Net Worth Individuals), there is no shortage of potential clients. As some of the most influential people in the world, they are often the ones threatened by criminals and terrorists.
A Close Protection Officer (CPO) is tasked with keeping their charge safe. This can involve shadowing them while in public or even providing protection and surveillance for their place of work or residence. CPOs are trained to recognise threats quickly and act accordingly, acting on any intelligence that has been gathered. It’s a hugely demanding role that involves a lot of training, planning, and awareness and is, therefore, not a role that is suitable for everyone.
In order to become a CPO, you must first acquire a Close Protection Licence from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). There is a criteria for obtaining an SIA licence which includes being in possession of an official close protection qualification and a first aid certificate. You must also be over 18 and have passed a criminal records check.
It is also advisable that you speak more than one language, and a drivers’ licence is a must for obvious reasons. Those with a background in law enforcement, the military, or government agencies that offer close protection services are far more likely to be considered as worthwhile candidates. As such, it’s always worth considering other routes along the way.
Therefore, anyone considering a career in close protection security should consider attending a close protection course. Those who are proficient in martial arts, have excellent knowledge of firearms, an up-to-date knowledge of the latest technologies, and are physically fit and able should also consider this course.
In a nutshell, anyone looking to attend a close protection course will need to possess a wide range of skills, be able to cope well under pressure, and exercise self-discipline. A CPO must be a fast and efficient decision maker, punctual, able to work well with others as well as solo, possess excellent communication skills, and be adaptable.
So, if the answer to “who should attend a close protection course?” sounds a lot like you, you’re likely asking yourself whether it’s the right choice for you.
If you’re looking to become a part of a dynamic, fast-evolving industry, then close protection is undoubtedly the way forward. The close protection industry brings together a range of areas and specialisations, creating a challenging yet rewarding role that helps equip and change your perspective of the world around you.
Those who choose to attend a close protection course and eventually progress to work in this industry can often expect to be paid well. For those looking to leave the military, law enforcement, or a government job and embark on a new career, close protection is definitely a viable option. At Orchid Risk, we cover other sectors too in our security training, including:
So, whatever path you’re looking to follow eventually, if you’re planning on obtaining your SIA licence and wondering who should attend a close protection course, the answer is – you! For more information, pick up the phone and call Orchid Risk today on +44 (0) 1202 692250.
