What are the entry requirements for a SIA Security Training?

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) plays a pivotal role in regulating and certifying security personnel across the UK. Attaining an SIA license is mandatory for those aspiring to work in the security sector in england. This license is granted upon the completion of a relevant SIA Security Training course. However, prospective students must meet specific entry criteria to enroll in these courses.

The entry requirements for SIA courses vary depending on the course type, nonetheless, for most SIA courses the following applies:

Age Requirements
Prospective students must be at least 18 years old to enroll in an SIA course. This requirement ensures that individuals possess the maturity necessary for working in the security industry.

English Proficiency
A good command of the English language is typically required for SIA courses. Since course materials and assessments are conducted in English, proficiency is essential for effective communication and comprehension.

Criminal Background
Certain SIA courses, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals or sensitive environments, may necessitate a criminal background check. This is to ensure that students have no criminal convictions that might impede their ability to work in security.

Physical Fitness
Some SIA courses, particularly those involving physical intervention or on-site duties, may have fitness prerequisites. These requirements ensure that students are physically capable of executing their duties safely and competently.

Right to Work in the UK
learners must possess the legal right to work in the UK to participate in SIA courses, this ensures compliance with UK employment laws.

It’s imperative to recognise that entry requirements can vary depending on the specific SIA course. For instance, the prerequisites for a Door Supervisor course may differ from those of a CCTV Operator course. Prospective students should review the entry requirements for their desired course to confirm compliance with all necessary criteria.

In summary, entry requirements for SIA courses in London are contingent upon the chosen course. However, common prerequisites typically include age, English proficiency, criminal background, physical fitness, and the right to work in the UK. Prospective students should verify the entry requirements for their preferred course to ensure eligibility and successful completion, leading to the acquisition of their SIA license.

For more information on the requirements you can contact the Vistech Training team on 0800 6123 280 or by email training@vistechservices.co.uk

Introducing V-Guard, the latest motion detection security tower

Vistech, a prominent security firm based in Middlesbrough, has been a strong presence in the industry for over 14 years, offering award-winning security services across the UK. Renowned for their unwavering commitment to quality service, exceptional client retention rates, and comprehensive employee welfare systems, the firm continues to lead the way in setting new standards within the security sector.

At the core of Vistech’s ethos lies a dedication to innovation and excellence. Chris Taylor, Vistech’s Managing Director said “We continuously strive for excellence in all of our business operations, identifying and implementing pioneering solutions that enhance the services we provide.” In line with this commitment, Vistech have announced the latest product, now available to their clients, V-Guard.
With V-Guard, the firm’s clients can seamlessly manage and receive real-time alerts via an intuitive application, placing control directly at their fingertips. This innovative feature ensures swift response times and heightened vigilance, enhancing overall security protocols.

Moreover, V-Guard operates sustainably, powered by 12v Solar with Built-in Battery Backup, aligning with Vistech’s commitment to eco-conscious practices. By reducing reliance on traditional power sources, clients can enjoy enhanced security while minimizing their environmental footprint—a win-win situation for both security and sustainability.

Furthermore, V-Guard’s swift deployment and setup feature minimises downtime and expedites the implementation of security measures, ensuring maximum coverage without sacrificing operational efficiency. This rapid response capability is crucial in today’s dynamic security landscape, where swift action can mean the difference between prevention and vulnerability.

From a financial standpoint, V-Guard offers unparalleled value for Vistech’s clients, presenting a more economical alternative to traditional fixed systems. By delivering superior security at a fraction of the cost, Vistech empowers clients to fortify their sites without straining their budgets—a testament to the firm’s commitment to providing accessible and effective security solutions.
Additionally, V-Guard offers flexible agreements tailored to meet diverse security needs and budgetary considerations. Whether clients require short-term or long-term arrangements, Vistech ensures that every client can access the benefits of V-Guard’s advanced security features without compromise.

Chris Taylor, Managing Director of Vistech, emphasized the significance of V-Guard in elevating client security experiences, stating, “V-Guard represents a shift in site security, empowering our clients with state-of-the-art technology and unparalleled protection. At Vistech, we are dedicated to delivering excellence to our clients, and V-Guard is a testament to that commitment.”

As Vistech continues to prioritise innovation and client satisfaction, V-Guard shows Vistech’s dedication to providing cutting-edge security solutions. With its seamless management capabilities, eco-conscious operation, robust construction, rapid deployment, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility, V-Guard sets a new benchmark for site security excellence, solidifying Vistech’s position as a leader in the industry.

In addition to its innovative V-Guard technology, Vistech prides itself on offering a comprehensive array of supplementary services to enhance the security experience for its clients. With a steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of client assets, Vistech provides remote monitoring through its state-of-the-art 24/7 Control Room, staffed by NSI Gold-certified professionals located in Middlesbrough. This round-the-clock surveillance offers clients peace of mind, knowing that their properties are under constant watch by highly trained experts.

Furthermore, as an SSAIB Certified installer, Vistech holds priority response status with the Cleveland Police, ensuring rapid assistance in critical situations. Additionally, Vistech’s fleet of branded patrolling vehicles, deployed throughout the North East region, adds a visible layer of security, deterring potential threats and providing a sense of security for clients. These supplementary services, coupled with Vistech’s commitment to real-time alarm response reporting, regular maintenance checks, and unlimited relocations when needed, demonstrate our dedication to delivering comprehensive security solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of our clients.

For businesses seeking to enhance their site security and embrace the future of security technology, V-Guard promises unmatched performance and peace of mind. Contact Vistech today to learn more about how V-Guard can transform your security infrastructure and safeguard your assets. Call 0800 6123 280 or email enquiries@vistechservices.co.uk

Vistech Training Introduces Convenient Payment Options with PayPal Pay Later for Security Courses

In a purposeful move aimed at enhancing accessibility and flexibility for its valued customers, Vistech Training is excited to announce the integration of PayPal, Pay Later as a payment option for its comprehensive security training courses.

Recognising the importance of empowering individuals and organisations with high-quality security knowledge and skills, Vistech Training is committed to removing barriers to entry. The introduction of PayPal Pay Later adds a layer of convenience, allowing prospective learners to take advantage of training opportunities without immediate financial strain.

Key Features of PayPal Pay Later with Vistech Training:

1. Flexible Payment Plans: PayPal Pay Later offers users the flexibility to spread the cost of their security training courses over time, providing a budget-friendly approach to professional development.
2. Interest-Free Options: Learners can take advantage of interest-free instalment plans, ensuring that pursuing high-quality security education remains economically viable.
3. Simple and Secure Process: The payment process is streamlined and secure, aligning with Vistech Training’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for its clients.
4. Quick Approval: Applicants can benefit from quick and straightforward approval processes, enabling them to enrol in their desired security courses promptly.
5. No Hidden Fees: With PayPal Pay Later, there are no hidden fees or surprises, ensuring transparency in financial transactions.

Chris Taylor, Managing Director of Vistech Training, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, stating, “At Vistech Training, we believe that quality security education should be accessible to all. The integration of PayPal Pay Later aligns with our commitment to making professional development a reality for individuals and organisations seeking to enhance their security skills.”

Prospective learners interested in enrolling in Vistech Training’s security courses can now take advantage of this user-friendly payment option, opening doors to a world of opportunities in the field of security.

For further information or to explore the range of security training courses offered by Vistech Training, please visit www.vistechtraining.co.uk or contact our dedicated training team at 0800 6123 280.

Vistech Training continues to lead the way in providing innovative solutions, ensuring that everyone can benefit from high-quality security education without compromising financial flexibility.

Vistech featured on the expert panel at the Tees Business Live event

Vistech’s Operations Director, Paul Heeran, was honoured to join the panel for the Speed Kings: Building a Fast-Growing Business Tees Business Live event in November. The event organised by Tees Business in collaboration with Recruitrite featured Vistech’s Paul Heeran, alongside representatives from Wilton Engineering and Double Eleven all recipients of VelociTees awards earlier this year for their remarkable growth.

Recruitrite, the event’s sponsors and Darlington-based recruitment specialists, had their Managing Director, Melissa Coutts, represent them on the panel. Melissa was also recognised in the Inspiring Others category at the Tees Businesswomen Awards 2023.

With over 80 attendees at AV Dawson’s Middlesbrough headquarters, The Staiths, the lunchtime event provided a platform for networking before the expert panel delved into various business topics, including the challenges associated with rapid growth.

Paul Heeran highlighted that the company’s mindset is driven by the ambition of Managing Director Chris Taylor. He stated, “Chris says, ‘This is what we want to do, Paul. How are we going to do it?’ I have a fantastic team behind me, so I take on board what they feel and think. Some firms say they haven’t got a plan, but we need to have one. We have a fantastic mobilization plan—everyone’s involved in every part of that plan. We plan it out, we act, we ‘do,’ we review. We’ve always followed that process, and it works really well for us.”

As one of the North East’s fastest-growing businesses, Vistech shared insights and experiences on accelerating business growth. Our team were honoured to contribute to the dynamic discussions and engage with fellow industry leaders at the Tees Business Live event. We look forward to continued collaboration and shared success in fostering innovation and growth in the business landscape of the Teesside and the North East.

Vistech proudly sponsoring the MFC Foundation Annual Dinner for a third year

Vistech Services are committed to supporting the MFC Foundation. As a friend of the foundation since 2018, we are now into our third year as a Gold Member and main sponsor of the foundation’s annual dinner.

We pride ourselves on being an active member of the local community and are committed to supporting the residents across our region. The foundation’s projects and initiatives across Teesside operate in some of the region’s most disadvantaged areas and we support their mission to raise aspirations and improve the life chances of our people across our local communities.

In addition to our friend of the foundation membership, we also support individual projects such as the Genesis Project, which serves children, young people and families of the Grove-Hill estate and surrounding areas.

Chris Taylor, Vistech Group of Companies, Founder and CEO said: “Sponsoring the foundation’s annual dinner is a privilege, we are extremely proud to sponsor the event for the third consecutive year. The annual dinner is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the success and achievements of the foundation and those supported by the charity.”

“Corporate responsibility remains at the forefront of our plans for the future of Vistech. We focus strongly on ensuring the residents of the communities in which we work, especially those who have fallen on hard times, have opportunities readily available to support them in securing a better life and life choices.”

Vistech proud to sponsor Best New Tees Business Award for a third time

Vistech – whose operations director Paul Heeran is pictured with Tees Business director Dave Allan – has sponsored the Best New Community Champions category since the Best New Tees Business Awards began.

It’s a category that recognises a business or organisation established since November 2020 for its true community spirit.

Last year’s winner, for example, Middlesbrough’s Helping Hands, supports those in deprivation with such things as food, clothes, free haircuts, agency advice and even a non-judgemental social area for people to chat.

And given the high calibre of this year’s finalists – Yarm Wellness, Clean Slate Solutions and Close-Knit – whoever wins will be a worthy successor.

Explaining Vistech’s sponsorship, managing director Chris Taylor said: “Vistech are proud sponsors of the Best New Community Champions Award for the third consecutive year.

“We have witnessed first-hand the quality of the finalists and winners, their stories and the positive impact their work and initiatives have made across the Tees Valley during this time.

“Therefore it is an honour to sponsor a category that recognises companies who support our community.”

The third annual Best New Tees Business Awards will take place on Thursday, November 9 in the Kirkleatham Walled Garden Pavilion.

Organised by Tees Business in association with headline sponsor Additional Lengths, up to 300 guests will attend what’s become established as a true celebration of our region’s brilliant new entrepreneurs and businesses.

Vistech secures triple gold award from National Security Inspectorate

Vistech Security achieved the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Guarding Gold standard at the first attempt in 2022, recognising the firm as meeting the highest technical standard, in the industry. Following another successful audit in 2023, Vistech have achieved two more Gold Standard Certifications from the National Security Inspectorate for Environment Management Systems and Health and Safety.

The Environmental Standard BS EN ISO 14001 is designed to help companies ensure environmental management is considered strategically within the business. The standard helps companies minimise their impact on the environment and help ensure legal obligations are met.

Achieving NSI’s Gold approval demonstrates Vistech’s commitment to considering the environment in all their operations whilst striving for continual improvement in their environmental performance.
Chris Taylor Vistech’s Managing Director said, “achieving NSI Gold status for our environment management and health and safety management systems is another proud moment for us, we strive to set new industry standards in all aspects of our business and identify and implement innovations that enhance our services.”

“Where possible we use renewable technologies to deliver our services and encourage our clients to choose more environmentally friendly security solutions.” Vistech provide a range of security solutions renewable technologies which include state-of-the-art solar powered CCTV systems. Chris said, “the use of solar powered CCTV solutions has led to significant energy savings for our customers in addition to reducing their carbon footprint and improving the sustainability of the security services we provide.”

In February the firm received the VelociTees Award for Job Creation, for generating jobs in the Tees Valley in response to the firm’s success and growth. Chris said “one of the most effective ways to reduce the need to travel and encourage low and zero carbon modes of transport to reduce emissions is through local recruitment.”

“We make it our mission to support the local community in which we operate. Recruiting locally hugely benefits the region, encouraging reinvestment and also supports our sustainability plan to protect the region.”
In addition to the firm’s gold status for Environmental Management Systems accreditation, they also achieved gold certification for the Occupational Health and Safety, BS ISO 45001 accreditation. This accreditation standard steers organisations to achieve safe working conditions, prevent work-related injury/ill health, and to meet all legal obligations. The certification demonstrates the company commitment to the health and wellbeing of employees in all their operations whilst striving for continual improvement in their performance.

In response to achieving the NSI approval which is the hallmark of excellence for providers of security services, Chris said, “ensuring the health and safety of our employees is extremely important to us, we adopt the latest technologies in order to accomplish this.”

As standard the firm issues all employees with lone worker protection apps, managed by their 24-hour, state-of-the-art control room, based in Middlesbrough. Chris said, “In addition to providing this service to our employees, we have also seen an increase in our clients adopt this service to protect their own employees, this can be anything from care assistants conducting house calls to tradesmen who often work alone.”

When asked what makes Vistech stand out in terms of it’s health and safety management Paul Heeran Vistech’s Operation Director said “we conduct detailed reviews of all sites prior to deploying our security officers, providing them with specialist equipment which can include body cameras or stab vests. Every client and site if different, we take the time to get to know the customer and their requirements to ensure the safety of our employees.”

The NSI’s Health and Safety and Environment Management Systems schemes are designed for companies who meet the industry’s highest technical standards and maintain a commitment to continual improvement.

Request a quote or further information on Vistech’s security services, call 08006123280 or email enquiries@vistechservices.co.uk

Vistech’s NSI Gold Standard 24 Hour Control Room and Alarm Response Services

Vistech operate a state-of-the-art, NSI Gold approved, 24 Hour Control Room which is in constant contact with our sites and security officers 365 days a year.

Our NSI Gold approval confirms Vistech’s commitment to quality ensuring our 24-Hour Control Room is equipped with latest industry-leading technology and an advanced operational management system. The NSI Gold approval hallmark is the most widely recognised mark of approval in security and fire safety. Being an NSI Gold approved security company confirms that Vistech are technically competent, professional and trusted within the security industry.

We offer remote monitoring services of CCTV, intruder and firm alarm systems, access control and key holding. The Vistech 24 Control Room team handles more than 15,000 alarm signals, CCTV activations, access control requests, lone worker check calls and emergency response requests every month.

The integrated approach of our 24-hour Control Room supports our industry leading emergency alarm response times, as our highly trained SIA Licensed Security Officers are deployed directly from our Control Room to sites across the UK.

What is alarm response?

A security alarm response is a service where our SIA Licenced security officers respond directly to alarm activations at your business premises, and they will conduct an internal and external site inspection to identify the cause of the alarm and if there are any visible signs of intrusion or damage, they will escalate the incident further following agreed site security assignment instructions.

Why do I need an alarm response service?

Alongside key holding and mobile patrols, alarm response should be part of your business security strategy. If you have an incident at your business premises, whether that be a break in, a fire or weather damage, you shouldn’t have to put yourself at risk of harm by attending.

Responding to alarms can be potentially dangerous and, in an emergency, it’s best to have a qualified, SIA licenced security professional to keep your business secure.

Why should you choose Vistech Services?

As an Approved Contractor for the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and the National Security Inspectorate, we deliver high quality services to all our clients. We strive to set new industry standards in all aspects of our business and we identify and implement innovations that enhance our services.

At Vistech Services we deliver a high-quality client-focused approach as standard, working 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to meet and exceed service expectations.

Contact us on 08006123280 or enquiries@vistechservices.co.uk to discuss your alarm response requirements or for a free quotation.

Vistech Supports Security Minds Matter Project

The Security Minds Matter project aims to make a positive difference to Mental Health and Wellbeing in the security sector. Independent, but supported by the SIA (Security Industry Authority), they aim to keep awareness of mental ill health high and reduce stigma.

Vistech are committed to supporting our employees and those working within the security industry across the UK. Check calls are standard practise for our security officers through our industry leading app technology and 24-hour control room, these routine checks are particularly important for lone workers and officers on high-risk sites to have the reassurance of an expert team behind them. We’ve found this has a hugely positive impact on stress levels and overall mental health of our employees.

Vistech Training have also launched a new training programme for 2023, delivering the Level 2 Award, Introduction to First Aid for Mental Health training. The role of a first aider for mental health is to provide basic mental health support or to be the first response to someone in need, usually in the workplace. For more information visit > https://vistechtraining.co.uk/first-aid-for-mental-health-training-course/

If you require support, there are many organisations and charities that can support you including the following:

National Health Service
Every Mind Matters – advice from the NHS
NHS – Get support from a mental health charity

Samaritans Call 116 123 (UK) Every 10 seconds, Samaritans responds to a call for help.

Mind provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.

Port Contract Win

Another prestigious contract success for award-winning Vistech

Middlesbrough-based security firm Visetch’s outstanding approach to customer care and experience, working with clients across a variety of
sectors nationally, has helped secure another prestigious contract. The new five-year, £1.5m deal will see Vistech deliver security services to an
expanding 250-plus acre site in the Tees Valley port area, providing 24-hour security personnel and monitoring a state-of-the-art CCTV system.

Vistech’s managing director Chris Taylor says: “This is an excellent win for Vistech and we’re very proud to have this prestigious account. We will be providing a high-profile security presence at the port, with fully trained and experienced personnel providing a high level of customer service,
efficiency, commitment and performance.”

Operations director Paul Heeran says: “We are extremely proud and honoured to secure this site. It was an extensive tender process that started back in March 2021, and we were successful because of our customer-focused approach. We conducted a full audit of the security services before proposing our plans to implement effective security solutions and improving security solutions and improving security processes cost-effectively for our client.”

“One of our key strengths is our industry-leading accreditations, including NSI Gold, which give our customers the assurance that we continue to offer and provide the very best security services.”

Vistech undergoes an extensive review of its procedures and processes every six months to ensure adherence to ISO accreditations. The company’s National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold status recognises its compliance with several British Standards, including the provision of static site guarding, keyholding ad response and mobile security services. Vistech also adheres to the British standard around screening and
vetting of individuals and the NSI standard for control room services, in addition to the ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certificate.

Vistech is also supporting its new client nationally, installing and monitoring wireless CCTV systems as it developes other sites across the UK – one of which will soon be one of Europe’s newest and largest multi-user port facilities.

The Partnership between Vistech Services and sister company Vistech Training, which specialises in industry-leading security training initiatives, is another key factor in the firm’s success in securing this latest contract. Visetch Training focuses on delivering high-calibre training and mentoring with a real route to progression within employment and it supports the firm by enabling it to fulfill security assignments with highly trained security personnel.

In 2020 Vistech Training launched an industry-recognised training programme, the Department for Transport Approved Port Facility Security Officer course. This course provides learner with the comprehensive knowledge to enable them to take on the duties and responsibilities as defined in the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. Chris says: “Launching the Port Facility Security Officer course is in response to the growth across the Tees Valley port. It’s part of our commitment to supporting the local community. As investment in the region continues, we anticipate seeing further growth in our local ports. Vistech are leading the way by providing industry-recognised training, equipping the residents of the Tees Valley with the knowledge and skills to secure employment in port security.”

As Teesside’s fastest-growing security company and one of the fastest-growing companies in the North-East, Visetch’s rapid growth and success have been recognised with several prestigious awards. These include being double winnersat the inaugural VelociTees ceremony held to celebrate the Tees region’s fastest-growing businesses in terms of turnover and job creation. In addition, the firm has also featured in Ward Hadaway’s Fastest 50 awards for two consecutive years, achieving a top ten position. Earlier this year Vistech was a Tees Business of the Year finalist at the Tees Business Awards, more recognition of the firm’s success over recent years.

Visetch prides itself on its forward-thinking approach to business and is already looking ahead to supporting further growth across the Tees Valley region.