Creative Kirklees / News / Wed 19 Jul 2017
Local Event Organisers beware cloned SIA licences
Festival and event organisers are being asked to be vigilant as there have been instances recently of cloned SIA licences being used by security staff. The SIA badges displayed a genuine name and licence number but a photograph of the unlicensed bearer.
There is a national shortage of SIA staff due changes in wage structures. When the National Wage came in the difference in hourly rates between stewards and SIA was greatly reduced so now staff don't want to take on the extra responsibility. This shortage of SIA staff is likely to be the main reason for these fraudulent licences.
In addition there have also been claims of ‘ghosting’ on event sites – ie the number of SIA staff you count in at your event is not the number who are present on site for the duration of the event.
Should you have any concerns, please go to; https://www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/Pages/contact-us.aspx - on this site you can check SIA licences and report any concerns and issues.