Private Security in London to Police Protests

Private Security in London to Police Protests

Private security companies in London could replace the role of the Met Police during protest marches in London, as protesters are told to hire private security for traffic control and event stewarding. We’ve all been inconvenienced by a protest at some point in our lives, and the cost to tax payers runs into the many thousands of pounds for each event. So should Britain now pay to protest?

London is a real hotbed for protests, not a week goes by without some group, country, religion or organisation protesting about something, that quite frankly has nothing to do with London, let alone Britain! So why should British tax payers be left standing with the bill? and why should local communities suffer when police resources are diverted to police the protest?

The Guardian Newspaper reports: “The right to stage demonstrations in Britain could be threatened following a demand that climate change protesters planning a march next month hire a private firm to oversee it – a role previously carried out by the police.

New, more restrictive, interpretations of traffic laws, coupled with constrained policing budgets, lie behind the Met’s decision. A large protest, which will block off roads, requires a temporary traffic regulation order to ensure public safety is maintained and congestion managed. However, Westminster council says it will issue an order only when the organisers of the march have produced a traffic management plan outlining who will steward the event and how”.

Surely if protesters are so passionate about their cause, a 50p or £1 donation per head to cover the cost of traffic marshals and event security guards, is not an unreasonable request. Private security companies in London, like Westminster Security, have plenty of experience in event security management, with many of their security guards having experience at the Olympics, Royal Wedding and Queens Golden Jubilee celebrations.

A Met spokeswoman said the police’s core responsibilities were “preventing and detecting crime, maintenance of the Queen’s Peace and protecting life and property”. She said that because the proposed demonstration, on 7 March, was expected to be crime-free there was little requirement for it to provide a policing operation.

Westminster Security have confirmed that if they where asked to police an event such as the Campaign Against Climate Change, they would liaise with the Met Police and Transport For London to develop an efficient traffic management system which would least impact road users and provide maximum security for both protesters and the public, providing physical and asset protection.

If you would like to enquire about private security in London, please visit our Event Security Page for further details. Or call Westminster Security on 0208 123 3323 or 0755 4000 300

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/private-security-in-london-to-police-protests/

Close Protection Bodyguards in Paris - Will the recent terrorist attacks in Paris put holiday makers off?

Close Protection bodyguards in Paris are becoming an evermore common sight around the city. In light of the recent terrorist attacks and the heightened terrorist threat currently on going in France, Paris has become a hotbed of activity for close protection teams and bodyguards to operate.

Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, fashion designers and luxury brands. It’s no surprise then that Paris attracts millions of tourists every year from all over the world, and continues to do so despite France being on its highest ever security alert.

There’s no hiding from the fact that France is at war with ‘Islamic extremists’, with French Nationals travelling back from Iraq and Syria to wage war on the country’s streets. The moment you arrive at Paris CDG airport, you will see groups of heavily armed police and soldiers patrolling the terminal. Upon your arrival into Paris, you will see armed police and soldiers stationed at tourist attractions, government buildings and patrolling the streets.

Whilst in theory, you are probably safer now in Paris than ever before, the police and security services are at breaking point, and it’s not known how long this current ‘show-of-force’ can last. The police have taken their eyes off the ball with regards to general lower level street crime, they simply don’t have the manpower to cope. They’re concentrating on terrorist related crime, looking for that mysterious ‘lone wolf’ attacker, awaiting the unpredictable.

Therefore, street crime in Paris is rife and unsuspecting tourists are their main target. Pickpocket gangs and distraction thieves are using complicated, well-practised routines to easily relieve you of your money and possessions. Smart phones are the easy target, with gangs utilising scooters for a quick getaway.

Scams to be aware of

When using an ATM, a young child will distract you by pulling on your trouser leg. An accomplice adult on your other side will withdraw the highest amount of cash possible. If they can grab it and get away, they will. Or the ‘parent’ of the child will grab it as you’re distracted by the accomplice.

A ‘lost tourist’ will ask you for directions on their map, whilst you are concentrating on the map, the tourist will attempt to pick pocket you, using the map as cover. An accomplice may also target your bag or rucksack at the same time. If you are distracted by one, the other will pounce. If you are unlucky, both will be successful.

Someone asking you for the time, a cigarette or lighter – simply a way for them to get close and for your hands and eyes to be busy whilst they mug you. Usually operate in a gang of 3 to overwhelm their victims.
The accidental spillage – a distraction thief will ‘accidentally on purpose’ spill water or ice cream on you. As they are busy apologising and wiping you down, they may also be robbing you with an accomplice riffling through your bags.

Personal Security Tips

• Be wary of anyone in shops, cafes and bars carrying a coat over their arm, this is used to conceal their hands so they can dip into people’s pockets, bags and steal jackets off the back of chairs.

• Do not use your smartphone in public.

• Use ATM’s inside banks, keep your cash hidden.

• Keep your wallet and valuables on your person.

• Do not store anything in your jacket or back pockets.

• Keep your bag in front of you at all times.

• Do not give money to street beggars.

• Do not play any street gambling games.

• Or you could simply hire a close protection team or Individual bodyguard to protect you, your family and your valuables.

Westminster Security services in Paris

Westminster Security have vast experience operating around Europe, France and Paris in Particular. We provide premier security solutions to all our clients. This may include, but not limited too;

Security Advance Party - We will send a security team ahead of your arrival to book hotels, cars and restaurants. We can also arrange VIP arrival services at the airport, and even provide the cars! The security team will liaise with all the service providers to make sure your visit is smooth and efficient.

Security Chauffeurs - Along with providing luxury chauffeured vehicles of your choice, we can also provide local security trained chauffeurs who not only know the roads, hotels and restaurants inside out. But they are also security aware and able to react to any threats and risks posed to us whilst travelling.

Bodyguards - Whether you need just one bodyguard in Paris, male or female, or a full close protection team. Our experience and quality of service stands us head and shoulders above the rest.

Surveillance teams - Should the threat and risks be deemed high enough, we can also utilise a surveillance team to watch over us and into and around our immediate environment. They see the bigger picture, which may give us vital seconds to react in an emergency.

We can also provide tour guides, child minders, chefs and interpreters, almost anything you require, we can provide.

Close Protection Bodyguards in Paris

At Westminster Security, we only employ the highest trained former military and police close protection specialists who have vast experience in providing an exemplary service. All of our bodyguards in France are CNAPS registered and multi-lingual. We can provide both male and female bodyguards in Paris for your personal protection. We have operational experience in Reims, Paris, Lyon, Nice – Cannes and Monaco. If you would require close protection bodyguard services in Paris or France, please contact us for a free initial security consultation.

Contact Westminster Security today to enquire about our Close Protection services in Paris.

Call us on: +44 (0)208 123 3323 or +44 (0)755 4000 300

Or complete our enquiry form and one of our security consultants will get back to you.

Frequently asked questions

I am travelling to Paris on business and require a local chaperone who can drive me about, assist me and also provide personal security to me. Can you provide an English and French speaking bodyguard?

• Yes, certainly. All of our bodyguards in Paris provide this service as standard, we will happily assist.

My family and I are travelling to Paris for our vacation from the US this summer, we are very disturbed by the recent terrorist attacks, so I am looking for a private security company to take care of us throughout.

• Do not worry, we can make sure your holiday is smooth and safe. Our bodyguards in Paris can accompany you discretely providing complete all round personal protection at all times.

Do you have any Arabic speaking bodyguards in Paris to accompany my wife for a week of shopping and dining?

• Yes we do! We have local Arabic speaking male and female bodyguards in Paris to protect and assist your wife during her visit. I assure you she is in safe hands. Please contact us to hire a bodyguard in Paris.

www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/close-protection-bodyguards-in-paris/

What makes the perfect bodyguard in London?

The Perfect Bodyguard in London

What makes the Perfect Bodyguard in London? Most people associate the word ‘bodyguard’ with the giant man mountain, often seen babysitting celebrities in the States. Or Kevin Costner style gun toting Hollywood heart throbs. The reality is, both types of these bodyguards fit a role, just not in London.

This months guest blog is written by a former British Special Forces soldier who works for Westminster Security and wishes to remain anonymous. He has vast experience providing close protection around the world through his time in the military, with over 15 years experience in the private sector, predominantly operating as an individual close protection bodyguard in London.

At Westminster Security, when a new client calls us to enquire about our close protection services in London, they often ask; how big is he? How tall is he? Is he a good fighter? I have to kindly explain to them that none of these factors come into consideration when it comes to placing an operative to protect them. What does matter is manners, intelligence, observation skills, forward planning, people skills, etiquette and local knowledge. Not fast cars, muscles and guns!

Bodyguards in London are now commonly referred to as ‘Close Protection Operatives’ or CPOs. The title projects an image of professionalism, whereas ‘Bodyguard’ sounds a lot more intimidating and some might say thuggish.

Types of Bodyguard

The giant sized Man Mountain – As mentioned preciously, this type of bodyguard is often seen gracing the glossy tabloid magazine pages, pictured manhandling fans or carrying designer shopping bags for their tiny celebrity principals, who are dwarfed in their shadows. Their waistlines are bigger than their egos, and they’re as effective as solar powered torches. However, record labels and celebs love them as they feel safe hiding behind them, and they grab the headlines.

Muscle bound meat heads – The type of bodyguard who has waited 10 years to get his SIA licence due to the murder charge on his record. An old school doorman with more scars and tattoos than teeth, a man who could kill you with his breath alone. Fortunately this type of bodyguard normally ply their trade on the doors at the local pub, wooing punters with their CP badge of honour, and tales of heroics. Seldom do you see them on the catwalks of Knightsbridge and Chelsea, they certainly look lost at sea during afternoon tea at The Ritz.

The car salesman – Fresh off his close protection course, armed with his quick tongue and spikey hair, ill-fitting supermarket suit, shiny faux leather shoes, pink shirt, brash tie and sunglasses. He knows everything and is better than every other bodyguard and he’s keen, ready and eager to show you – by beating you in an arm wrestle over lunch. Like a rabbit in the headlights on sight of their first street beggar, but tells his Facebook friends he fought off an armed gang. Luckily these newbies get found out quick, and end up doing nights on a building site for the rest of their glittering security careers.

The grey man – He is your perfect bodyguard in London, he is neither a man mountain, meat head nor car salesman. He is professional, he blends in, keeps his mouth closed and ears open. He speaks when spoken to and is polite to everyone. He fits in at a Michelin star restaurant, just as well as in a busy nightclub. He has good local knowledge and connections, he is mature with a good sense of humour. He is thinking 10 steps ahead, and can take control of any situation with ease. He is effective and he is respected for his results, not his stories. He is versatile, adaptable and proactive. He has a military or police background in close protection, he is who you want as your bodyguard in London.

Westminster Security in London

At Westminster Security, we provide highly sought after, professional close protection operatives. All of our CPO’s have backgrounds in the British Military and Police specialist protection units. We believe that their training and experience is priceless, which helps them and us stand out above other security companies for all the right reasons.

We only employ the most experienced and qualified close protection operatives with proven exemplary backgrounds. They are all rigorously financially and security vetted for your peace of mind. They are all trained in advanced driving, first aid, conflict resolution and self-defence.

We provide a complete, premier protection service. Including but not limited to; security chauffeured luxury vehicles, residential security and concierge services. Our clients include royalty, celebrities, company CEOs and high-net-worth families. We are well practiced in providing a high end service for the fast paced demanding lifestyles of our clients. We operate with complete discretion and efficiency.

Find out more about our close protection bodyguards in London by clicking here.

Contact Westminster Security today to enquire about our Close Protection Bodyguard services in London.

Call us on: 0208 123 3323 or 0755 4000 300

Close Protection FAQ’s

Do you have female bodyguards in London?

-          Yes, we can provide a wide range of female bodyguards to suit all your needs. We have female bodyguards who are also trained in childcare, and others who are multilingual. Please contact us with your individual requirements and we will do our utmost to assist you.

Can my bodyguard also double as my driver?

-          Yes, all of our close protection operatives are trained in advanced defensive driving. All of whom have vast experience chauffeuring our ‘Best of British’ fleet, which includes; Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaguar and Range Rover vehicles.

I need to hire bodyguards in London, what is the procedure?

-          Once we receive your call or email we will discuss your individual requirements and conduct an initial threat and risk assessment to figure out the best systems to put in place to mitigate the threats and risks posed to you. We will then assign a bodyguard or close protection team for your personal protection. Please contact us for further information.

www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/the-perfect-bodyguard-in-london/

Female Bodyguards in London - Westminster Security London

Female Bodyguards – Carly Field Interview

Female Bodyguards in London are becoming evermore popular with international visitors, often being selected over their male counterparts, especially for female Arab clients. Female close protection operatives are few and far between, but are a real asset to any close protection team. The majority of them having backgrounds in the military and police force, which stands them in good stead when entering the private security industry.

Westminster Security would like to introduce you to Carly Field. Carly Served 17 years in the Royal Logistic Corps of the British Army, reaching the rank of Corporal. She completed several operational tours including; Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo. She has deployed all over the world in support of front line combat troops, including the planning and coordination of troop and equipment movements. Ensuring that health and safety procedures were being implemented.

Carly decided to leave the Army late last year and decided to take up the challenge of close protection. So we wanted to interview her to find out why she took the big brave step, how she’s finding ‘civvie street’, her experiences so far, and any advice she has for other budding female bodyguards.

Hi Carly, first of all thank you for agreeing to this interview, we promise to go easy on you. So tell us, with just 5 years to push before completing a full career in the Army, why did you decide to leave?

Good question. People think I’m crazy (including my husband) for leaving so close to getting a full pension but I wasn’t happy there was no quality of life, well there was but 6 weeks a year when my husband and I would get leave together. Too many changes, the Calibre of soldier had changed and there isn’t the respect there any more. I remember at my first unit the Sergeant would be away in the mess all time or golfing etc. and you think to yourself I’m going to work hard to achieve that, you aspired to be that person. Then I got selected for Sergeant and spent 12 months sat behind a desk, it made me realise I loved being on the ground not a SNCO (Senior Non-Commissioned Officer), and I signed off. I didn’t want to be a pension prisoner and unhappy. I’m a great believer in you’re in charge of your own destiny. Don’t moan do something about it.

It’s a very brave decision leaving the comfort and safety of the Armed Forces in these uncertain times, and becoming self-employed. What made you choose close protection for your new career?

I met a few CP guys on tour in Afghan and they influenced me slightly. It’s always been in the back of my mind. I think it could be that no day is the same, there is travel involved which I still enjoy. The different variety of tasks, meeting all types of people from different backgrounds, networking with people you wouldn’t normally have contact with. Was it risky giving it a go when the market is flooded? probably but that wasn’t going to put me off, I did my research and it was very mixed and varied from ‘they’re desperate for females’ ‘Good females are like gold dust’ to ‘don’t bother you won’t get anywhere the industry is flooded my hubby works the circuit’ and ‘yes they are desperate for females but they don’t use them’. I called various companies and training companies to find out for myself, and I really wanted to pursue it what was the worst that can happen? I tried my best and if it doesn’t work out, it doesn’t matter there are plenty of other jobs out there and at least I can say I gave it a go.

Quite right, nothing ventured nothing gained. The security industry seems like a natural progression for ex service personnel, the skills and experience gained are highly transferable. What advice would you offer anyone who is looking at leaving the military and entering the private security industry, is the grass greener?

The grass isn’t always greener no but then it depends on your reasons why you got out, everyone is different. For me the grass was greener to an extent, ok I’m not getting a wage same day every month guaranteed, but I’m enjoying the varied experiences. I think I made the right decision for myself and family.  My advise to those still in; ensure you get as many courses under your belt prior to signing off, and try and make yourself stand out in comparison to others – something that will jump out on a CV.  I was lucky speaking fluent French helped me get my current task which I started 3 weeks after getting out which is fantastic, I know I was very fortunate.

Well done, that’s great news, you certainly landed on your feet. Being multilingual is certainly a highly desirable skill. Do you have any plans to attend any further training in the future?

Yes I’ve enrolled for the online Open University Introduction to Cyber Security. We do everything online these days so I’m interested in how to protect ourselves more.

I will look at doing the Open source Int level 3 course when work permits. Then I’ll be looking at Spanish language as I think it’s a natural progression from French as they are very similar.

Best of luck on your courses. When customers call us enquiring about female bodyguards in London, they often ask; “how big is she…can she fight?” Does size really matter? 

There’s a common misconception that someone’s size represents their ability to perform a role. Today’s modern bodyguards are more about diplomacy and etiquette, blending in not attracting any undue attention. Then stepping up and taking control should a situation arise.

Thank you for taking the time to speak with us Carly, we wish you the best of luck in your new career. You have certainly got off to a flying start and we can tell you will be successful and highly sought after. We will certainly be using you in the near future.

If you would like to connect with Carly, please visit here LinkedIn profile by clicking here.

If you would like to hire female bodyguards, please contact us on +44 (0)208 123 3323 or +44 (0)755 4000 300

Wedding Security Guards in London

Wedding Security guards in London

Wedding security in London is becoming an evermore popular ‘must have’ on the wedding list, for security conscious couples who are looking for that extra something to guarantee their big day runs to perfection, without any undesirables spoiling it or any unpleasant situations arising on the day.

At Westminster Security, we have vast experience providing event security in London. When we mention wedding security and security guards at weddings in general, we are often met with a look of confusion. But we simply explain; it’s the most important and expensive day of your life, why wouldn’t you hire security?

You have planned and saved for your wedding for years, it’s the one day you expect and deserve perfection. Our wedding security guards can help your dream day become a reality. Easing the burden of stress and providing complete peace of mind, you can kick back, relax and enjoy your big day to the fullest.

Westminster Security provide wedding security guards in London and throughout the UK, we have also provided this service throughout Europe and on occasion further afield for our customers.

Our wedding security guards are all former British Military Personnel or ex-Police Officers. We believe the training and experience they have gained in the forces, stands them head and shoulders above the rest. And equips them with the right skills and standards to provide an exemplary security and customer service for you.

Do I need security at my wedding?

People hire wedding security guards for a number of reasons, it may not be primarily to prevent theft, but also to prevent violence or damage to property. Your venue might also insist on you having security for insurance reasons, to prevent damage to furniture, fixtures and fittings.

Some of the most common reasons we’re asked include; stalking or threats of violence and disruption from a jealous ex-partner, friend or colleague. Feuding families or friends, and unruly guests. Prevention of gatecrashers and theft of expensive property and gifts. Or simply for general peace of mind, all of our security guards are also trained in first-aid and customer service. Another quality that helps us stand out for all the right reasons above our competitors.

If you’re thinking, or contemplating about hiring security for your wedding, it probably means you need it. Remember, prevention is better than cure.

Read what one of our recent brides has to say about us:

Testimonial

I was thinking about hiring security for my wedding day as an ex had found out everything and promised to spoil my day, I searched ‘wedding security’ on Google and came across Westminster Security. After speaking with them, a huge weight was lifted from me, they were very professional and informative about the whole process. I was now looking forward, rather than worrying.

On the day, I couldn’t have asked for anything more, they really made me feel safe and special, even providing plasters for my heals! All of my guests complimented their smart appearance, friendliness and all round professionalism. Calling them was my best decision, I only wish I had called them earlier.

Thank you so much for everything you did, I can’t thank you enough. – Emma, London.

Wedding security services

Westminster Security can provide a discreet or high visibility security service, even a combination of the two. Including; undercover guests who will blend in unobtrusively, or smartly uniformed security guards who can meet and greet, providing a friendly point of contact for your guests, whilst ensuring no undesirables gain entry to your ceremony or reception venues.

Security at your wedding ceremony

Our wedding security guards will arrive well before any guests to conduct thorough searches of the venue and grounds, making sure no undesirables are lay in wait for your arrival. We will clear and secure the venue, controlling access by way of checking a guest list or wedding invites at the gate or door.

Upon your arrival, we will control your debus point making sure no-one gets near you, escorting you discreetly to your ceremony entrance. Effectively providing close protection, without getting in the photographers way. Once you are inside, we will control all access points and conduct regular patrols of the grounds. At least one security guard, usually an undercover guest, will remain inside the venue giving internal cover and communicating with the security team outside.

During your photographs, we will continue our security procedures being careful not to appear in or disrupt any pictures. On your departure to your reception, we will discreetly escort you to your wedding car, this is where the undercover guest comes in handy again.

Security at your wedding reception

Same as your wedding ceremony venue, your wedding security guards will arrive well before any guests to liaise with staff and conduct searches. They will control access to the venue, and meet your guests at the main entrance to check invites or your guest list. The security guards will also be on hand to assist in directions to the toilets, cloak room and more importantly, the bar!

Again, upon your arrival the security guards will discreetly control the area, providing a safe environment for you to exit the car and make your way to your guests. This may all sound very daunting and intrusive, but everything is done so discreetly that you won’t even know we’re there, other than you feel safe.

During your wedding breakfast we will continue to control the access points and patrol the grounds, keeping a watchful eye over your guests’ cars. As your evening guests start to arrive, we will greet them checking their invite or names and point them in your direction. Most guests will never even know we’re security, unless you choose to have high visibility security, then we will equip your wedding security guards with hi-vis security jackets.

Your wedding gifts from guests can run into the many thousands of pounds worth, during the evening we can guard them, even log them, store them and deliver them to you the next day or on your return from your honeymoon.

At the end of the evening, we can assist in booking taxis for your guests. We will search the venue for lost property and try to return it to its rightful owner on the night, failing that it will be handed in to the venue manager for safe keeping.

If you are staying somewhere other than your reception venue, we can securely transport you there with one of our security chauffeurs, maintaining your safety right until the end of the night.

The Honeymoon

We can provide you with your honeymoon transfer to the airport, this includes a luxury chauffeured car from our ‘Best of British’ fleet, chilled premium champagne, check-in queue jump and VIP lounge. Whist you’re away in the sun enjoying married life, we can even protect your property 24 hours a day with our residential security service and mobile security patrols.

Our clients

Our clients range from the general public, to celebrities and royalty, Each and every one of our customers receives the same outstanding premier security service. We are happy to provide wedding security for:

-          Asian Weddings

-          Celebrity Weddings

-          Civil & Religious ceremonies

-          Royal Weddings

-          Same Sex Weddings

-          Traveller Weddings

Contact Westminster Security today to enquire about our Wedding Security services in London.

Call us on: 0208 123 3323 or 0755 4000 300

Wedding Security FAQ’s

I want wedding security in London but I don’t want the security guards to get in the way or cause a fuss, can you provide this?

-          Our wedding security guards are very discreet, we appreciate that no-one really wants security at their wedding, so we blend in as venue staff or guests unless otherwise asked to provide a high visibility security presence. Contact us for more info.

How much does wedding security in London cost?

-          Every wedding is different, as is the threat and requirements. Some people require bodyguards, guard dogs and cars therefore we custom build a package for our customers working with them and their budget to provide a bespoke service that suits them.

I’m getting married in Europe next year, can you provide your wedding security service abroad?

-          Yes we can, we have plenty of experience in providing complete security and transport management for large high profile weddings in London and throughout Europe. Please contact us for a security consultation.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/wedding-security-guards-in-london/

Residential Security in London is more important now than ever before.

Residential Security in London is more important now than ever before. With police cutbacks and the slow recovery from the recession, thieves are taking advantage. With less chance of them being caught, and less chance of them going to prison with the prisons being full. The risk vs reward has made burglary a more attractive option for organised criminal gangs who are targeting more affluent residential areas in London with the hope of an easy pay day.

Burglary is the fastest growing crime nationwide, with criminals getting evermore sophisticated and violent in order to take your personal possessions for their own financial gain and greed. The festive season being the peak period where homes are targeted. A combination of the long dark nights and homes being fully stocked with Christmas gifts, gives burglars the perfect opportunity to profit.

London is home to the most expensive properties in the UK, and the most expensive residential street. These affluent areas are like magnets to criminals who will travel great distances, even from Europe, to target homes and vehicles. Vehicles are often stolen to order then exported.

Recently published figures shows Belgravia and Knightsbridge in Westminster as home to 5 of the top 10 most expensive streets, the others being close by in Kensington & Chelsea:

Grosvenor Crescent is the most expensive residential street in England and Wales, says latest research from Lloyds Bank.

To acquire a typical Grade II listed house on Grosvenor Crescent will cost an average of £16,918,000.

Five of the ten most expensive streets are in the prime residential areas of Belgravia and Knightsbridge in the City of Westminster.

They include Eaton Square with an average property value of £15,520,000 and Chester Square – £8,282,000 – both are in Belgravia.

Not far behind are Trevor Street, £10,150,000, and Montpelier Street, £8,483,000, in the Knightsbridge area.

The remaining four streets are in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea; they include Cadogan Square, £8,592,000, Elgin Crescent, £7,683,000, Egerton Crescent – the most expensive street for the past two years, £7,100,000, and Hillsleigh Road, £7,091,000.

It’s no surprise then with these facts and figures in mind, that Westminster Security has seen a sharp increase in enquiries and customers for our mobile security patrols and residential security in London.

CCTV and an alarm, just isn’t enough these days. Nothing beats physical presence.

We provide former Police and Ex-Military security guards to protect properties 24hrs a day, 365 days a year. This could be through our static guard service, were a team of residential security guards are permanently stationed at your house; opening the door, screening mail and visitors, answering the phone, monitoring CCTV and conducting hi-visibility patrols.

Or through our mobile security patrol service, were a dedicated team visits your property and grounds at random times throughout the day and night, to conduct security patrols and checks. This service also includes alarm response and key holding. The mobile security patrol unit occasionally utilises guard dogs to assist in search of, and deterring opportunist and organised criminals.

Westminster Security pride ourselves in providing a premier security service to our customers. We have built an exemplary reputation for providing an unparalleled service, both in quality and efficiency. We can provide our residential security in London on a full-time, or part time basis. Ideal if you’re going away on business or holiday, giving you that peace of mind.

Westminster Security offer a free initial no obligation residential security review of your property. To find out more about our residential security in London, please contact us by filling in our enquiry form, or call us on 0208 123 3323, one of our security advisers will gladly assist you.

www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/residential-security-london/

Protective Surveillance - The alternative to Close Protection

Protective Surveillance

Protective surveillance is becoming an evermore popular method of protection preferred by prominent business people, families and visiting dignitaries. It’s a less obtrusive form of close protection, amalgamated with surveillance to provide a discreet personal protection service. Our guest blogger this month is Gavin Mooney of SIKA Security and Investigations in Stirling, Scotland. Gavin is a retired British Soldier with over 25 years experience in communications, protection and surveillance. He explains more about protective surveillance below.

The Advantages of Protective Surveillance

There are certain situations where protective surveillance might be beneficial in order to discreetly protect yourself or your client. Protective surveillance is ideal for anyone who might need covert close protection, there are a few advantages that can be gained though this surveillance technique.

Maintain Daily Routines

One of the drawbacks of hiring a close protection team is the fact that some clients feel as though their daily activities are hindered. It is important to have the team near in case their help is needed, but clients wonder where the line of obtrusive protection lies.

Protective surveillance allows the team to research the potential threat so that they can provide protection, without too much impact on your daily schedule. So, you can continue with your regular daily tasks, without worrying about the close proximity of your team.

What is Protective Surveillance?

This technique allows your protection team to gain on-going intelligence so that they can assess the risk at any moment. This intelligence can be gathered through electronic and physical research, and it allows the team to gather applicable information in order to put together an effective protection plan.

One of the benefits of this surveillance plan is that the team strives to maintain a semblance of normality in your life. The team works hard to observe the situation and control risk from a distance, to avoid tipping off a potentially dangerous person.

Who Can Benefit from Protective Surveillance?

Anyone might find benefit from protective surveillance depending on their situation. These services are especially suited for people who have a high net worth, who have a high profile in the media, or for someone who is being stalked.

Another reason that this surveillance might be used is if you need to be sure that you are not being followed. With physical surveillance, your protective team will watch your movements from a distance, in order to determine if anyone is following you. Once those individuals have been identified, it becomes much easier to “watch the watchers.”

Usually, protective surveillance is offered as part of a larger close protection plan, although there are certain situations where protective surveillance might be sufficient as a stand-alone service.

Digital Protective Surveillance

In our modern world, it is becoming easier to use digital techniques in order to gather information over the phone or through other listening devices. There are tools that can be used through cell phones, home phones, radios, televisions, or many other devices in a home or office.

Many people find that information gathering in this manner is much more effective than physical surveillance, because details can be gathered from a distance and throughout the day.

Talk with an Expert

Do you need protective surveillance? Contact SIKA to learn more about the ways these surveillance strategies can be implemented for your individual situation. When you hire an expert, you have complete peace of mind that everything is being taken care of.

SIKA Security and Investigations Agency (SIKA), offer private investigator services in the Edinburgh and Glasgow areas. These services include surveillance as well as many other aspects that might be needed for a private investigation. SIKA are a trusted partner of Westminster Security, together we are able to cover the whole of the United Kingdom, providing an unparalleled investigation and protection service for our customers.

http://www.westminstersecurity.co.uk/protective-surveillance/