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T4S Editorial Team

Meet the diverse T4S team—experts, security pros, marketers, and leaders—creating accurate, practical content for the security industry.

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Maryam Alavi

Security Industry Writer

Maryam writes about security training, licensing, industry developments, and career opportunities in the UK.

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Latest Articles

Stay informed with new blogs on licensing updates, training tips, and industry news.

  • UK security guard wearing a white shirt and sleeveless high-visibility vest, standing outside modern buildings. For a slightly more polished version:

    SIA Licence Renewal 2026: A Complete Guide to Refresher Training

    If you work in the UK security industry, your SIA licence is your passport to a rewarding career. But like any passport, it has an expiry date. With the rules around renewals changing, it’s more important than ever to know exactly what you need to do to stay licensed and legal. This guide will walk…

  • The guard is a man with short hair, wearing a dark uniform and a bright neon-yellow high-visibility vest with "SECURITY" printed on the front. He is standing with his hands clasped in front of him. The bar in the background features large glass windows revealing a warm, dimly lit interior with patrons sitting at tables and a well-stocked bar. Above the entrance, a blue and pink neon sign glows with the bar's name. String lights and classic wall lanterns add a soft, amber glow to the outdoor seating area, which includes small round tables and chairs.

    Martyn’s Law Explained: A Complete Guide for UK Security Professionals

    If you work in the UK security industry, you know that staying ahead of the curve is part of the job. From licensing changes to new operational standards, the landscape is always shifting. One of the most significant changes on the horizon is the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, better known as Martyn’s Law.…

  • Security officers standing side by side in uniform against a plain white background, facing forward with professional and confident expressions.

    Door supervisor vs security guard: which role is right for you?

    When you’re starting your career in the UK’s private security industry, one of the first and most important questions you’ll face is whether to train for a Door Supervisor or a Security Guard licence. On the surface, the two roles look similar, both involve protecting people and property, both require an SIA licence, and both…

  • Security guard in a high-visibility vest standing in a crowd, seen from behind.

    How Long Does SIA Training Take? A Complete Guide

    One of the most common questions aspiring security professionals ask is, how long does SIA training take? Understanding the time commitment is crucial for planning your transition into the security industry. The answer depends on the specific course you choose, but the good news is that you can get qualified and ready to apply for…

  • SIA licence with criminal record: UK security guard completing incident log paperwork at a desk.

    Getting an SIA Licence with a Criminal Record: Your 2025 Guide

    Navigating the path to becoming a licensed security professional in the UK can feel complex, especially if you’re concerned about a past mistake. A common question we hear is, “Can I get an SIA licence with a criminal record?”  The short answer is: it depends. While the Security Industry Authority (SIA) has a duty to…