What is close protection?
Close protection is generally regarded as a physical presence to protect an individual as well as deter or discourage harmful or illegal behaviour from the individual themselves or others around them. A vital requirement of license-worthy close protection is that it must be done under some form of contract with a client or consumer.
Who needs a close protection license?
For those physically and directly involved in close protection, a front-line licence is required. This is a small identity card that must be worn and prominently displayed, subject to licence conditions.
For supervisors, employers or managers, a non front-line licence is required. Rather than a card, this will be delivered in letter format, also detailing the responsibilities and tasks of a non front-line licence holder; participation in front-line activities is not permitted by those holding a non front-line licence.
Individuals holding non front-line licenses are permitted to carry out non front-line activities in areas other than their primary focus. For example, the director of a close protection firm would not need to apply for an additional license were they to provide key holding services, since the supplying of employees for a particular service is also a non front-line activity, and within the general realms of security work.
Licenses cost £245 for three years. This is not refundable. For employers purchasing licenses for employees, there should be no tax or National Insurance liability. For employees purchasing for themselves, you can claim tax relief against your taxable income, (eg, the basic rate of tax will merit you £49). For more details, visit the HMRC website.
Required qualifications for a close protection license:
Anyone seeking to apply for a close protection license must have a Level 3 certificate in close protection, acceptable from one of the following awarding bodies:
- Buckinghamshire New University (0800 0565660)
- City and Guilds (020 7294 2800)
- Edexcel (0844 576 0026)
In a first-time application, you must have obtained your qualification no more than three years prior to application. If you are simply looking to renew your licence, a qualification older than three years is very much acceptable, granted that your last licence ran out no more than three years ago. In this instance, it is advisable to renew your qualification before submitting another application.