Since lockdown, which started almost 2 months ago, most industries have been hit in ways we couldn’t imagine. With the security sector, it is fair to say it’s been somewhat bittersweet. After the article released last week on Securitas and the uncertainty the contractor faces within the next few months, the team at QCS thought to shine some light on whether Covid-19 has been beneficial or hindered the security sector.
More demand for security guards
Many people who are continuing to work during lockdown are mainly working in environments where a service is still required for the general public. This includes hospitals, clinics, supermarkets and wholesalers. Security roles have been crucial in terms of maintaining service and operations take place within these areas. From theft and harassment prevention to maintaining order amongst members of the public, security roles have been in demand and highly valued during this pandemic particularly within departments which have faced a shortage of employees due to isolation. The increasing number of individuals working within security roles during lockdown has meant they have been acknowledged and categorised as key workers.
Event cancellations
With major sporting and music events all being postponed to 2021, this year has caused uncertainty for those working in event security. In 2018, the events sector in the UK was worth £42.3 billion (SIA, 2018). We can only imagine that has gone up particularly due to new, large-profile sporting events such as the NFL and Cricket World Cup in addition to music events. Cancellations have meant the events industry is currently suffering with huge financial losses. People working in event security have been given opportunities to join unemployment schemes to help them financially. Although this might be a solution for now, is this something we can sustain in the months to come?
What’s next?
With state leaders implementing new measures to maintain social distancing, we are set to see the easing of this within the next few months. Children being encouraged to return to schools from June and hospitality and service outlets being permitted to resume business as early as July will mean that soon enough, small social gatherings will be permitted. Smaller events which can take place this year will concentrate more on safety and security resources, particularly with the prevention of virus spreading. On the other hand, mass gatherings may see a drop in the number of individuals attending as many will take precautions to avoid large groups. This could also mean that less security staff and resources will be needed if gatherings have a small number of attendees. It is almost a double-edged sword where security will be required in most outlets, but the decline in people within public spaces and budget cuts might cause setbacks for security contractors. Could lockdown see a gap in the job market for security roles? Or will there be more of a demand?
This article was mainly just some thoughts to consider post-lockdown. But if this topic is something you would be interested in hearing more about, LSE has an online event based on Covid-19 and the impact on Euro-Atlantic Strategy. This takes place on Thursday 21st May at 4pm (BST). More information can be found here.
