How to Verify Close Protection Operatives Before Hiring Them

Begin with the assignment, not the CV

Set out the operating environment, duties, locations, travel, team structure and required discretion. Separate essential capabilities from preferences. A residential assignment and a travelling protection task can demand different evidence even when both involve experienced people.

Use a short written specification so the appointing person and supplier assess candidates against the same requirements. Avoid distributing sensitive client movements or personal details before there is a clear need and appropriate access arrangement.

Check licensing and training through the right sources

For UK work requiring a close protection licence, check the correct current licence through the official SIA register. Do not rely solely on a photograph or a supplier’s statement. A UK licence does not establish permission to work in another jurisdiction.

Understand what the qualification proves

SIA licence-linked training requirements include close protection qualifications, first aid prerequisites and refresher requirements for relevant renewals. Check the current SIA guidance for the individual’s circumstances. Ask for the qualification’s awarding organisation and an appropriate route to verify it.

A qualification demonstrates a defined achievement. It does not, by itself, demonstrate recent experience in every specialist environment. Ask how the person has applied their training in work comparable to the assignment.

Build a proportionate evidence review

• Match the individual to the professional record and licence details.
• Verify material qualifications with an appropriate issuing or awarding source.
• Review relevant assignments, dates, responsibilities and references.
• Discuss a realistic scenario to understand judgement and communication.
• Agree reporting, confidentiality, supervision and replacement arrangements.
• Record any limitation and the decision made about it.

Handle personal information carefully

The ICO’s draft recruitment guidance, currently under review, distinguishes checking supplied information from more intrusive vetting. It advises targeted, proportionate checks and transparency about what is collected and why. Establish a lawful process rather than asking for every document a person holds.

As a practical safeguard, request the evidence needed for the role and control access to it. A client’s wish for reassurance is not a reason to circulate sensitive background records widely.

How Licence Ready supports the decision

An Operative Passport brings together relevant professional evidence and its verification status. Combined with the buyer’s requirements, it helps expose gaps and supports a documented selection decision. It complements professional judgement and appropriate due diligence; it does not guarantee an individual’s future conduct.