Weekly FAQs: Get answers to your questions

Are you seeking clarity in the complex world of security? Look no further! We’re here weekly FAQs to address your security questions and provide expert insights.

Are you confused about the security industry? Do you need someone to answer your security-related questions? Worry not! We are here to help you every week to resolve your security questions. Therefore, comment on our socials and find answers to top security questions on our weekly FAQ blog series. 

APLH vs. PEAT – What’s the Difference?

Q1: Are the APLH and PEAT the same course? If not do you need both to run a pub?

Answer: No, PEAT (Prevention and Education Training) and APLH (Award for Personal Licence Holders) are not the same courses. Certainly, they are two different courses related to the alcohol licensing and hospitality industry.

However, people applying for a personal licence to sell alcohol in the UK must have the APLH qualification. Anyone selling alcoholic beverages in licenced facilities must comply with this regulatory requirement.

Furthermore, PEAT, on the other hand, is a programme created to educate and teach participants about the appropriate selling and use of alcoholic beverages.

Waiting for Your SIA Card?

Q2: Dear bro I applied for an SIA Card on 22 August 2023, and the decision was made on my application on 5 Sept 2023 now 1 month and 4 days are complete But I have not received the SIA Card yet so please tell me what to do.

Answer: In any case, you can check the status of your application in your SIA dashboard. If nothing is showing, you can get an update on your application by calling the SIA directly at 0300 123 9298 or filling in a form here: https://www.services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/Pages/contact-form.aspx

International Security Experience

Q3: I worked as a security guard in Dubai. Can I use the licence to apply for a job?

Answer: Unfortunately, your security guard licence from Dubai will not directly transfer to the UK. You will need to complete the SIA training course and apply for your SIA licence to work legally in the private security industry in the UK. 

Unlocking Discounts for CCTV Training

Q4: If you have a SIA licence and want to do CCTV how do you apply your 50 per cent off?

Answer: To apply the 50% discount for CCTV training with a valid SIA licence, you can follow these steps:

• Visit the Get Licensed website or download the GuardPass app.
• Select the CCTV training course you are interested in.
• During the booking process, enter your SIA licence number in the designated field.
• The system will automatically apply the 50% discount to your course fee.

Furthermore, please note that this discount is applicable only if you already hold a valid SIA licence and wish to add CCTV qualification to it. Suppose you do not have an existing SIA licence. In that case, you must complete the appropriate training and obtain a Door Supervision or Security Guarding licence before applying for CCTV training.

Reapplying After Licence Suspension

Q5: My licence got suspended 2 years ago, can I reapply or do I need to the course again?

Answer: If your SIA licence was suspended 2 years ago, you may be able to reapply for a new licence depending on the circumstances. Here are some points to consider:

• Check the reason for suspension: Understand why your licence was suspended in the first place. However, if it was due to a severe breach of conduct or criminal activity, it may affect your chances of getting a new licence.
• Time period: Evidently, after a suspension, there is usually a specified time period before you can reapply for a new licence. This could range from 6 months to several years depending on the severity of the offence.
• Reapplication process: To reapply for an SIA licence, you must complete and submit an application form and any required supporting documents.
• Training requirements: Depending on how long ago your original training took place and any changes in regulations since then, you may need to undertake additional training or refresher courses before reapplying.

It’s always best to contact the SIA directly or visit their website for specific guidance tailored to your situation.

Overcoming Medical Challenges

Q6: Good morning, if someone lost their SIA licence due to a medical condition, such as PTSD. Is there a way that they can gain their licence back and if so how would they go about it? Thanks!

Answer: Good morning! If someone has lost their SIA licence due to a medical condition such as PTSD, they may still be able to regain their licence. Here are the steps they can take:

• Seek appropriate medical treatment and support for their condition.
• Once they have received treatment and feel ready. Thereby, they should consult with their doctor or mental health professional to determine if they are fit to hold an SIA licence.
• If deemed fit, they can contact the SIA directly and explain their situation.
• The SIA will guide on what documents or evidence may be required to support their application. For reinstatement of the licence.
• They will then need to complete the necessary forms and submit them along with any supporting documentation.
• The SIA will review the application and decide based on individual circumstances.

P.S: Please note that each case is unique. So individuals in this situation need to follow these steps while seeking advice from both healthcare professionals and the SIA itself.

Addressing Criminal Records

Q7: If an officer is caught under the drink in alcohol while driving and has a 12-month ban does this go against the SIA licence

Answer: SIA has a Criminal Record Indicator tool that will help you check if you are likely to be accepted or not.

You can also find out more information in our helpful article.

International Background Checks

Q8: Hello, I am a Nigerian interested in door supervisor training. I arrived uk last year in October. I have all the required documents for the training and licence. Except that I am unsure if the UK DBS suffice for me or if I need to get a police report from my country. The police report I used to travel to the UK has since expiredI have not spent 6 months in the UK. 

Answer: We can provide you with some guidance regarding your situation. Here are a few essential points:

• The UK DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) is the standard background check required for most security roles in the UK.
• Firstly, if you have been living in the UK for less than 6 months, it is unlikely that you can obtain a valid UK DBS check as it requires at least 6 months of residency.
• Secondly, in such cases, you may need to provide a police certificate from your home country (Nigeria) as an alternative form of background checking.
• Thirdly, contact your local Nigerian embassy or consulate in the UK to inquire about obtaining a police certificate specifically for visa or immigration purposes.
• Lastly, it’s essential to ensure that any documents provided are certified and recognised by the relevant authorities in Nigeria and the UK.

You will probably need 5 years of criminal record from your home country. 

Holding Multiple Licences

Q9: Hi, I Have a question which I have been trying to get the answer to for a few weeks now with no luck. Can I hold a personal licence (APLH) and a Door supervisor licence?

Answer: Yes, both licences are distinct; nevertheless, you can obtain both licences at the same time after completing the necessary training.

Reapplying After Withdrawal

Q10: If my SIA application was withdrawn because I was unable to meet the date to go to the post office for capturing, can I be able to reapply again?

Answer:  Yes, you can reapply for your SIA licence if your application was withdrawn due to not meeting the date. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Contact the SIA and explain why you could not meet the original deadline.

2. Request information on how to proceed with a new application.

3. Follow their instructions and provide all necessary documentation and payment.

4. Schedule an appointment at the post office for biometric data capture as soon as possible.

However, it’s vital to meet all deadlines and requirements when applying for an SIA licence to avoid delays or withdrawal of your application.

Renewing an Expired SIA Licence

Q11: Can I renew my SIA licence online even if my. The card ran out about 4 years ago My card expired in 2020 is there any way I can renew my door Supervisor card

Answer: No, you cannot renew your SIA licence online if it has expired for more than 3 years. To renew your Door Supervisor card after it has expired for such an extended period, you must follow these steps:

1. Complete the necessary training: Firstly, you must retake and successfully complete the relevant Door Supervisor training course.

2. Pass the exams: Successfully pass the exams associated with the training course.

3. Submit a new application: Apply for a new SIA licence through the SIA website or by post, following their instructions and providing all required documentation.

4. Pay applicable fees: Ensure you pay any renewal fees associated with your new application.

Remember, it is essential to keep track of your licence expiry dates and apply for renewal on time to avoid having to go through this process again in the future.

Conclusion

In the security world, questions and uncertainties are common, but so are the solutions. Our weekly FAQs serve as your beacon of knowledge, helping you understand the complexities of the security industry with ease. Whether you’re curious about courses, licences, or the nuances of a career in security, we’ve got you covered.

As you continue on your journey to becoming a knowledgeable and skilled security professional, remember that no question is too small or too complex. Keep those inquiries coming, and we’ll keep delivering the answers. Your security matters to us, and we’re here to ensure you’re well-informed and prepared for success.

Stay aware, stay informed, and stay updated with Get Licensed. Your journey to security excellence starts here!

P.S. Feel free to share your security questions with us, and we’ll be back with more enlightening answers in our next weekly FAQ series. You can also seek help from our cool tool to find answers.