Heartbeat: Keeping the thin blue line

October 16, 2019

The role of a security officer is as varied as any role dealing with the public, and education plays a pivotal part in having the right skill set to ensure colleagues, patients and visitors to the Trust feel safe.

Mark Lee explains: “Working in our security team brings a whole host of challenges on a daily basis, with no two days ever the same, so it is important for us to maintain our professional development and never stop learning.

“My skills are quite varied as I enjoy learning new things. Most recently having undertaken qualifications in mental health and have just completed the Trusts Accredited Managers Program. In recent weeks I have undertaken an information technology course in which I hope to achieve the European computer driving license qualification (ECDL) and Microsoft office expert. Previously, I have achieved level 5 award in leadership and management with the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) – training that was provided by the Trust.

“I love using technology and fixing things, so I enjoy working with the CCTV and electronic security systems.

“But now I’m proud that following a rigorous study programme I have just become a Certified Security Management Professional (CSMP®) having completed the course and received a distinction overall.”

The Certified Security Management Professional (CSMP®) is an advanced-level, internationally-focused certification and accredited diploma in corporate security management, offered by the International Security Institute and underwritten by the University of Leicester.

The course covers a number of security related topics over 12 units including crime prevention, access management and protection of information.

Mark continued: “The course involved a massive time commitment often involving 40/60 hours per month study with an assignment due every month. Each unit is marked and assessed twice, once by international security professionals – all considered experts in their fields – then by internal verifiers who are also professional security professionals.

“But the hard work paid off, and I am very pleased with the result. But it won’t stop there, for as everyone knows, the world of security is always changing with new threats being recognised all the time, and as the Trust’s first line of defence, it is our role to stay on top of developments and help keep everyone who uses our sites safe from harm.”