.After much deliberation, we decided to move to our new space to provide the business with room to grow As you all know, we are rapidly expanding and experimenting with different working models across our various teams We believe that this new office will allow us to maintain our strong workplace, whilst also being more conducive to the hybrid work schedules that many of us have adopted in recent times
The new office at Woodingdean comes with lots of open-plan workspace, blazing fast Wi-Fi, excellent new amenities, a working heating system that our previous offices did not have and plenty of car parking spaces for staff and visitors. In terms of location, this new office is located close to the key roads and motorways in the South East and to London and the North This new location also means better access for our clients, something which we believe will improve business and boost our brand heading into the future.
The move obviously went well, and all staff are now settled in. The transition from Arundel involved a lot of planning and sorting out of 12 years of working progress A special thanks goes to Stephen Layton, Kevin Souter, Mark Edwards and Liam Mulkeirins for their hard work in helping the move of our offices………… Yes the boss did much of the heavy lifting and shifting too It was also quite a poignant moment to leave our first AP home for Manned Guarding, but we are enjoying the new working environment and look forward to many years of enjoying the scenery overlooking the beautiful downs.
We’re really looking forward to settling into this new space and can’t wait for you all to see it!
Diane Mulkeirins HR & Training Director
If milk gets bad, it becomes yoghurt Yoghurt is more valuable than milk If it gets worse, it turns to cheese. Cheese is more valuable than both yoghurt and milk. If grape juice turns sour it transforms into wine which is even more expensive than grape juice You are not bad because you make mistakes Mistakes are the experiences that make you valuable as a person Alexander Fleming's mistake led him to invent penicillin Don't let your mistakes get you down. It's not practise that makes perfect. It is the mistakes we learn from, that makes perfect.
I was asked the other day what the benefit is of lifelong learning after a member of staff had overheard a conversation I had with an interviewee when saying goodbye. One of my answers was ‘renewed motivation’ I explained that sometimes jobs may become routine, and people find that mindlessly completing boring tasks day after day can become ‘old hat’ and that developing new skills could well be the secret to rediscovering what drew you to working in the industry in the first place.
I find myself thinking about the benefits of lifelong learning when reflecting on the conversation I had with this member of staff I think an important aspect of lifelong learning is job security. Industries continue to evolve, and many employees feel the pressure to stay ahead of the game in their role. Competition for jobs is tough and there's always new faces entering the workforce with fresh and new skills I believe that lifelong learning enables you to hone your skill set so that you can be an asset to your company and the industry that you are in.
When I started out in the security industry, I was told by my mentor that your commitment to developing your professional abilities will go a long way to earning the trust and respect of any employer.
Career options is another aspect of why lifelong learning is a benefit Perhaps it isn't always about keeping your job, it could also open the door to new roles perhaps a new career. Online courses are great way to get qualified in your preferred field and can obviously assist you without possibly going back to school or higher education to do the learning When talking about adult education I find you learn more than just the subject you are interested in Adult education is useful for developing stronger soft skills, such as adaptability, time management, problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, selfdiscipline, and goal setting, to mention a few. I firmly believe by strengthening these character traits anyone who undertakes continuing education will reach their personal and professional goals
By mastering new skills and unlocking your potential, you will enable yourself to boost your own self esteem. Self-improvement is key to building confidence and as you use those skills to advance your career your sense of purpose will only grow To undertake studies, Lifelong learning helps to improve the health and function of the brain The mental benefits of learning can include improved reasoning skills, a stronger memory, better cognitive function, longer attention span and a reduced risk of dementia
For me personally networking opportunities is high on the list of benefits of lifelong learning I find that working closely with instructors and fellow learners allows me to connect with likeminded professionals and grow my own personal network. This not only benefits the company and my own team at work but may create valuable opportunities for my own career and perhaps unexpected directions for our own company
Remember that lifelong learning does not only mean pursuing education beyond the requirements of formal schooling all corporate training People who are lifelong learners never stop honing their skills and expanding their knowledge, whether it is learning a new hobby, studying a subject, joining a club, playing a sport, taking a vocational course or even learning a language.
Nine years ago, I took up sewing and learned how to make a 2dimensional design into a 3-dimensional garment. I've worked with all types of specialist fabrics and have made the ultimate dress for any woman - a wedding dress! Last year I took the decision to join the ACF (Army Cadet Force) it is not just a hobby it is a commitment that I've undertaken to enable others to be the best they can be, including myself…………. And yes I have made mistakes along the way but I have learnt from those mistakes. Whether it is practice that makes perfect or that we learn from our mistakes, lifelong learning is a fantastic way of finding out new and rewarding opportunities, making friends and most importantly bringing personal satisfaction
Diane Mulkeirins HR & Training Director
The article below from the insurer AVIVA makes for very interesting reading
Diane Mulkeirins says... “We all use smart phones, tablets and many other items powered by lithium-ion batteries We would urge all staff to read this article from AVIVA and if you have concerns to contact your insurers”
INSURER AVIVA is urging consumers to be “on their guard” after witnessing a 7% increase in customer claims across the past year in relation to fires started by lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in rechargeable devices including smart phones, tablets, power tools, ebikes and e-scooters.
The data, which encompasses fire claims across 2022 and 2023, includes a significant house fire started by an ecigarette being charged with an incompatible charger, extensive fire damage to a house after an e-bike with a second-hand battery was left charging unattended in a bedroom, a smart phone which exploded during charging after becoming wet, an annexe which was destroyed by fire after batteries were left charging unattended and a fire in a garage after a faulty charger was used to charge a remote control car
This trend in claims is highlighted in additional research commissioned by the insurer, which reveals that one-in-nine Brits have suffered a fire (11%) or explosion (11%) in their home due to a lithium-ion battery or device. Almost onein-ten (9%) have experienced the scorching of a surface where a lithium-ion battery or device was charging, while twoin-ten (20%) have experience a battery or device overheating at some point.
Ian, 57, a customer assistant from the Isle of Wight, was at home when his Bluetooth earbuds exploded He said: “I was charging my headphones next to me on the sofa and, without realising, accidentally plugged them in using an incorrect charger. The light didn’t illuminate properly, but I still thought they were charging.”
He continued: “After about five minutes, the headphones started smoking and, within seconds, both the headphones and the battery case exploded The metal and plastic from the headphones then melted to the sofa and set it ablaze.”
In conclusion, he observed: “Luckily, I was able to put the flames out, but I had
a shock and have been left with a burn hole in my sofa I dread to think what would have happened if I had been asleep or wasn’t present in the property There’s no doubt that the sofa and house would have gone up in flames.”
Worryingly, despite most Brits (79%) –that’s circa 43 2 million people – owning a device that contains a lithium-ion battery, and more than one-third of the UK population (around 18 5 million) receiving a device containing such a battery as a Christmas gift, awareness around the risks posed is low
The research shows that more than twoin-five adults (41%) don’t know what a lithium-ion battery is, while more than two-fifths (42%) are unaware of the fire risks associated with charging them
Likewise, more than seven-in-ten adults (71%) don’t know the warning signs of a lithium-ion battery that’s about to fail, among them overheating, poor performance and bulging or leaking batteries
There’s also a lack of awareness of the devices which contain lithium-ion batteries, with just over one-third of adults (37%) correctly identifying mobile phones as having them, alongside laptops (33%), tablets (22%) and vapes (22%). Awareness is also low for items like power tools (23%) and smart home devices such as doorbells (20%) and electric toothbrushes (17%)
Hannah Davidson, senior underwriting manager at Aviva, informed Fire Safety Matters: “For the majority of people, devices powered by lithium-ion batteries such as mobile phones, laptops, power tools and e-bikes are safe to use
However, these batteries can present a significant fire risk if the battery fails, is faulty or is otherwise charged incorrectly ”
Davidson continued: “Likewise, with consumers buying lithium-ion batteries and lithium-powered devices from secondhand retailers or sellers, there’s an increased potential for the batteries to be damaged or faulty on purchase, for the battery in the device to be different to the original or for the charger supplied with the device to be the incorrect one ”
Worryingly, Davidson noted: “Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries can devastate a property and are more difficult to extinguish. With this in mind, we urge customers to be aware of the fire risk from lithium-ion batteries and protect themselves and their properties from potentially devastating outcomes ”
According to Davidson: “Taking simple steps, such as always using a manufacturer-recommended battery, practising safe charging techniques and knowing how to spot the early warning signs of a potential battery fire can make a very real difference Having the right insurance in place is also critical to protecting homes and belongings if the worst should happen ”
Aviva claims data highlights a worrying trend of unsafe practices leading to fires, with numerous blazes starting due to customers using the wrong charger for the battery or device, overcharging their devices or leaving batteries and devices unattended while they’re charging This trend is backed up by the research, which found that under one-third (32%) of adults always use the charger supplied with their handheld devices/tablets, or recommended by the manufacturer, when charging their mobile phone. Less than three-in-ten adults (27%) unplug their device once it’s fully charged and almost one-in-ten (9%) leave their mobile phone charging while they’re not present in their property
The research also reveals that more than one-in-ten individuals (13%) – that’s over seven million Brits – don’t have a smoke alarm or any other fire safety devices fitted in their homes
Proper care of lithium-ion batteries and devices can help to extend the life of the battery and reduce the risk of battery fires
Use the original battery for the device or a manufacturer-recommended battery if a replacement is needed. Using noncompatible batteries can cause the battery to fail and turn into a fire risk
Monitor the condition of the battery or device
. Check for damage including bulging, dents or any signs of overheating If you notice any damage, stop using the device immediately and replace the battery
Learn the signs that a lithium-ion battery is about to fail These include excessive heat, unusual smells, bulging batteries, leaking, unusual noises such as cracking or hissing and poor performance of a device
Store batteries and devices safely. When not in use, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and flammable materials
Ensure you have smoke alarms installed at your property. Early warning systems such as smoke alarms and heat alarms can alert you to fires before they become a serious threat to life.
Always use manufacturer-approved chargers specifically designed for the device. Cheap or counterfeit chargers can be deadly as they may lack safety features and cause overcharging and overheating Avoid overcharging the battery. Disconnect your device when it’s fully charged and unplug the charger. Leaving items on charge continuously, such as overnight while sleeping, can be a significant fire hazard
Monitor batteries and devices while charging and don’t leave them unattended
There are numerous cases of fires starting while people are charging items in different rooms, when they’re asleep or when they’ve left the house.
. Catching an overheating battery early on in that process can help reduce the risk of a serious fire or serious injury.
Charge batteries and devices in a safe location. Charge on a flat, non-flammable surface Avoid charging batteries or devices on soft surfaces such as beds or close to flammable materials and hazardous substances If a lithium-ion battery overheats, it can ignite flammable materials and cause a fire.
Never charge batteries or devices in hallways, doors or blocking escape routes. If there’s a fire, you will need to be able to escape safely
Inspect cables and connectors for any signs of damage and wear Replace any frayed or damaged components to prevent short-circuiting.
Do not charge lithium-ion batteries in high temperatures or in direct sunlight. High temperatures can cause the battery to overheat and is a fire risk
Charge and store batteries in a fireresistant box The latter will offer some protection if the battery or device overheats and catches fire, containing the explosion and helping towards the prevention of serious fire damage.
*For further information visit www.aviva.co.uk
Diane Mulkeirins
HR & Training Director
A R E T O D R E A M
Along with Elizabeth, James, Kevin & Mark we joined Jack and his team from Dare to Dream on four occasions earlier this year, where on three occasions we mentored 3 pupils each through a set programme
Our task was to inspire, build self-confidence/belief and encourage these young people to be the best versions of themselves they can be and encourage them to take part, knowing they were safe to speak aloud in front of their piers
The pupils also visited our offices and had an amazing day building bridges from vegetables and having a picnic lunch with the staff from APS.
I had the privilege of mentoring 3 pupils, all girls and all very different from each other, but all gained lots from our session One pupil was so driven, she looked for a volunteering role at her local Food Bank as she wanted to “give something back” as they had helped her and er family when they arrived un the UK. I’m delighted to say she got the job and is a valued member of the team!
Personally I have gained so much respect for school teachers, the energy and positivity to motivate and inspire a class-full of young people is phenomenal!
SarahNix
Media Assistant
O R O T H
Elizabeth Briggs HR/Office Administrator
I was fortunate enough to be asked to be an AP Mentor for the Dare to Dream 2024 scheme.
Working with students from the Dorothy Stringer School in Brighton the scheme was delivered by the Love Local Jobs Foundation
IWhat was really uplifting was the cheerful eager-beaver participation of all the students – they really seemed to enjoy the process (there was a lot of congeniality and humour!) Everyone really opened up about their dreams for the futurerecognising and admiring their own unique abilities and strengths
It was a really nice group event, and I had the good luck to mentor three very charming, unique young people with clear goals ahead of them
James Hadley Training Manager
As with last year it was a pleasure to take part in the Dare 2 Dream protect and give back to one of the local schools and their students.
This year I meet a great group of students and was able to mentor them over the weeks
My highlight was getting to know them and helping them to begin to realise their potential and think about their futures
I had an amazing situation with one student who was potentially heading down the wrong path, but after being able to talk to them and listen to them, they were able to get themselves back on track and now are looking forward to building a career
O O L , B R I G H T O N
It seems that employers need to improve the way they recruit, train and retain workers over 50 to fully harness their skills and experience. It is always interesting to read articles form professional bodies and may of us can identify with the current status quo concerning our employment prospects I was very intrigued to read the article by the CIPD concerning the issues that some people of a certain age group have when looking for employment.
Workers aged 50 plus represent a rising proportion of the UK workforce From the point of view of the senior management team and the HR Dept in our Manned Guarding division we find that the more experienced and maturer applicants are certainly up for a challenge in learning new skills The CIPDs analysis from 2020-21 showed that workers aged 50 plus accounted for 32 6% of the workforce, up from 21% in the early 1990s However, we are now finding that employment rates still decline rapidly after workers enter their fifties for a range of reasons, this includes early retirement, ill health or a move to self-employment
Many applicants who are over the age of 50 often tell the same story that because the are over 50 they are generally finding it harder than other age groups to find new employment, often because of discrimination or bias on the part of employers and recruiters Sometimes a lack of flexible working can also make it harder to remain in employment, particularly if workers have caring responsibilities, a disability or a long-term health condition It would seem that the general consensus as stated by the CIPD is that unless more employers improve how they recruit, train and retain older workers, they are likely to face increasing skill and labour shortages
The CIPD is totally committed to the removal of age discrimination in organisations. It has been found that age-diverse teams can benefit both individuals and their organisations. Genuine inclusion with equality of opportunity boosts workforce diversity, helps address skill and labour shortages, and benefits an organisation’s reputation and brand. Furthermore, we have an ageing population, the proportion of workers over 50 is expected to increase in the future It would seem that it is crucial that employers establish people management policies and practices needed to recruit, train and retain an age diverse workforce, and harness the skills and experience they have effectively Research by CIPD in partnership with Reed (2022) found that just 18% of organisations focused on age diversity and inclusion during the previous five years. These are statistics that need to improve.
At AP we recognise that a diverse work force benefits our organisation, the skill set that we encounter through our recruitment program is of a high standard. No matter what your age is we always look for the skills that a person has If you are looking for a challenge and want to learn about the security industry and take on a new role call our training department on 01923 606493 or our 24 Control Room 0845 070 2407 and ask for ext 203.
Vehicle trackers offer a range of security benefits, from improved fleet management and driver safety to theft prevention and recovery. This makes them invaluable tools for businesses and individuals
Security companies track their vehicles for several reasons:
Enhanced Fleet Management: Many businesses use vehicle trackers to monitor their fleet's movements, this allows security companies to monitor the location and status of their vehicles in real-time This helps them ensuring they stay on designated routes, adhere to schedules and optimises dispatching vehicles efficiently and ensuring that resources are utilised effectively
Improve Response Times: By knowing the exact location of their vehicles, security companies can respond more quickly to emergencies or service requests This is crucial in situations where a rapid response can prevent or minimise potential security threats.
Enhanced Security for Clients: Clients hire security companies to protect their assets, properties, or individuals. Vehicle tracking provides clients with reassurance that the security provider is actively monitoring and patrolling the designated areas
Accountability and Transparency: Vehicle tracking systems record data such as vehicle speed, routes taken, and time spent at specific locations This information can be used to ensure that security personnel are adhering to company policies and procedures, as well as providing transparency to clients about the services provided
Client Reporting and Documentation: Vehicle tracking data can be used to generate reports for clients, documenting patrols, response times, and other relevant information This enhances accountability and provides clients with detailed insights into the services provided
Maintenance and Compliance: Tracking systems can also monitor vehicle health, including engine diagnostics and maintenance schedules This ensures that vehicles are properly maintained, reducing the risk of breakdowns and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Asset Tracking: Apart from just vehicles, trackers can be used to monitor high-value assets during transit This is particularly useful for businesses dealing with expensive equipment or goods
Geofencing: Vehicle trackers can define virtual boundaries, known as geofences, around specific areas If a vehicle enters or leaves these predefined zones, alerts are triggered, helping in monitoring unauthorised use or movements.
Driver Behaviour Monitoring: Some trackers are equipped with sensors to monitor driver behaviour, such as speeding, harsh braking, or acceleration This data can be used to improve driver safety and reduce accidents
Security vehicles themselves can be targets for theft or vandalism Vehicle tracking systems help in deterring theft by acting as a visible deterrent and in quickly recovering stolen vehicles by providing their real-time location to law enforcement. Vehicle trackers can now be integrated with broader security systems, such as in vehicle CCTV cameras, providing a comprehensive security solution.
Overall, Vehicle Tracking is a critical tool for Security companies to optimize operations, improve client satisfaction, ensure accountability, and enhance the security of both their assets and those of their clients
Mark Edwards SeniorOperationsManager
Leadership and management are two crucial elements that drive organisations towards success.
While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct concepts with diverse roles and approaches. Understanding the difference between leadership and management is essential for individuals aspiring to make an impact within an organisation. In this essay, we will delve into the contrasting characteristics, responsibilities, and perspectives of leadership and management, shedding light on their unique contributions to organisational effectiveness.
Definition and Focus: Management primarily revolves around the efficient utilisation of resources, establishing and achieving goals, and ensuring day-to-day operations run smoothly It emphasises planning, organising, and controlling processes to maximise productivity.
Managers excel at problem-solving, decision-making, and maintaining stability within an organisation. Their focus is on maintaining structure and order, often working within established frameworks and guidelines.
On the other hand, leadership is more visionary and strategic in nature. It involves inspiring and guiding individuals towards a common goal, fostering innovation, and driving organisational change Leaders focus on aligning people, nurturing relationships, and creating a shared vision. They provide motivation, encouragement, and inspiration, fostering an environment that encourages creativity, adaptability, and growth
Approach and Orientation: Management tends to adopt a task-oriented approach, concentrating on processes, systems, and outcomes Managers excel in defining roles, setting targets, and allocating resources. They ensure that individuals meet performance expectations, monitor progress, and address any issues that may arise. The managerial approach is instrumental in maintaining stability and efficiency.
In contrast, leadership adopts a people-oriented approach, prioritising individuals' needs, aspirations, and personal growth. Leaders establish trust, build relationships, and empower employees to achieve their full potential. They promote a culture of collaboration, communication, and learning. Leadership fosters an environment conducive to creativity, innovation, and continuous improvement
Influence and Authority: Management relies on formal authority and position within the organisational hierarchy. Managers derive their power from their title and job description, enabling them to assign tasks, make decisions, and enforce policies. Their authority is derived from their position, and they have the responsibility to ensure compliance with established rules and procedures
Leadership, on the other hand, is not solely dependent on formal authority Leaders earn influence and respect through their personal qualities, expertise, and ability to inspire others. They possess charisma, vision, and the capability to rally individuals around a common purpose. Leadership is based on trust, credibility, and the ability to inspire and motivate others voluntarily
Time Horizon and Focus: Management typically operates within a short-term time horizon, focusing on immediate objectives, targets, and operational efficiency. Managers prioritize meeting deadlines, staying within budgets, and achieving predetermined outcomes Their primary concern lies in executing tasks efficiently, adhering to plans and schedules, and ensuring smooth operations on a daily basis. Leadership takes a long-term perspective, focusing on the bigger picture and future possibilities. Leaders anticipate trends, adapt to changes, and create a vision that guides the organisation towards success. They encourage innovation, strategic thinking, and the exploration of new opportunities. Leaders inspire individuals to transcend their current capabilities and work towards long-term goals
In conclusion, leadership and management represent distinct concepts with different orientations, approaches, and priorities While management ensures the efficient s of resources and day-to-day operations, leadership inspires and guides individuals towards a shared vision and fosters an environment of growth and innovation. Both leadership and management are essential for organisational success, and effective organisations recognise the value of combining these two skill sets. By understanding the differences between leadership and management, individuals can develop the competencies necessary to excel in their respective roles and contribute meaningfully to their organisations.
James Hadley Training Manager
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A I N I N G
B E C O M I N G G R E E
Everyone can play a part in helping our planet as an individual One simple yet effective way to reduce our carbon footprint and live a greener lifestyle is by adopting sustainable transportation practices, particularly by using bicycles for daily commuting and short trips This approach not only helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also promotes personal health and well-being.
One of the most significant benefits of using bicycles for transportation is the reduction of carbon emissions. Unlike vehicles powered by fossil fuels, bicycles do not emit harmful gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. By choosing to bike instead of driving a car for short trips or daily commuting, we can lower our carbon footprint and contribute to mitigating climate change
Bicycles are incredibly energy-efficient vehicles They require human power to operate, no fuel consumption and no reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The energy required to manufacture and maintain bicycles is also significantly lower compared to that of motorized vehicles, further reducing environmental impact over their lifecycle.
Not only are there environmental advantages, but biking also offers numerous health benefits. Regular cycling helps improve health, strengthen muscles, enhance flexibility, and promote mental well-being Not only do we benefit from improved health cycling can be a social past time, family trips out locally, joining clubs and meeting new friends. By incorporating cycling into daily routines, individuals can lead more active lifestyles
Another plus by using bicycles for transportation can be the significant cost savings over time Compared to owning and maintaining a car, which involves expenses such as fuel, insurance, maintenance, and parking fees, cycling is a low-cost alternative Bicycles require minimal maintenance, and the initial investment in a bike is typically much lower than that of a vehicle.
Short trips or commuting in urban areas on a bike, individuals can contribute to reducing traffic congestion This not only saves time spent in traffic but also decreases overall fuel consumption and emissions associated with idling vehicles in congested conditions.
Biking as a mode of transportation can help sustainable urban planning and development. Cities and communities are able invest in cycling infrastructure such as bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, secure bike parking facilities, and designated cycling routes. These initiatives not only make cycling safer and more accessible but also contribute to creating liveable, environmentally friendly cities, towns and villages
In conclusion, adopting biking as a mode of transportation offers a simple yet powerful way to reduce our carbon footprint, promote sustainability, improve personal health, and contribute to creating more liveable communities Encouraging individuals to incorporate cycling into their daily routines, supporting cycling infrastructure development, and societal benefits in the long run. By taking small steps towards greener living, we can collectively make a positive impact on the planet and future generations.
A S A N I N D I V I D U A L
