The Sentry - Around the world in AP days!

AroundtheWorldinAPDays

By Diane Mulkeirins

with the ‘James keeper of the distances Handley’.

We are committed to raising £5000 this year to enable the team at Children with Cancer Fund to carry on their vital work...

Having survived the huge disruption of the pandemic, society as a whole is now experiencing multiple aftershocks from the health service to the household budget. The charity sector is at the sharp end especially some of our small local charities where we are based in West Sussex. This year for our chosen charity we have adopted the Childrens Cancer Fund Polegate in East Sussex. We are committed to raising £5000 this year to enable the team at Children with Cancer Fund to carry on their vital work with the families of children with cancer. The charity aims to grant wishes to children up to the age of 18 who have and or have had cancer and their families in the East Sussex and Brighton/Hove areas. The wishes can be medical or fun and are made to individual families as well as supporting a group together.

Quality family time is priceless and by raising funds for this very special charity we look to contribute our own efforts so that support for local hospitals and community nurses the wishes can continue to be gifted. Without your help we cannot do this. Therefore, the AP team are walking Around the World in AP days! Yes! you read that right. The team aim to walk around the world – logging their distances

Our team members log their distances (cycling, running, walking, ellipsis/cross trainer, rowing) done on a daily basis –with evidence, I hasten to add – James is very hot on this! The totals are plotted on our mapped-out route around the world. Our first destination is Paris, so watch this space for the next destination and updates.

Start - AP Security offices at Peregrine House to Eurotunnel le Shuttle France.

After just 4 days we have arrived in France !

After leaving the offices at Peregrine house the team have completed the first stage of the Around the World in AP Days adventure. The first stage consisted of 254km from our AP Security offices to the Eurotunnel at Folkestone and after a short ride arriving on French soil at the Eurotunnel in Coquelles France. The team have used a number of ways to make up the KM’s for the first stage which included riding, walking and running.

The next stage sees the Team make their way through the French countryside and on to the capital, Paris! From Paris they will then head

to Berlin then Moscow.

All the best to the team undertaking the fundraiser.

Elmas Housien

Diane Mulkeirins

James Handley

Stephen Layton

Mark Edwards

Liam Mulkeirins

Kevin Souter

Mel Winterman

Adam Simpson

Shai Wolf

Josh Phillips

Nigel Harman

Employee of the Month

Employee of the month this month goes to Ashton Lynch and Oluwafemi Odutola.

These two officers were involved in preventing a break in at one of our sites Alexandra Palace - Ashton suffered some bruising/grazing to his leg and Femi some minor bruising to his wrist during the incident. The Alexandra Palace, Chief Executive praised the the two individuals for their quick response that prevented items from being stolen, potential further damage to the pub on site and the subsequent arrest.

Well done to both officers!

Photo Caption

WhoisMarkEdwards?

could always fall back on. I went for an interview as a trainee spray painter but unfortunately the job had already been lined up for the managers nephew, however my details were passed onto the manager in the sheet metal workshop and so I began my working career as a trainee sheet metal worker.

After a couple of years enjoying working Monday to Friday to pay for nights out, cars and enjoying myself mixing with the wrong company - but a huge change was looming on the horizon!

or four times and welcomed second daughter “Ellie”, It was at this point I started to become bored working in the same factory. So, I applied for a job as a mobile patrol officer for a small security company based in Bognor Regis called Southern Security Group (SSG), thinking this would do while I looked for something else.

“He’s the Senior Operations Manager, isn’t he?”

I was born in a town called Hitchin in Hertfordshire in the early 70s, my Dad had a painting and decorating company and my Mum was an estate agent . I grew up on a brand-new council estate, where many of my close friends live to this day.

The first school that I attended was Purwell Junior School. I was an average student who enjoyed most lessons and eventually moved on to Highfield Secondary School. This is where things really changed for me. I became disruptive in lessons and would play truant as often as possible as I no longer enjoyed the lessons or the learning. One teacher asked at the start of a term if there was anyone who wasn't interested in learning? During my time at secondary school, I was suspended on a number occasions before being asked to leave school just before my 15th birthday in those days it was call expulsion.

I didn't have to go to school, I thought that I was really cleaver but my Dad took me to work with him to keep me out of further trouble. My Dad had just won the contracts for four new housing developments in an upand-coming town known today as Milton Keynes. Working on building sites at the age of 15 taught me life skills that you could never learn in school, although in hindsight I should have been made to continue with my education as I do not have one GCSE to my name.

When I reached the age of 16, the then legal age for leaving school my Dad asked me if I wanted to join the company as a full-time employee? My answer to this was “I don't want to be a painter and decorator for the rest of my life”. He then told me to get myself a trade as this would be something I

The girlfriend of one of my friends introduced me to a young lady called Nicki who was 17 years old living in Bognor Regis, we hit it off straight away and Nicki came up to stay in Hertfordshire for a few weeks. We saw each other every day and I even reverted back to my old school days of taking days off to spend time with her, everything was going great until she told me she had fallen pregnant, BIG SHOCK! The next few conversations were with family, and these couldn’t have gone any worse, so at the age of 18 I resigned from my job, packed up a suitcase, picked up my portable telly and drove away from family and friends to Bognor Regis to start a new chapter in my life with close family telling me I had ruined my life and that I would be back home in 6 months.

Arriving in Bognor Regis, I didn't know anyone except Nicki and her Mum, who had agreed to let us stay with her in her one bedroom flat until such time as we had found somewhere to live. The following day, I walked into a sheet metal company and asked if there was any work? This was the 1990s and the country was going through a recession, the owner gave me temporary work but couldn't guarantee how long it would last, I actually worked for the same company for 11 years becoming like fully skilled sheet metal worker.

In June 1991 Nikki and I welcomed a baby girl “Hannah” into our lives, Nicki was a month from her 18th Birthday, and I was not quite 20 years old, we were children having children with no money to our name. So to make ends meet I continue to work Monday to Friday in the factory while Nicki worked Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in a nursing home. So, while my friends were out enjoying the weekends, I was at home changing nappies.

In the following years we moved home three

This was my first taste of security, I only lasted as a Patrol Driver for three months before being given the opportunity to become a Controller. I quickly moved up the ranks to become the Senior Controller on shift. The Company was then sold and I TUPED to Emprise Services where I was recognised for my work ethics and quickly became the Control Room Manager, even dipping my toes into the financial side of the business before becoming an Operations Manager.

In 2013 the exciting opportunity to be part of the Manned Guarding Division for AP Security (APS) Ltd arose and I was lucky enough to be able to bring a number of staff along for the ride.

In May 2018, I suffered a heart attack, resulting in an emergency stent until I was able to be moved for a double heart by-pass operation. After 4 months of recuperation, I was able to return to work and have since been an avid Gym member, concentrating on my cardio workouts 4 to 5 times a week.

In the last couple of years I have celebrated both turning 50 years of age and being married to Nicki for 25 years (Silver Wedding Anniversary).

I am happy to say that my journey in life this far has had its ups and downs but if you put your mind to it, nothing is unachievable even for a boy from Hertfordshire who started out with no qualifications who now manages a portfolio of work including blue-chip companies and numerous staff and is achieving qualifications in the workplace.

So, the next time someone asks, “do you know Mark Edwards” the answer is “Yes, I do”.

And yes, we do! - From the Team at AP Manned Guarding.

BanterintheWorkplace

Written by Kevin Souter

Banter in the workplace is an age-old tradition that has been part of the working environment for decades. It is a form of humour that serves as a lubricant in social interactions and helps employees’ bond with each other. However, while banter is seen as a positive aspect of the work culture, it can also have its negative effects if not moderated properly.

more efficiently and is generally more successful.

Breaks the Monotony

Workplace banter can provide a reprieve from the often monotonous and repetitive nature of the workday. Engaging in light and playful banter provides a welcome interruption in the day, creating a momentary sense of relief from the daily routine. It can help workers keep their spirits high, even during stressful periods, prevent burnout and enhance the overall work experience.

Negative Aspects of Banter in the Workplace

boundaries. Clear expectations must be communicated about the type of humour that is allowed and encouraged in the workplace. There is a difference between witty, funny banter and hurtful, insensitive humour that can harm others. Creating an environment where employees feel comfortable and can discuss issues when banter steps over the line is essential.

Positive Aspects of Banter in the Workplace

Banter is generally seen as a positive aspect of the work culture. It allows workers to communicate in a cheerful, friendly, and often humorous manner, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. When conversations include jokes, witty remarks and verbal jousts, it energizes and lightens the mood of the workplace. Additionally, it can promote friendly competition between colleagues, with harmless teasing and playful banter providing a bonding experience that improves relationships within the workplace.

Improved Teamwork

Banter can help build a sense of unity and team spirit that could lead to improved teamwork. A work environment where employees feel comfortable and can communicate with each other creates a sense of comradery that promotes productivity, motivation, and overall job satisfaction. A team that gets along well is more cooperative, communicates better, solves problems

While workplace banter can have its benefits, it can also have its negative aspects. The most significant downside to banter is its potential to be offensive or hurtful to other employees. For instance, offhand comments or insensitive remarks based on race, gender, religion, age, sexuality or other demographic factors can be hurtful towards others, creating tension and disrupting the workplace environment.

In some cases, employees may view banter as having a negative impact on their participation in the workplace culture. Banter can create a gap between the employees who feel comfortable engaging in it and those who do not. Those who are introverted or reserved may feel marginalized if they do not feel able to take part in the banter, making them feel excluded from their peers.

Creating Positive Banter in the Workplace

Creating positive banter in the workplace is crucial to ensure it adds value to the work culture. To create positive and respectful banter, employees must be aware of and respect workplace

The most significant downside to banter is its potential to be offensive or hurtful to other employees.

It is critical to allow all employees to take part in banter and create an environment of inclusivity. Organizing activities or events outside of the workplace can provide another opportunity for workplace comradery that can create positive avenues for employees to bond.

In conclusion, banter is an important aspect of the workplace culture, but it can have its positive and negative aspects. It can build teamwork, encourage an enjoyable work environment, and create a sense of belonging; however, it can also be hurtful towards others and create divisions among employees. Establishing clear boundaries regarding what kind of banter is allowed in the workplace, promoting inclusivity, and being sensitive to nuances that may impact others can ensure that banter remains a positive aspect in the workplace culture.

Banter can help build a sense of unity and team spirit that could lead to improved teamwork.

DronesintheIndustry

By Adam Simpson

Drones have become an increasingly common sight in the skies over the past decade. Initially, they were mainly used by the military for reconnaissance and targeted strikes. However, the rapid development of technology and the decreasing cost of production have made drones more accessible to the public. This has led to the proliferation of civilian drone use, which has raised concerns about their potential dangers to the security industry. In this article, we will examine the various ways in which drones pose a threat to security and explore potential solutions to mitigate these risks.

One of the most significant dangers posed by drones to the security industry is their potential use as a weapon. Drones equipped with cameras, explosives, or other weapons can be used to attack targets such as critical infrastructure, government buildings, or public gatherings. The use of drones as weapons is not a theoretical possibility, as demonstrated by recent incidents in which drones have been used to attack military bases or launch targeted assassinations.

Another concern is the use of drones for espionage or surveillance. Drones equipped with highresolution cameras and other sensors can be used to gather intelligence on targets, whether they are individuals, organizations, or entire countries. This poses a significant risk to national and corporate security, as it can compromise sensitive information and potentially expose vulnerabilities in security systems.

Given the many potential dangers of drones to the security industry, it is clear that action needs to be taken to mitigate these risks. One possible solution is the develop-

ment of counter-drone technologies. These technologies include systems that can detect and track drones, as well as devices that can jam or disable drones in flight. While these technologies are still in their early stages of development, they hold great promise for mitigating the risks posed by drones to the security industry.

Another potential solution is the development of regulatory frameworks for drone use. Governments and international organizations are working to develop regulations for the use of drones, including restrictions on where and when they can be flown, as well as requirements for registration and certification. These regulations can help to ensure that drones are used safely and responsibly and can help to prevent their use for illegal or malicious purposes.

Education and awareness campaigns can also play a role in mitigating the risks posed by drones. Many people who use drones for recreational purposes may not be aware of the potential dangers they pose, or the regulations that govern their use. Educating the public about the risks and regulations related to the use of drones could be vital in improving their safe and secure operation.

The use of drones in the UK is regulated by the CAA, the key

points of which are:

Registration: All drones weighing over 250g must be registered with the CAA. The registration process involves taking an online test and paying a fee.

Operating Rules: Drones must be flown within line of sight, below 400 feet, and at least 150 meters away from congested areas and people. Drones cannot be flown over or near airports without permission, and they must not be flown in restricted airspace.

Pilot Certification: Pilots of drones that weigh over 250g must obtain a drone pilot certification from the CAA. This involves taking an online test and completing a practical flight assessment.

I encourage you to visit the CAA website to learn more.

But government regulation, sci-fi signal jammers and drone detection aside, what are we as security operatives able to do to reduce the threat of drones to ourselves, our clients and the public in general? As always, we remain vigilant and stay alert.

PetCorner

Can you match the owner to the pet?

One of our employees is the proud owner of Haatchi – the Alaskan Malamute. Haatchi is a big ball of fluff who loves cuddling and laying on her back with her legs in the air! She knows quite a few of the staff and can often be heard barking her orders for a stroke or a walk!

TheUseofTechnologyinthe

SecurityIndustry

In the United Kingdom, the security industry has undergone significant technological advancements in recent years.

The role of technology in the current security industry cannot be overemphasized, as it has become a critical component of ensuring safety and security across various sectors in the country.

One of the primary areas where technology has made a significant impact in the security industry is in surveillance. With the advancements in surveillance technology, there are now various forms of surveillance cameras that can be used to monitor public areas and private spaces. These cameras are equipped with features such as facial recognition technology, motion detection, and remote access, which make them highly effective in detecting and deterring criminal activities. The use of surveillance cameras has become increasingly common in the United Kingdom, and they have been deployed in various public spaces such as train stations, airports, and shopping centers, among others. Additionally, businesses and homeowners can now install CCTV cameras in their premises to monitor their properties remotely.

Another area where technology has made significant strides in the security industry is in access control systems. Access control systems use various technologies such as biometrics, smart cards, and key fobs to grant access to authorized individuals. These systems have become increasingly popular in the UK, especially in large organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies, where controlling access to sensitive areas is critical.

The use of technology in the current security industry has also improved communication and coordination between security personnel. Mobile technology, such as smartphones and tablets, has made it easier for security per-

By James Handley

sonnel to communicate with each other, share information, and coordinate their efforts.

Another critical aspect of the security industry where technology has played a significant role is in cybersecurity. With the increasing dependence on technology, cyber threats have become a significant concern for organizations and governments. The United Kingdom has implemented various measures to ensure cybersecurity, including the establishment of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The NCSC works to protect the country from cyber attacks by providing guidance and support to organizations and government agencies. The NCSC also collaborates with other international cybersecurity organizations to ensure that the United Kingdom is well-protected against cyber threats.

Furthermore, the use of biometric technology has become increasingly prevalent in the security industry. Biometric technology uses unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris recognition to identify individuals. This technology has become critical in the identification and tracking of criminals and terrorists. Biometric technology has been used in various areas in the United Kingdom, such as border control, law enforcement, and

access control systems.

The use of drones has also become a critical aspect of the security industry in the United Kingdom. Drones are used in various security operations, such as search and rescue operations, surveillance, and crowd control. The use of drones has significantly improved the effectiveness and efficiency of security operations, especially in areas where access is limited or dangerous.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning has also become prevalent in the security industry in the United Kingdom. AI and machine learning technologies can be used to analyse vast amounts of data, detect anomalies, and identify potential threats. These technologies have become critical in the identification and prevention of criminal activities, especially in areas such as cybersecurity, fraud detection, and intelligence gathering.

In conclusion, the role of technology in the current security industry in the United Kingdom cannot be overemphasized. From surveillance and access control systems to cybersecurity, biometric technology, drones, and AI, technology has become a critical component of ensuring safety and security across various sectors in the country.