Category: Blog

What does the future of security look like as our cities become smarter and more connected? Read the latest ConSeC 26 feature in The Security Briefing, exploring this year’s theme, programme and the conversations set to take place on 29th October at the Hinxton Hall.

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Access control systems record movement. CCTV captures thousands of hours of footage. Threat intelligence platforms issue alerts around the clock. Incident reports, visitor logs, cyber monitoring, travel advisories and business continuity updates all add another layer to an already crowded picture. 

So, here’s the question: 

If organisations have never had more information available, why do so many still struggle to make timely, confident security decisions? 

The answer isn’t a lack of technology. 

The answer is no; better decisions come from turning the right information into meaningful intelligence, supported by professional judgement and effective security processes. 

“The essence of the independent mind lies not in what it thinks, but in how it thinks.”  
                                                                                                                     – Christopher Hitchens 

Twenty years ago, the challenge was collecting information. Today, the challenge is deciding which information matters. Security professionals are expected to distinguish genuine risk from background noise, often within minutes and sometimes with incomplete information. Every delayed decision carries consequences but acting too quickly without context can be just as damaging.

Information is Everywhere (But Security Intelligence Is Rare) 

Most organisations have invested significantly in security technology over the last decade. Access control has become smarter. CCTV has become more intelligent. Sensors are more capable. Analytics are more sophisticated than ever before. Yet many security teams continue to work across disconnected systems. 

Physical security, cyber security and operational teams often work from separate platforms. Information is stored in different places, reported in different formats and interpreted independently. Valuable intelligence exists, but it remains fragmented. 

What’s the Cost of Information Overload? 

Security has entered an age of information abundance. Every incident, movement and anomaly can be recorded, analysed and reported in real time. 

When every system competes for attention, prioritisation becomes increasingly difficult. Teams spend valuable time validating information, switching between platforms and piecing together fragmented insights before they can respond with confidence. 

The organisations that perform best aren’t necessarily those with the most technology. They’re the ones that have found ways to transform information into clear and actionable intelligence. 

Simply introducing more technology does not solve this problem. When systems operate independently or produce information without sufficient context, they can create complexity rather than clarity. Effective decision-making depends on presenting the right information to the right people at the right time, enabling them to assess risk with confidence instead of navigating disconnected streams of data. 

For many organisations, the real opportunity lies not in collecting more information but in making better use of the intelligence they already possess. Integrating systems, improving information sharing and establishing clear processes can transform data from a collection of isolated inputs into meaningful insight that supports timely and proportionate action. 

Packaging Security Intelligence into Better Decisions  

Information has little value unless it leads to informed action. While technology plays an increasingly important role in identifying risks and highlighting patterns, effective security still depends on the ability to interpret that information within the context of an organisation’s people, operations and objectives. 

Turning insight into action requires more than sophisticated platforms or intelligent analytics. It calls for a clear understanding of risk, well-defined governance and the confidence to make decisions based on evidence rather than assumption. Technology can provide visibility, but it is professional judgement that determines how organisations respond and whether those responses are proportionate with timing and efficiency. 

Ultimately, successful security is measured not by the amount of data an organisation collects, but by its ability to transform that data into decisions that protect people, assets and operations. In the increasing threat complexities ecosystem, the organisations that will be best prepared are those that can combine technology and experience for collaboration with sound professional judgement. 

Continuing the Conversation 

These questions sit at the heart of the ASC Summer Seminar 2026, taking place on 3^rd September at the British Library Knowledge Centre. 

Under the theme “From Insight to Action: Enhancing Decision Making Through Modern Security Technologies,” the seminar will examine how security professionals can make better operational decisions in increasingly complex environments. 

Rather than focusing solely on new technologies, the programme explores how organisations can use them more effectively. The seminar also reflects the Association of Security Consultants’ wider priorities around professional development, governance, strategic growth, the SABRE Accreditation Scheme and support for the Chartered Security Professional (CSyP) pathway.  

Join fellow security consultants, risk managers and industry leaders at the ASC Summer Seminar to investigate practical approaches to security executive determination. Register your interest now: https://lightgrey-toad-866619.hostingersite.com/event/asc-summer-seminar-3rd-september/ 

13 July 2026 marked a standout moment for the sector as more than 250 women and allies came together at Tesco Headquarters for an inspirational, heartwarming and memorable event designed to celebrate progress, amplify voices and strengthen connections across security. 

Hosted by Rachel Bennett, Security and Shrink Director at Tesco, and organised by the WISE UK and Tesco team, the day brought together an impressive programme of 36 speakers to share journeys, stories and practical insight from across the industry. 

Welcoming sponsors through exhibition stands and speaking slots, the event created space for conversation, collaboration and visibility, while reinforcing a shared mission to reduce the gender gap and support equity across the sector. Thank you to the sponsors Zinc Systems, Vars Technology, Smoke Screen, Convergint, Mitie, Duress, Association of Security Consultants, Abloy, Ocular, Todd Research and DNA Selecta.   

The atmosphere throughout was unmistakably selfless and uplifting, with attendees describing a room full of energy, generosity and purpose, a celebration of what can happen when women and allies are given a platform to lead, learn and inspire. 

Wellbeing, lived experience, and everyday support. 

The speaker programme opened up vital conversations around wellbeing, inclusion and the realities many women face in and beyond the workplace. 

Michelle Russell, Chief Executive of the Security Industry Authority, gave a forward-looking perspective on the future landscape of security, emphasising the importance of adaptation, standards and leadership as the industry evolves. 

Nicola Sharp-Jeffs spoke on economic abuse and another type of security, broadening the conversation around the forms of harm that can shape lives both inside and outside the workplace. 

Peachus Bra Fitting spoke on women’s wellness, bra fit and pain-free living, underlining how comfort and confidence can affect daily performance and quality of life. 

Herizen followed with an important discussion on menopause in the workplace, exploring the need for education, training and awareness so organisations can better support colleagues through every stage of their careers. 

Third App with Rosie McInerney shared powerful insight into her app, designed to record domestic abuse and feelings of uncertainty, helping build evidence for police reports when the time is right and giving survivors a more secure way to document what they experience. 

Crunch Mediation’s Nermina Webster highlighted the value of workplace mediation before grievance policies, showing how early intervention can help resolve issues constructively and protect working relationships. 

WalkSafe’s Asia Worgan discussed the WalkSafe app, which helps women track journeys and take the safer route home, offering a practical example of how technology can support personal safety in everyday life. 

Technology, safety and the future of security 

The event also examined how technology and intelligence are reshaping modern security practice. 

Zinc Systems and CEO Joe Zielinski hosted a panel on supercharged cases and AI in intelligence, incident, and case management, featuring Lois Savage, Jo Bloomfield, and Laura Turner, exploring the capabilities of humans and AI and the future role of technology in mitigating crime and exploring the opportunities and responsibilities that come with smarter systems and data-led approaches. 

Ocular Chantal Anabtawi covered the move from isolated systems to connected intelligence, reflecting the sector’s growing need for joined-up insight and stronger decision-making. 

Helen Clayton hosted a panel on technology, and it is impacting communities with Iona Blake, Ann Marie Martin, Nicola Stitch, John Garnett and Matt Gilmartin, exploring the opportunities and responsibilities that come with smarter systems and data-led approaches. 

Debbie Carter led a lone worker safety panel with Adam Gergiss, Lauren Macdonald and Laura Turner, shining a light on the realities of working alone and the importance of robust support, planning and protection. 

Leadership, collaboration and a powerful close 

Lisa O’Flynn from Abloy hosted a Women in Security Network panel that provided insights on imposter syndrome, connection, coaching, mentoring, being a sponsor and making promises that see everyone’s light shine with panellists Liz Lloyd, Emma Harris, Ruth Sharman, Demelza Staples, and Sarah Jane Cork.  

Human Giving and the Impact, which saw Gaby Price, CEO of Women’s Aid in Luton, share how the Women’s network has supported the environment in the refuge, making it a temporary home for women and children fleeing domestic abuse. The power of giving and the importance of supporting women on career pathways and a journey of safety.  

Simon Crane hosted a panel on designing safety for the Association of Security Consultants, with Kate Dawes, Michelle Elkins, and Leigh Harper, focusing on the value of shared expertise, communication and collaborative design in creating safer environments. 

The day concluded with a final keynote from Figen Murray, whose closing message brought the audience together around the power of action, resilience and collective responsibility. 

With thanks to the sponsors, speakers, guests, and Tesco for hosting such an amazing event, which was a clear reminder of the impact of connection, visibility, and shared purpose. The day was photographed by Senem Peace, who is the Women in Security official photographer and has captured the event to provide memories for everyone who attended.  

WISE UK, founded by Liz Lloyd, Emma Harris and Sarah-Jane Cork, continues to drive connection, empowerment and opportunity across the security sector and beyond. This landmark day showed exactly why that mission matters. 

Security Journal United Kingdom SJUK Features ASC’s 2026 Board of Directors Announcement.

View the full press release

Association of Security Consultants Annual General Meeting 2026 

This week, the ASC held its Annual General Meeting 2026, an important milestone in the Association’s continued development under the themes of Growth, Governance, and Guardianship. 

Over the past year, the ASC has made significant strides: adopting the SABRE Accreditation Scheme, securing a licence to support the Chartered Security Professional (CSyP) pathway, and strengthening our governance structures to better serve members across the security sector. 

Before looking ahead, we extend our sincere appreciation to the Board members continuing their service and leadership: Simon Crane, Lee Doddridge, Michelle Elkins MBE, Nigel Cook, Frank Doherty, Dennis Roe, and Roger Noakes. 

We also take great pleasure in welcoming three newly elected Directors to the ASC Board, Archie Phillips, Danny Moody, and Christopher Aldous. Their appointments bring fresh perspective and a broadened range of expertise to an evolving and growing membership. 

As ASC Chair Simon Crane noted at the AGM: 

“A growing membership brings growing responsibilities. We’ve expanded our leadership team to meet them and to ensure the Association is well placed for the years ahead. Our returning directors have laid the foundation, our new members are here to build on it.” 

We congratulate our new Directors and thank every ASC member for their continued support and engagement. The Association’s strength lies in its people and we look forward to building on that together. 

Stay connected as we share more on the work taking place across the ASC. 

The second consultation for the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, also known as Martyn’s Law, has been launched.

This is an important opportunity for everyone to express their opinions. The proposed revisions include the removal of the requirement for the standard tier to complete a standard tier evaluation or terrorism awareness training for relevant workers.

Many organisations have already carefully considered Martyn’s Law and its impact. Now is the time to be heard and ensure that it is implemented in a way that will save lives in the future.

Your chance to have your say 

As we reflect on 2023, I would like to express my gratitude to the ASC Board, our valued members and friends for their unwavering support.

As Chair, I aim to ensure that the ASC’s position as a vital industry leader continues. 2024 will see some exciting new changes – beginning with a new location for our upcoming Business Group seminars and networking events. We’ve managed to secure the Institution of Engineering & Technology, just next to Waterloo Bridge, to make the events even more accessible and convenient for our speakers and a growing number of attendees. The future focus of our business group meetings will be the professional development of members, our industry cohorts and to effectively network with like-minded individuals.

We’re pleased to announce that our first guest speaker for the February meeting will be Dennis Roe – this year’s ASC Imbert Award winner – who will present his dissertation on the topic of how ‘risky’ surveyors are when designing security and surveillance solutions. We’ll also be including an open table session for members to contribute their thoughts and industry insights and solutions in this field.

 To secure your space at this year’s Business Group meetings, drop us a line with the dates you’ll be joining us:

• Thursday, 22nd February 2024
• Thursday, 16th May 2024
• Thursday, 19th September 2024
• Wednesday, 13th November 2024

During my last few months as Chair, I’ve been reassured to see that our ASC members remain a professional and sought-after group of subject matter experts (SMEs) who play a pivotal role in advancing understanding and innovation within the security sector. As SMEs our members produce a significant volume of current and relevant material which the ASC now intends to archive as a definitive resource, preserving valuable insights. Archiving our research, academic insights and collateral ensures the continuity of knowledge and serves as a roadmap for defining industry best practices. This, in turn, contributes to the evolution and improvement of practices within the security sector. With the development of our website – www.lightgrey-toad-866619.hostingersite.com –  this vital repository  will become a searchable resource, providing a significant membership benefit, and supporting continuing professional development and competency.

Many of you will remember that during lockdown, we held several successful and thought-provoking webinars. We now plan to expand on these accessible online sessions in the coming months, and our Board Lead Ross Harvey, will update you with details soon. 

One of our other Board Directors, Simon Crane, has been busy conducting a feasibility study on an overseas membership program. The program aims to expand network opportunities, shared experiences and knowledge for members both domestically and internationally. Again, more details will be shared on our website soon.

An additional exciting change will see the ASC Awards Ceremony merge with CONSEC 24. Next year’s venue will be The Hilton, Heathrow T5, allowing us to accommodate more exhibitors and delegates than ever before. CONSEC 24 will take place on October 17th and allows us to finally mark our slightly ‘Pandemic-delayed’ 30^th Anniversary. CONSEC 24 will include a celebration dinner to celebrate 30 years of CONSEC in style, with a presentation of both the Imbert and Mike Cahalane Awards.

The ASC is also honoured to be announced as the main sponsor of the Women in Security Awards on September 23rd at the Underglobe in London. This is an important industry red-carpet event, and we are thrilled to be hosting the awards in 2024.

Finally, for those who enjoy the opportunity to dress up, our Annual End of Year meal will take place at the House of Lords on Friday 6^th December. I would like to thank everyone who attended the meal this year, as well as our sponsors, TSP, Genetec and CIE, for making it a fantastic evening. 

Congratulations to Joe Connell, the previous ASC Chair, who received his Honorary Lifetime ASC Membership, and to the three finalists of the Imbert Award.

I will sign off by wishing everyone a very prosperous and safe 2024.

Gary Thomas, ASC Chair