Statistics show that there are more security officers than police. Security personnel are filling an ever-growing range of roles, with a much greater interface with the general public. Many now work with new, sophisticated technologies in order to be able to accomplish their responsibilities.

In view of the position of responsibility that the police hold, we expect them to meet certain operational and training standards. Unfortunately, society has tended to show less concern about the standards being met by manned security services companies. It is all too easy to see a security officer as just someone on the gate or the front desk, and not to consider what they are really there to do… protect your staff and your assets. Stories about “cowboy” outfits abound, but it can be difficult for organisations to make the right choice when faced with the number of manned security companies in the market place. It was with this background that a decision was made to form Oakwood Security Limited, with the intention to create a reputable company that will provide best value rather than just the cheapest service.

Our staff are committed to maintaining high professional standards in their work and appearance as well as providing a caring, discreet and effective security service to every one of our customers. A constant spur is the thought that: “If we don’t look after our customers – somebody else will” and of course, we remind all readers our company motto… "IN STRENGTH AND STABILITY"

Our initial approach to your security needs follows a well-established pattern…

• We Listen to what you have to say about your organisation, it’s problems and any unusual requirements or aspects.
• We Study the situation and carry out a thorough and comprehensive security survey.
• We Recommend the security measures, which need to be implemented and of course advise on the cost of doing so.
• We Act with your agreement on those measures, providing a security service tailored to meet your precise needs.
• We Keep in Touch thereafter the service is monitored through our extensive supervisory programme and regular meetings with management.

• Application Form: An application form must be completely filled out in the presence of a company representative prior to interview. This will contain a complete account of the applicant's career history as well as declarations on Physical fitness and a written statement of medical history, Civil, Criminal, and military convictions, Statutory declaration outlining an acknowledgement that misrepresentation will constitute gross misconduct which is grounds for dismissal Written authorisation from the applicant to contact previous employers, educational facilities, solicitors, and personal references.
• Pre-Screening: of Applicants All applicants will be pre-screened based on the aforementioned application form, and CVs, by an Oakwood Security representative. Two-Tier Interview Process
• Initial Interview: Initial interviews are conducted by Oakwood Security human resources personnel, who verify details provided on the application form with the applicant. Copies of relevant documents (birth certificates, driving licenses, educational/vocational training documentation, military discharge papers, passport, etc.) are obtained at this point. An assessment is made by the interviewer as to the applicant's physical and mental ability to perform the duties outlined in the position description they are applying for. General demeanour, as well as written and verbal communication skills will also be evaluated.
• Managerial/Operational Interview: Advanced interviews will be conducted by Oakwood Security Operations and Human Resources Managers. The applicant's aptitude to succeed at a specific position within a specific contract will be evaluated. Oakwood Security draws on over 15 years of experience and data to help make appropriate hiring decisions. Oakwood Security has specific profiling techniques aimed at matching potential applicants with specific sites and clients.
• Vetting: Oakwood Security operates vetting procedures that fully comply with the requirements of the Inspectorate of Security Industry (ISI) and BS 7499. The following is a partial list of vetting activities: An initial telephone vet will be conducted going back five years. Upon successful completion of the five-year vet, an applicant may receive an offer of employment on a probationary basis. All applicants will be "vetted back", in writing, ten years or to school leaving age whichever is the lesser, Oakwood Security reserves the right to go back as far as twenty years based on suspicion or at client request. The more stringent written vetting process must be completed within thirteen weeks in order for the applicant to successfully move from probationary status to that of full-time employee. Click here for a list of vetting activities

Oakwood is an industry leader in the development, implementation and administration of highly successful Safety and Security training programs. Oakwood views training as a core-competency and takes responsibility for ensuring that all employees have the necessary tools and skills to be successful in performing their specific duties. Upon award of the contract Oakwood will develop an annual training plan and program that meets all contractual training requirements. The following is a partial list of what an effective training program is based on and aims to achieve:

• Develops: and maintains the necessary proficiencies of the security team.
• Encourages: growth and development and assists every employee in advancing to the maximum of his or her ability and meeting their career objectives.
• Meets: and exceeds industry-driven criteria and standards.
• Anticipates: and responds to changing industry requirements.
• Focuses: on customer Safety and Security needs and objectives.
• Transfers: specific values and beliefs about Oakwood and the client that positively impact service delivery.
• Assists:: in achieving business objectives of Oakwood and the client

Components of the initial training include:

• Oakwood Security overview and orientation
• Client specific overview and orientation
• Introduction and historical perspective of the Security Industry
• Expectations of employer/employee partnership and outcomes of training
• Specific course criteria and training
• Customer service principles

A written examination will be administered for each course of instruction. The trainee must achieve a minimum score of 85 percent to continue in the training program. If an individual fails to achieve a passing score, the section will be re-instructed and a second examination will be administered. If a passing score is not achieved, the trainee will be removed from the program. Oakwood will maintain training certification records in each individual's records file. Following completion of the classroom portion of initial training, each trainee must complete a formal, documented On-the-Job Training (OJT) program prior to being assigned as a fully qualified security officer. Oakwood uses an extensive OJT program managed by the training team and the appropriate Operations Manager. The duration of the OJT program is flexible dependent upon the number of contract-specific requirements. Most programs are designed to be completed within the initial 30 days of assignment. The OJT programs, combined with the written examinations and the performance testing, have consistently developed highly knowledgeable, highly competent security officers for our clients. All newly promoted Supervisors will also receive formal, documented OJT based on training, procedural, and duty requirements. The rationale for the Oakwood OJT is to develop front-line personnel and supervisors for the next level of promotion, thereby improving our management depth and ensuring succession planning. The initial training and OJT obviously cover a great deal of ground. Therefore, refresher training is extremely important to reinforce training ideals over time. Additionally, on-going refresher training allows employees to further develop skills and feel a sense of pride and achievement. Oakwood’s goal is to increase job satisfaction and minimise turnover. Oakwood strives to provide three hours of issue-based refresher training per employee, per quarter. This training is intended to positively impact individual performance at each of Oakwood's security contracts.