What's new? August 2024 by cis-security

August 2024

Here’s our new edition of What’s New?, where we will keep you in the loop of all things CIS!

Amanda McCloskey Sales & Marketing Director

SPOTLIGHT ON COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT

Comment from Neill Catton, Managing Director

Investing in top-tier security services through a dedicated approach to colleague development tailored to our customer’s needs.

“We stand out in the security industry for our investment and commitment to a tailored approach to colleague development through a comprehensive training and leadership programme. As threats evolve, the need for highly skilled and adaptable security experts has never been more critical. Recognising this, we have invested in a robust colleague development function that ensures we are fully equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to meet these challenges head-on”.

COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT FOCUS AREAS

Training modules designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of security operations.

5* CUSTOMER SERVICE

Recognising the importance of excellent customer service in security, courses are offered to improve interpersonal skills and client relations.

TECHNOLOGY PROFICIENCY CRISIS MANAGEMENT OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Specialised training in handling emergencies, including conflict resolution and disaster response, ensuring team members can confidently deal with high-pressure situations.

With technology’s growing role in security, courses on the latest security software and surveillance tools keep the team ahead of the curve.

Understanding that each employee has unique strengths and areas for improvement, CIS provides personalised development plans. These plans are tailored to help individuals achieve their career goals while meeting the company’s and customers strategic objectives.

Regular reviews and feedback ensure that every team member has the support and guidance to advance and succeed.

COMPREHENSIVE COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT &

LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME

We operate the largest internal Colleague Development Team in the Industry! The team consists of security professionals with hands-on knowledge and expertise, having ‘walked in the shoes’ of our teams. This ‘on the ground’ knowledge and expertise make our training team exceptional.

CIS’s colleague training program is meticulously designed to cover a broad spectrum of needs, from basic security principles to advanced crisis management techniques. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest security trends and technologies, ensuring all team members are well-prepared for any situation.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Leadership qualities are valued and nurtured at CIS with a particular emphasis on developing the next generation of leaders. Management training programs equip potential leaders with the skills to inspire and effectively guide their teams. Topics covered include leadership styles, team dynamics, strategic planning, and decision-making.

IMPACT ON OUR COLLEAGUES, CUSTOMERS

AND

COMMUNITIES

KEY STATS - JULY 2023 TO JULY 2024

Number of courses undertaken

Number of colleagues attending courses

The investment in colleague development has paid significant dividends for CIS. Colleagues report higher job satisfaction and engagement, leading to lower turnover rates. The team’s enhanced skill set has improved service delivery, with a noticeable impact on customer satisfaction and business growth.

CIS’s colleague development function is a cornerstone of its operational strategy. By prioritising the growth and development of its teams, CIS has not only bolstered its capabilities but also established itself as an employer of choice within the security industry. The company’s commitment to excellence in training ensures it is well-equipped to meet today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS

DANIEL STANGER COMPANY TRAINER

NICOLE BROWN LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT CO-ORDINATOR

Daniel is passionate about passing on his knowledge, skills, and behaviours and always strives to create He is highly experienced and qualified to deliver various courses in Security, First Aid, Health & Safety, Fire Safety, and Customer Service. He started his security career whilst at university, where he studied Computer Science, focused on how computer applications enhance learning. Daniel is able to compliment CIS’s drive to support young people into work by being an ambassador and mentor for CIS apprentices.

Nicole is the glue that holds the colleague development team together. Her attention to detail ensures courses are advertised, organised and scheduled, including sourcing materials, invigulating and managing the online learning environment (EdApp).

COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS

DARCY FLETCHER

COMPANY TRAINER / PARAMEDIC

LEE LEYLAND COMPANY TRAINIER

Darcy’s training experience is underpinned by an extensive academic and operational background. She has a Bachelor of Science in Paramedic, a masters in Disaster Management and Resilience and a CMI Level 7 in Strategic Management, combined with training to become a female leadership advocate.

She has served as a paramedic since 2019 and worked at the FIFA World Cup 2022 event in Qatar, gaining vital Middle East experience. Specialising in training first aid, first response emergency care level 3 and mental health first aid, her enthusiasm for training and learning positively impacts everyone she meets.

Lee served in the British Army for 22 years and all around the world with numerous tours of duties in theatres of combat.

Upon leaving the British Army, he went into the Security Industry, working on a number of contracts as a security officer and was promoted to security manager and then trained to be a training manager.

Lee continues to challenge himself to gain further teaching qualifications such as Conflict Management, Physical Intervention, First Aid, Handcuffs and Restraint, most recently he has completed the Level 4 Internal Quality Assessment course.

COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS

PAULA ORTON COMPANY TRAINER

Paula Orton, as a subject matter expert in Customer Services, loves to share her expertise and passion for customer service with CIS colleagues. With over ten years of front-of-house experience in both corporate reception and five-star hotels, she has developed a strong foundation in providing exceptional customer service.

Paula’s goal is to give all CIS colleagues the opportunity to learn from her experience and enhance the company’s reputation for providing exceptional customer service to everyone.

COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS

JIM MCALLISTER QPM INTERIM HEAD OF COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT

Jim is passionate about role-based training, standards and the continuous professional development.

Jim has become a nationally recognised expert in public order and public safety policing with extensive experience in crisis management, training design and consultancy. He has provided training, guidance and advice on a regional, national and international platforms. And has been involved in the training of police leaders and resources in the UK, Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and the Middle East.

His focus is on providing professional consultancy and individual coaching within a decision-making environment. Specialising in the following fields:

• Command and control

• Strategic, tactical and operational leadership

• Training and assessment design

• Train the trainer

• Heal th safety and welfare specialist

• Assessment and internal verification

• Strategic, tactical and operational testing

COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS

STEVE WICKS TRAINING MANAGER

Steve Wicks has been a valued member of CIS Security for 26 years after leaving the Royal Air Force. For the last 17 years Steve has been an extremely successful company trainer helping to develop the award-winning training team into what it is now.

Steve is a subject matter expert in Physical Intervention and has an excellent knowledge in security training, conflict management, counter terrorist awareness training, first aid and pre-hospital emergency care.

In his free time, Steve is a very keen cyclist and runner, and has used both interests to raise money for the London Air Ambulance. When asked if he had a motto, he replied “Just a little bit more”, this is what push’s him to succeed in his role as Training Manager and when training for his next cycling or running event.

COLLEAGUE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS

SIMON RILEY

BEHAVIOURAL DETECTION & TRAINING SPECIALIST

With over 20+ years as a metropolitan police office and having served as the Met’s lead for Behavioural detection, Simon brings a unique skill sets and extensive operational and tactical experience to our colleagues and customers. Simon can create bespoke solutions for threats to people and venues and offer site specific workshops and training sessions fully aligned to the geographical area, giving a clear view of what the threat looks like ‘on the ground’.

EY WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAMME

CIS proudly provides mentoring opportunities for the EY Work Experience Programme!

For the second year running, we have offered students enrolled in the EY Foundation Secure Futures Programme the opportunity to shadow one of our Account Managers, Callum Hobbs.

Callum started his career in the security industry through a graduate scheme and is now passionate about providing students with the opportunity to experience the working environment positively and inclusively.

Over the three-day work experience period, Ayodeji Agbi and Cheyian Hedaux were first introduced to CIS, where they learned about our vision, what we do, our culture, and our career development opportunities. Following this, they visited some key customers within the City of London’s square mile. Ayo and Cheyian were introduced to the importance of high service standards and excellent customer engagement.

Callum said, “The three days with Ayo and Cheyian showcased their dedication, passion, and readiness to enter the working world. It was a pleasure to host them, and I look forward to further supporting young people in this industry.”

We wish Ayo and Cheyian all the very best with their journey into the world of work.

CIS CELEBRATING WOMEN IN SECURITY

The Women in Security Awards gives us an industry platform to recognise our fantastic women who go above and beyond each day, showing passion, determination and leadership whilst keeping people and spaces safe.

Well done to our nominees Joanne Gordon, Kim Collins, Lavern Fowler, Darcy Fletcher, Christyll – Ann Bryans, Aga Jonker, Iros Groenwal, Sigita Gedrimaite, Tracy Plant, Carolina Edwards Brown and Crina Somesan.

And Congratulations to Christyll-Ann, who has been selected as a finalist!

We actively relish the challenge of encouraging women to join the security industry, evidenced by recruiting 173 women in the past year and our plan to implement women-only assessment days from October 2024.

INTERNATIONAL SECURITY OFFICERS’ DAY

International Security Officers’ Day is celebrated every year on 24 July. This is an opportunity to thank our colleagues for keeping us safe 24/7.

What a great event, visiting and thanking our amazing security colleagues across London and the regions.

Words can’t express how grateful we are to our frontline teams, who keep people and places safe every day with their unwavering service and dedication.

PATERNOSTER EXTENSION

Providing Security Services for Paternoster Square Estate for a further two years!

Paternoster Square is rich in history and can trace its origins to medieval Paternoster Row, where the clergy of St Paul’s once walked, holding their rosary beads, and reciting the ‘Paternoster’, or Lord’s Prayer (Paternoster translates as ‘Our Father’). Today, it is a fantastic venue, with retail and office developments embracing the area’s heritage and reclaiming the open space enjoyed by residents, occupants, and visitors.

Since August 2021, we have provided high-performing security services aligned with Paternoster Square Estate’s values, delivering team recognition and personal development. We are delighted to continue this collaborative partnership and look forward to our team’s continued success.

Paternoster Square’s Operations Director, Teena Gill said,

“CIS has worked extremely hard over the last 3 years at Paternoster Square and has delivered exceptional service to us as a client and to our occupiers; therefore, extending the contract for a further two years was an easy decision for me. Our Head of Security has excelled in his deliverables and continues to provide exemplary service for the Estate. The team and I are very excited to see what the next two years brings and we look forward to growing our partnership with CIS”.

HERE EAST EXTENSION

We are thrilled to provide Here East with Security Services for another year!

Here East is a multi-award winning innovation campus in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London. Initially built for the London 2012 Olympics, it has become a bustling centre for startups, global companies, and academic institutions. The campus offers studio spaces, offices, and workshops to foster collaboration and innovation.

We are thrilled to have been awarded a contract extension until 2025. Providing security services since August 2021, we have worked closely with the Here East team, delivering on our promise to fully align with their vision and values. The security team consistently enhances the customer experience through passion, determination and collaboration.

Head of Security & Front of House, Leighton Jones, said,

“I am happy to confirm the extension of our contract with CIS Security as Here East’s Security Service provider until the end of 2025. It’s a testament to their invaluable collaboration and support as our partnership has evolved. This extension reaffirms our commitment to security, safety, and innovation at Here East, allowing us to continue developing cutting-edge security solutions tailored to our unique environment in East London. Together, we look forward to setting new standards in security excellence”.

PWC MANAGEMENT INDUCTION

A HUGE welcome to PwC Management!

On Thursday 15th of August CIS hosted a welcome management induction to the team at PWC following their successful TUPE transfer - with Security Operations Managers, David Phee, Adam Skillen and Simon Davis, and Deputy Operations Manager, Pete McMichael, in attendance. The day consisted of the managers attending both Head Office and our London Office, meeting each department within the company allowing them to understand the in-house support available to them and the processes to follow.

This was an extremely successful day with all managers enjoying meeting the wide CIS team. We all look forward to working with you going forward!

Adam Skillen, Security Operation Manager, Belfast stated.

“I found the managers induction really useful to gain insight into the various departments that CIS have their stakeholders and offerings they can deliver. It was also fantastic to put faces to names and feel included into the firm. Really appreciate all the effort that went into arranging this.”

David Phee, Security Operation Manager, Embankment stated.

“The manager’s induction was our first chance to meet the CIS team fully and live in person which is always so much better than online. Overall, the day was super productive. Being able to meet the different departments of CIS and hearing how they can assist us in delivering a better service to PwC will be invaluable in the weeks and months ahead.”

RECOMMENDING A FRIEND TO CIS PAYS OFF!

We are recruiting and we want you to be part of it! We offer you the chance to get £250 if you recommend someone and if they pass their 3-month probation.

Doing it is simple! Get them to view our company website and apply on-line for any positions that are suited to them, stating CIS Employee & your name in the recruitment source.

NEW BUSINESS

TECHNOLOGY & SERVICE UPDATES

MEET OUR INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TEAM

Kainth Head of Innovative Solutions

Kuldeep

ONE CREECHURCH PLACE

Working with Full Circle Systems, we recently installed an additional external PTZ camera at One Creechurch Place. This project involved the addition of new conduit, new cabling for both data and electrical, as well as the installation of the unit itself; high level on external cladding. The new system was configured to obscure any view of the adjacent school, which has been locked onto the programming of the unit.

We have recently taken over the maintenance for a new JLL site; 22 Long Acre. Working with Definitive Security Solutions, we have installed a new CCTV NVR that will enable remote monitoring of the CCTV systems and will soon be expanding this monitoring service to include the alarms for the building. We are excited to be involved with the new JLL project at 22 Long Acre in which we will be looking to install control equipment for all security services within the building.

11 WESTEND HOUSE

We have recently upgraded the access control at 11 Westend house and the CCTV at 225 Oxford Street, which is part of the Savills Portfolio. Partnering with Definitive Security Solutions, we successfully upgraded the obsolete access control system throughout the building. This included installing new cabling and implementing a Paxton access control system. The new system is seamlessly integrated with the building next door, streamlining operations for on-site security personnel.

ACCESS CONTROL UPGRADE (11 WESTEND HOUSE)

225 OXFORD STREET

We collaborated with Definitive Security Solutions to upgrade the existing CCTV system at 225 Oxford Street. This project involved installing a new DVR, hard drive, monitor, and cameras. By utilising the existing cabling infrastructure, we were able to keep costs low without sacrificing quality. The on-site security team has praised the improved clarity and performance of the new system.

CCTV UPGRADE (225 OXFORD STREET)

VACANT BUILDING TEMPORARY

MONITORED SECURITY SYSTEMS

CIS Innovative Solutions along with our partners Envision Intelligent Solutions have installed temporary security systems across the Shaftsbury Instruction, to support vacant property management.

Wireless security systems are the perfect security solution for continuous surveillance of your property, business, or assets. They can be installed in a matter of minutes and demand no existing infrastructure, unlike hard wired security systems.

The systems are then monitored by a dedicated team with Envisions Alarm receiving Centre (ARC).

SHAFTSBURY INSTRUCTION, CHINA TOWN AND SOHO

INNOVATIVE WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY

We have installed Rapid Speed Domes, Reconeyez PIR cameras, Siren/flashing beacons and keypad for arming/disarming systems across multiple buildings within the Shaftsbury instruction. All alarm activations are monitored via the CCTV network and escalated to the Security Teams at Carnaby,

INSTALLATION OF RAPID SPEED DOMES

Rapid Speed Domes wireless camera system uses passive infrared (PIR) sensors and signal analysis to track thermal signatures across the monitored area.

All monitored from the ARC as part of the service and cost of hiring the cameras. A 4G Re-deployable

CCTV Infra-Red Speed Dome design specifically to deliver live and recorded high-definition images via 4G mobile transmission. How Does It Work? This 4G IR Speed Dome Camera is designed and built for applications where you need fast deployment of CCTV.

The Rapid Speed Dome is perfect for temporary installation where you need to send live video via 4G mobile network. It is specifically designed to be mounted quickly and securely on various locations with a unique plug and play design with single power connector enabling easy installation and redeployment.

INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS

If you would like to know more you can request our Innovative Solutions Product Catalogue by contacting our Head of Innovative Solutions, Kuldeep Kainth. This document contains information on a range of recommended products that CIS supplies, installs, and maintains.

Kuldeep Kainth Head of Innovative Solutions kuldeep.kainth@cis-security.co.uk

OPENREACH FINED £1.3M FOLLOWING

DEATH OF ENGINEER

A telephone engineer drowned while trying to repair phone lines across a river. What went wrong and what lessons can you learn from this case to prevent a similar occurrence?

Swept away

A number of Openreach (O) engineers had been attempting to repair telephone lines, which ran across a river in Wales, over a period of two months. They’d been working both near and in the river. At the time of the incident, there had been flooding in the area which meant the river was much higher and faster flowing than usual.

Mr Owen, 32, entered the water and made his way to an island in the middle of the river in order to try and throw a new telephone cable across to the other side by taping it to a hammer and then throwing the hammer. Whilst attempting to cross the remaining section of the river, he slipped in and the force of the river swept him away.

The HSE on the scene

During the course of its investigation, the HSE found that there was no safe system of work in place for work on or near water, nor had any workers received training, information or instruc-tion on safe working on or near water.

In court O pleaded guilty to breaching s.2(1) Health and Safety at work etc. Act 1974 . It was fined £1.34 million and ordered to pay costs of £15,858.35.

A preventable death Working near or over water presents unique safety challenges that require specific preparations to ensure a safe working environment. Key preparations should include:

conducting a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards associated with working near water, such as drowning, slippery surfaces, strong currents or unstable ground.

Tip. Use our Risk Assessment - Work Near Water . You’ll need to adapt it to your individual circumstances but it covers the main areas of concern affecting a maintenance or construction project adjacent to water.

X Ensuring the availability and accessibility of water safety equipment, such as lifebuoys, throw ropes, rescue hooks and first aid kits

X Providing employees with adequate training on water safety, use of PPE, emergency procedures and how to respond to waterrelated incidents

X Establishing a system for monitoring weather conditions and water levels

X Ensuring proper supervision is in place, especially for employees who are not experi-enced or familiar with working near water

X Implementing communication protocols, such as check-in procedures, buddy systems, etc. installing guardrails, barriers, or edge protection systems to prevent falls into bodies of water.

X Providing appropriate PPE, such as life jackets, harnesses with lifelines, non-slip foot-wear, etc. Regularly supervising to ensure it’s being worn

Tip. Make sure your colleagues are aware of the increased dangers and use our Safety

Briefing - Working In, Near or Over Water to remind them of everything you have put in place to protect their safety.

X Developing and communicating clear emergency response procedures in case of acci-dents and ensuring all employees are trained in them

Contact stuart.bateman@cis-security.co.uk or emmanuel.nnaji@cis-security.co.uk for R/A work near water & Working near or over water guidance.

EALING BROADWAY ESG INITIATIVE

CIS Security Limited participated in a charity pop-up to help the local community at Ealing Broadway with British Land.

Ealing Broadway operates a charity pop-up shop within its centre, offering preloved branded and non-branded school uniforms, sportswear, footwear and school bags. Visitors can come to the shop and choose up to four items to help prepare their children for going back to school.

After their previous involvement in April, Key Account Manager, Wayne Nye-Jones and Security Manager, Mark Adedeji were delighted to be offered a chance to help organise donations and support customers with their selections.

Wayne said,

“It’s a fantastic initiative, and you can see it’s been so well received by the community in Ealing. Many have commented on what a brilliant idea this is. We are proud to be able to work with the team that operates the shop and will continue to do so in the future.”

Thank you, and well done to everyone who made this day successful.

LONDON’S AIR AMBULANCE CHARITY COLLECTION

Earlier this month, the CIS and the team at 6 St James raised money for our chosen charity partner, as part of our award-winning ESG initiatives.

CIS Account Manager, John Sephton FSyI stated,

“It is always good to do our bit for the London Air Ambulance Service as they provide a vital service to those in need. This charity has been the charity of choice for CIS for many years, and our customer at 6 St James welcomed them to the building to help this vital work continue.”

London’s Air Ambulance plays a crucial role in delivering advanced trauma care to critically injured patients in London, using helicopters during the day and rapid response cars at night to bring essential medical care directly patients.

We are dedicated to continuing our support for their exceptional work!

A huge thank you to Sandra Miller for facilitating this day and contributing to making this a successful event.

If you would like to donate to London’s Air Ambulance, please follow this link https://lnkd.in/eqC7YnWj

CIS ANNUAL ESG REPORT

In October 2023 we published our annual ESG report which outlines where we are today in relation to ESG compared to previous years. We have continued to strengthen our sustainability approach, and the years to come will see our determination and clear actions of achieving our net-zero pledge.

WELLBEING AND BENEFITS

CIS offers amazing colleague benefits, available to all colleagues. From taxfree bike purchases to huge restaurant & takeaway discounts with TasteCard, dental & optical plans with HSF and high street savings that make a difference to every pocket! CIS has it all!

Evi Garoufi-London

Head of Payroll & Benefits

Our extensive colleague benefits collection can be found under The Hub, and it is best to visit using a desktop version of a PC rather than a phone as this way it is easier to navigate through the different benefits.

CIS’ Payroll and Benefits Team’s hard work and dedication have been recognised by ‘The Reward’ in not one but three of their prestigious award categories:

X Service Team Provider Award

X In-house Team Award

X Customer Service Award

We are all so proud of this remarkable achievement, which could not have happened without Evi Garoufi-London, Casey Beattie, Aleksandra Lynes, Cheryl Cosgrove, Simeon Obigbesan, and Abdalla Mohamood’s laser focus on accuracy, reliability, and teamwork.

We wish them and all the other finalists the very best of luck at the awards ceremony on September 10, 2024.

RETIRMENT BONUS

Celebrating our retirees with a special bonus.

Retirement Bonus is a reward given to colleagues upon their retirement as gesture of appreciation of their years of service. This bonus various depending on years of service. Also, a signed retirement card and gift signed by our managing director Neill Catton.

Whether you are approaching retirement or planning to, be assured we will be encouraging and supporting you every step of the way.

COFFEE CLUB

OUR COFFEE CLUB BENEFIT

We are proud to mention we have had had successful coffee club campaign last month. A benefit designed to refresh your day with a drink of your choice. As part of colleague benefits collection, all colleagues will receive access to premium discounts to 1000s coffee shops nationwide. Whether you choose espresso or refreshing iced latte. The choice is yours. This benefit is designed to showcase appreciation of the hard work within the business.

Here’s what you get with Coffee Club.

Keep an eye out on the Coffee Club campaign which will be communicated via communication channels.

CHANCE TO WIN A HAVEN

It is time to get on your bikes this summer and experience the benefits of the Cycle2Work scheme.

To celebrate a summer of cycling, if you join the scheme and a letter of collection comes between the 1st August - 30th September 2024, you will be in with a chance of winning a holiday for a family of up to 5 to a Haven Holiday Park of your choosing*.

To celebrate a Summer of cycling, when you join Cycle2Work before 30th September 2024, you will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win a Holiday!

Through Cycle2Work, you can save up to 47% on a new bike and accessories! These huge savings come from participating in a government initiative, meaning you do not have to pay Tax or National Insurance on these products.

Best of all, Cycle2Work gives you access to 98% of all bikes available in the UK via Halfords, Tredz.co.uk and independent retailers. If you would like to find out more, please visit the Cycle2Work website.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Cycle2Work on 0345 504 6444. You can also enquiry for more information via the contact us form.

MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING

All over the UK and the world, there have been tragic events that have affected many. We must protect our mental health and take the correct actions to ensure our wellbeing. If you, or someone you know, is suffering please see the below organisations that can make a difference and help.