£1m Backing Boosts Security Firm

6th December 2005

A company which provides specialist training for the security industry as well as operational security contracts worldwide has been backed to the tune of £1million by Merseyside Special Investment Fund (MSIF).

Task International has set up a head office and training centre in Merseyside that will employ around 10 people. They have two other UK centres in London and Sussex which employ a further 12 permanent staff.

Changes in legislation, particularly post 9/11, mean that all security staff from door supervisors to close protection operatives are required by law to be registered and to have successfully completed an approved Security Industry Authority training course.

Task is an award-winning company which offers a wide range of training courses and qualifications designed to meet these latest requirements . They also offer risk assessments and provide support and consultancy services to individuals and corporations.

Awards include a National Training Award, a Security Industry National Training Award, two Commendations for Effective Training and BCCB Consultants of the Year.

Task is also one of the longest and best established military resettlement trainers in the UK and has trained in excess of 5000 Service men and women and civilian candidates from over 33 countries. The company has also recently introduced a maritime security course in order to meet new government legislation addressing safety aboard ships.

The Task team also carry out operational contracts worldwide, offering a wide range of protection services to celebrities, diplomats, high net worth individuals and corporations. They have been appointed as security advisors for a number of large events including the XVI Commonwealth Games held in Kuala Lumpur and have recently completed a close protection operation in Russia. In addition to their bases in the UK there are a number of associate offices in various countries throughout the world.

Managing Director Stephen Smith said: "The backing means we are now in a position to expand our training facilities to cover the North whereas previously we have been restricted to offering courses in the South. There is a growing demand for our services and we will also be expanding our operational activities both in the UK and abroad."

Investment Director Dan Jackson said: "Task boasts a strong management team and has an impressive reputation in a growing market. We are delighted to have attracted the business to Merseyside"

The security industry is becoming one of the largest employers in the UK. The industry is now regulated and all personnel, irrespective of experience, qualifications, ability, must become registered with the Government Security Industry Authority, (SIA). Whilst this is expected to create a 30% recruitment shortfall for employers, registration should lead to greater professionalism, higher salaries and worldwide recognition for security operatives.

A turnover of several million pounds is expected over the next three years.

Ends

For further information contact Angela White at Merseyside Special Investment Fund on 0151 236 4040

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Photo shows Task International team

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