The Approved Contractor Scheme is reviewed periodically to ensure that it:
- continues to serve the needs of security suppliers and buyers, and
- identifies any ways in which the Scheme may be improved.
Previously these reviews were undertaken on an annual basis, as specifically required by a Direction from the Secretary of State. This is no longer the case, and a review may be undertaken as and when it is required.
2012 Review
This year's review will focus on raising standards within a single area - namely the training, development and competency of employees.
Documents Relating to the 2012 Review:
Please send us your comments by 30 June 2012.
Previous Reviews
The 2011 review sought to gather views of the scheme.
The nature of regulation within the private security industry is anticipated to change significantly in the next few years and with this in mind, the 2011 review sought to build a picture of the current status.
Documents Relating to the 2011 Review:
The 2010 review focussed on simplification and enhancement of the ACS Self Assessment Workbook.
The review recommended some important changes to the ACS Standard and the workbook (see document below). These changes were subsequently agreed by the Home Office and were implemented in November 2011.
Documents Relating to the 2010 Review:
The 2009 review focussed on the arrangements for ACS assessments and the potential for differentiation within the scheme. As with previous reviews, fee levels remained outside the scope of the review.
Documents Relating to the 2009 Review:
The 2008 and 2007 reviews were conducted on our behalf by the Office of Government Commerce (OGC), with a focus on ACS eligibility requirements and routes to approval. Fee levels remained outside of scope. John Harkin, from the OGC, conducted the reviews and reported his findings in February 2007 and again in February 2008. The Home Office and SIA Board considered and responded to the points raised.
Documents Relating to the 2008 Review:
Documents Relating to the 2007 Review: