The Security Industry Authority is reducing its charges to individuals and businesses from next month as part of its commitment to driving down costs.
From 1st January 2012 Individual licences for all sectors will be reduced from £245 to £220. The reduction applies to both new applicants and those renewing existing licences. Licence holders applying for a discounted second licence after this date will pay 50% of the new reduced fee.
Annual charges to businesses for membership of the Approved Contractor Scheme will also be reduced from £17 to £15 per employee.
Current fee levels have been held since 2007 and the SIA has been able to reduce the costs further as a result of both Government austerity measures and continuing improvements to working practices. The reductions will save the industry £3m over the coming year.
SIA Chairman Ruth Henig said: “We are very aware of the challenges faced by both businesses and licensed individuals in this difficult climate.
“We have held current fee levels for four years, and I am very pleased to now announce these reductions in the licence fee and ACS charges. We are committed to driving down costs in the new regime and this is the first step in that process.”
Home Office minister Lynne Featherstone said: “The Government has set a clear challenge to all its agencies and other bodies to ensure they are proving the best possible value for money. “So I have been very impressed to hear how the SIA has been working to improve its practices and processes to ensure that they are as efficient as possible. The reduction in these fees will no doubt be welcomed by the 360 thousand people who hold a valid licence and the businesses that employ them.”
To view the minister’s video comment visit the SIA’s Facebook page: http://on.fb.me/tE81Mw