Private security
SIA ACS consultants.Practical support for approved contractor status.
Practical support for security businesses preparing for SIA Approved Contractor Scheme assessment and maintaining approval.
Free, no-obligation conversation.
Client feedback on ACS support
Clear guidance for assessment preparation.
Adriana Diaconu describes Debbie’s practical guidance and support through ACS assessment preparation, helping the team approach the process with confidence.
Read Adriana’s original review ↗Client review published on Trustpilot, 18 December 2025. ACS is an SIA approval scheme, separate from ISO certification.
The essentials
What is SIA ACS?
The SIA Approved Contractor Scheme is a voluntary quality assurance scheme for private security businesses. Approval relates to the organisation and the relevant security activities.
UK private security contractors considering ACS approval or seeking support with maintaining their existing approval.
Official standard or scheme guidance ↗
Meet the consultants supporting UK businesses.
Support is scoped to the security activities your business provides. ACS approval applies to specified activities.
ACS readiness
Review eligibility, approval scope and self-assessment.
Keyholding records
Connect handovers, key control and response procedures.
Site security
Review assignment instructions and operational evidence.
CCTV operations
Organise control-room procedures and incident records.
Practical support, in your world
From your starting point to assessment.
Review your starting point
Discuss your security activities, eligibility and current arrangements.
Build the evidence
Work through self-assessment, management processes and operational records.
Prepare for assessment
Address gaps and prepare your team. The SIA makes the approval decision.
Keep moving forward
Support throughout your SIA ACS journey.
Useful answers
SIA ACS. Your questions answered.
Is SIA ACS the same as an individual SIA licence?
No. ACS is a voluntary scheme for businesses. Individual licensing and the business’s eligibility for approval are separate matters. Check the SIA’s current guidance for your activities.
Who decides whether a business is approved?
The SIA makes the approval decision, with assessment undertaken through the scheme’s arrangements. We provide consultancy support and do not award approval.
Where can we check current eligibility and fees?
Use the SIA’s official application guidance for current eligibility, fees and assessment instructions. Consultancy and assessment charges should be budgeted for separately.
Can you support an already approved contractor?
Yes. We can discuss system reviews, evidence preparation and ongoing support for future assessments and improvement work.
What affects the cost of SIA ACS support?
Your activities, sites, existing system and preparation needs determine the consultancy scope. We provide a tailored quote. Budget separately for independent assessment and any scheme fees.
How long does preparation for SIA ACS take?
Timing depends on your starting point, the work required, availability of evidence and assessment dates. A gap analysis helps establish a realistic plan.
Your next step
Let’s discuss your SIA ACS requirements.
Share your business activities, current system and any customer or assessment deadline.
Talk it through: 0843 289 9434
Free, no-obligation enquiry. Consultancy is scoped around your business.