How to Hire Event Security Staff | UK Guide for Safe, Smooth Events

How to Hire Security Staff for an Event: A Complete Guide

Hiring security staff for an event can feel overwhelming if you’ve never done it before. Whether you’re planning a wedding, festival, corporate function or community event, the safety of your guests, staff, and venue should be a top priority.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to hire event security staff, what you need to consider, whether you actually need them, and the benefits of working with a reputable company like Envisage Security Staff.

Why Hire Security Staff for an Event?
Not every event will need uniformed guards or heavy presence, but security plays a broader role than many people realise. It’s not just about breaking up fights or guarding entrances. Professional security staff are trained to:

Monitor crowds and respond to incidents

Control access points and check tickets or guest lists

Provide a visible deterrent to antisocial behaviour or theft

Support emergency procedures like evacuations or first aid

Reassure guests and help create a calm, safe environment

Hiring SIA licensed security staff (Security Industry Authority) ensures that your event complies with UK legal standards for public safety.

Do You Actually Need Security Staff?
The answer depends on a few key factors:

1. Event Size
If your event involves over 50–100 people, especially in a public or semi-public setting, security should at least be considered.

2. Alcohol or Late-Night Activity
Any event serving alcohol or running late into the night increases the risk of disorderly behaviour. Security staff are crucial here.

3. Venue Type
Are you using a private home, an open-air site, or a venue with its own door staff? If the venue doesn’t supply its own security, you’ll need to arrange it independently.

4. Public Profile
High-profile events or those involving VIP guests often attract unwanted attention. A discreet but professional security presence is essential in these cases.

5. Licensing Requirements
Some local councils require proof of event security staffing as part of your licence application, especially for music festivals or large gatherings.

What to Consider Before Hiring Security Staff
Before contacting a security company, take a moment to think about the following:

✅ Type of Staff You Need
Do you need door supervisors, crowd control stewards, mobile patrols, or overnight security? Different roles require different skills—and licensing.

✅ Number of Security Personnel
A rough guide is 1 SIA security guard per 100 guests. But this will vary depending on the risk level, entry points, and layout.

✅ Accreditation & Licensing
Always check that your chosen staff are SIA licensed. This is a legal requirement in the UK for most roles involving security.

✅ Experience & Specialism
Look for staff with experience in your type of event—weddings, corporate events, festivals, etc. A good agency should match staff to the occasion.

✅ Insurance
The agency should hold public liability insurance and employer’s liability insurance. Ask for proof if it’s not volunteered.

Benefits of Using a Professional Security Agency
Hiring directly (through job boards or casual contacts) might save a few pounds, but working with an experienced agency like Envisage Security Staff has distinct advantages:

Vetted, licensed professionals ready for short notice or long-term events

National coverage—ideal if you’re hosting events in different parts of the UK

Flexible packages for events of all sizes

Customer service and a dedicated point of contact

Peace of mind—you’re working with a fully insured and established provider

What Does the Process Involve?
Make an Enquiry
Share your event details (date, venue, number of guests, nature of the event) with the agency.

Receive a Recommendation & Quote
A good provider will assess your needs and suggest a tailored staffing solution.

Confirm Staffing & Roles
Agree on duties (e.g., access control, customer service, patrols), shift timings, and uniform.

Event Day Coordination
The team arrives early, reports to your event manager, and performs duties as agreed.

Post-Event Review
Some agencies will offer a brief report or feedback session after the event.

Frequently Asked Questions: Hiring Security Staff from Envisage Security Staff

Q: Are your staff SIA licensed?
Yes, all security staff supplied by Envisage are fully SIA licensed and vetted in accordance with UK regulations.

Q: Can you provide staff anywhere in the UK?
Absolutely. Envisage Security Staff operates nationwide, from London and Manchester to rural event sites and coastal venues.

Q: Do you only offer security guards?
No—we also supply door supervisors, stewards, event marshals, traffic management staff, and VIP protection where needed.

Q: How far in advance should I book?
Ideally, a few weeks in advance—but we can often accommodate last-minute bookings, especially for short-term or urgent cover.

Q: Can I speak to someone before booking?
Yes, we provide a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your event and make sure you get the right staff for your needs.

Q: What kind of events do you cover?
We’ve supplied staff for weddings, music festivals, charity runs, corporate launches, university balls, parades, sporting events, and more.

Hiring Security Staff Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Security might not be the flashiest part of your event, but it’s certainly one of the most important. By thinking through your needs early and working with a reliable, professional agency like Envisage Security Staff, you’ll protect your event, reassure your guests, and comply with the law—all without hassle.

Whether you need one discreet door supervisor or a full team of trained stewards, we’re here to help.

👉 Ready to make an enquiry or just need advice? Contact Envisage Security Staff today for straightforward, no-pressure guidance.