The Unsung Heroes in Hi-Vis: Fun Facts About Hired Security in the UK

When you attend a concert, festival, football match, or high-profile gala in the UK, you’re likely to pass by someone in a high-visibility jacket standing with their arms crossed and eyes scanning the crowd. While they may blend into the background for most attendees, event security personnel are essential to keeping everything running smoothly—and they have some truly fascinating stories to tell. Beyond the serious business of safety and order, there’s a lighter side to the life of security staff, especially in Britain.

Here’s a look at some fun, strange, and surprising facts about hired security at UK events.

1. They’re Everywhere—Even if You Don’t See Them
At major events like Glastonbury Festival, Notting Hill Carnival, or a Wembley match, you’ll spot plenty of uniformed security personnel. However, many are hidden in plain sight. Some security operatives are dressed as ordinary punters, trained to spot suspicious behaviour, potential disturbances, or underage drinking—all without blowing their cover. These covert roles are often assigned to former police or military personnel with a keen eye for detail.

The next time you think you’ve snuck a bottle past security, don’t be too sure—they’ve probably clocked it before you even stepped through the gate.

2. They Learn the Venue Like a London Cab Driver Learns “The Knowledge”
Before an event begins, security teams are required to familiarise themselves with the venue. This includes knowing every exit, potential hazard, blind spot, and emergency protocol—much like how a London black cab driver memorises the city’s 25,000 streets.

At larger venues like the O2 Arena or Old Trafford, this kind of prep is critical. Some companies even run simulated drills involving actors pretending to faint, start fights, or sneak in restricted areas—all to test the security team’s readiness.

3. Crowd Psychology Is Part of the Job
Many UK security professionals receive basic training in psychology and human behaviour. Understanding how crowds respond to music, announcements, or even changes in weather can be key to preventing dangerous situations. For example, they know that the last 10 minutes of a concert can be the most intense, as everyone rushes to exit—especially if the headliner didn’t play a fan-favourite song.

In high-tension scenarios, such as rival football matches, stewards are trained to identify fans trying to provoke confrontations, often diffusing the situation with calm conversation and strategic movement.

4. Some Have Royal Connections
Event security in the UK isn’t limited to nightclubs and stadiums. Many guards are hired for royal events, including garden parties at Buckingham Palace, state funerals, and even private weddings. These operatives go through extensive vetting by the Home Office and work closely with Metropolitan Police or Royal Protection Officers.

In fact, some of the same individuals who guard pop stars at music festivals may be seen a few months later ensuring the safety of VIPs at a royal charity ball.

5. They’ve Seen the Weirdest Things
From fans climbing lighting rigs at Reading Festival to people attempting to smuggle pets, fireworks, or even garden gnomes into venues, UK security teams have encountered it all. One famous incident involved a man trying to gain access to a backstage area by dressing as a catering assistant—complete with a fake name badge and clipboard. He was so convincing that security let him through… until he tried to take a selfie with Ed Sheeran.

Another time, a woman attempted to sneak into a football match disguised as a child in a pram. Needless to say, the game was up when security asked for the baby’s ticket.

6. Security Dogs Are Smarter Than You Think
Security dogs aren’t just there for show—they’re highly trained specialists. In the UK, many dogs are dual-trained to detect drugs and explosives, as well as to assist with crowd control. Their handlers often joke that the dogs have better instincts than people, and in many cases, it’s true.

One handler recounted how their spaniel sniffed out a packet of ecstasy hidden in a pot of hummus at a music festival. Another time, a dog alerted security to a suspicious package that turned out to be nothing more than a forgotten vegan lunchbox—but better safe than sorry.

7. They Rarely Get to Enjoy the Show
You might think working security at a music festival is a great way to hear your favourite band for free. Think again. While some stewards may get a decent view, the majority of security staff are so focused on crowd management, emergency protocols, and safety checks that they miss most of the performance.

At Glastonbury, for instance, some security teams work in rotating shifts that cover 12 hours straight, with minimal breaks and almost no opportunity to relax. So, if you ever feel like complaining about the walk back to your tent—remember, they’re on their feet the entire weekend.

8. They’re Trained in First Aid—and Sometimes More
It’s common for UK security staff to be first-aid trained, especially at large or high-risk events. They’re often the first responders to injuries, dehydration, and panic attacks. In some cases, they’ve delivered babies (yes, really) or helped save lives with defibrillators.

One steward at a Leeds festival became an unexpected hero after performing CPR on an unconscious attendee until paramedics arrived. The person survived, and the steward received a commendation and a round of applause from festival-goers the next day.

9. The SIA Badge Is a Big Deal
In the UK, any person working in private security must hold an SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence. To get one, you must pass background checks, complete accredited training, and pay for your own licence. For many, it’s a point of pride—proof that they’re not just someone in a jacket, but a trained professional with legal authority.

Some event-goers don’t realise that refusing instructions from SIA-licensed security can lead to ejection from the venue or even arrest.

10. They’re Often the Only Sober People Around
Perhaps the most underappreciated fact of all—security guards are stone-cold sober while surrounded by thousands of intoxicated people. They’re the designated adults in a sea of mayhem, managing everything from minor disputes to full-blown emergencies, all while maintaining a professional and approachable demeanour.

Next time you see a security guard, maybe give them a nod of thanks. They’ve probably just helped someone find their friends, prevented a fight, or politely declined a bribe involving backstage passes and a half-eaten pasty.

The Backbone Behind Every Great Event
Security staff at UK events may not be the headliners, but they’re every bit as crucial as the performers, players, or speakers. From managing enormous crowds to handling surprisingly weird situations, these professionals bring order to chaos with a blend of authority, tact, and often a good sense of humour.

So the next time you’re dancing in a field, cheering at a match, or raising a glass at a gala, spare a thought for the people quietly keeping everything safe—and sometimes, doing it with a smile.