"Many of you are understandably nervous of challenging suspicious activity and using the powers you hold without fear of prosecution. My mission for the SIF is to change the culture and practice of the UK security industry."

- Daniel Garnham, General Secretary -

About Our Organisation

  • Daniel Garnham

    General Secretary of the SIF and Co-Founder of the Protect Card

    Hello and thank you for your interest in joining the Security Industry Federation, the trade union for the UK private security industry.

    Firstly, let me introduce myself. I am Daniel Garnham and I created the SIF after serving the last 20 years in the public sector doing what you do, protecting the public. I am also an SIA trainer which is where I had the idea for the SIF. Many of you are understandably nervous of challenging suspicious activity and using the powers you hold without fear of prosecution.

    I recognise frontline private security workers as skilled key workers having undergone rigorous SIA training and passed exams. You put yourself in harm’s way to protect the public. You are often the first responders and offer vital evidence to the police and partner organisations. It is only right your pay and working conditions reflect this. It is also only right you have a trade union, a voice, somebody to turn to.

    Together, let’s help shape the future of the security industry.

    My mission for the SIF is to change the culture and practice of the UK security industry and to provide members with excellent benefits to reward their dedication to keeping the UK safe.

    Daniel Garnham
  • Jo Watling

    Deputy General Secretary

    In her role as Senior National Officer, Jo works tirelessly to achieve fair results for our members and push the Union forwards.

    ​Incorporating decades of experience in people management into her advocacy work, Jo demonstrates a commitment to not only understanding the needs of workers but also actively collaborating with employers to create solutions that contribute to a more equitable and just working environment.

    Jo's involvement in local politics as an elected local parish councillor showcases her dedication to making a positive impact at the grassroots level. By directly addressing the concerns of her community, she actively contributes to positive changes in the lives of those she represents. ​

    Jo has always campaigned for causes she feels strongly about, specifically the importance of fair treatment and equality. In an industry where many have become apathetic, Jo stands out as a force to be reckoned with. Her unwavering commitment to justice and sympathetic ear, along with her proactive approach to serving members and fostering positive change is second to none. Her passion and expertise make her an invaluable asset in SIF’s pursuit of positive change within the industry.

    Jo Watling
  • Leigh Turner

    Board Member

    Leigh is a seasoned leader in the security industry and the founder of Elite Tactical Force Limited and the United Kingdom Security Industry Compliance Association (UKSICA). With a mission-focused mindset, Leigh has devoted his career to elevating standards, promoting compliance, and championing professionalism across the private security sector.

    Leigh plays a strategic role in advocating for industry reform, worker representation, and policy development. His involvement in the SIF reinforces his commitment to strengthening the voice and rights of security professionals nationwide.

    Ruth Ripley
  • Karen Whybro

    Board Member

    Karen is a women's safety consultant who ensures all public spaces, workplaces and online platforms are safe for women.

    Karen’s night time charter is changing attitudes and behaviours to reduce violence against women and girls, including the training of security workers to identify and challenge VAWG.

    Ruth Ripley
  • Orlando Mardner

    Board Member

    Orlando is a Certified Security Manager with over 20 years of experience in leading security operations across retail, recreation, hospitality, and hotel sectors, often in high-risk environments and is skilled in identifying and mitigating risks from criminality, activism, and terrorism.

    Orlando is a qualified trainer and designs and delivers accredited security courses and his love for the profession is matched by his determination to elevate the status of security worldwide.

    His deep connections, extensive expertise, and broad experience have positioned him as a key figure in the industry, both in the UK and internationally.

    Ruth Ripley
  • Somjaree Hanson

    Treasurer

    Somjaree is a serial learner with a degree in finance and is a qualified teacher and IQA, specialising in anatomy and therapeutic practice. Somjaree, also known as Cat, ensures the SIF’s finances are used appropriately and accounted for
     
    accurately as well as preparing our union budgets. Somjaree has supported the SIF Executive Board in campaigns and audit preparation and is a vital part of the unions success.
     

    Ruth Ripley
  • Richard Tydeman

    Chief Technical Officer/Board Member

    Richard is an ex Door Supervisor and an ambassador for safety in the night time economy.

    Now, Richard uses his years of experience and expertise in I.T to provide the SIF with secure and compliant systems to allow us to manage our members cases and keep their data secure. Richard is also the co-founder of the Protect Card. .

    Lauren Todd

Member Testimonials

Reviews

    "I cannot describe how SIF have helped me during a tough time with my company. They managed my meetings with HR and managers professionally and knowledgeably. They were also available to attend the meeting with me on short notice and always responded to my messages for any recommendations I needed."

    "I recently had a TUPE case and was struggling to get the holiday pay I was owed. The union SIF stepped in and provided amazing support throughout the process. Thanks to their dedication and expertise, I received the holiday pay I was due. I am incredibly grateful for their help and highly recommend SIF to anyone in need of union assistance."

    "Wonderful union. The president Daniel represented me recently and I was happy with the outcome. Join the SIF, the security union fighting for the welfare of security staff."

What SIF offer

Hundreds of members across the UK benefit from our expert legal advice, support and continued protection every day.

Services

  • Expert Legal Advice

    Provided by our dedicated support team and partners.

  • Wellbeing Support & Counselling

    Professional advice for internal discipline issues

  • Employment Rights Advice

    Dedicated support regardinging all workplace matters.

  • 24/7 Phone Support

    Expert advice via telephone support and counselling.