Currently only 10% of security operatives are women, find out why that needs to change.
Whilst the world as a whole is slowly moving into a more equal opportunity space, the security sector is still heavily dominated by men. In fact, only 10% of all those working within the industry identify as women. Unfortunately, it is still reasonably commonly thought that security is something men are better at, despite this not being the case. In fact women are a fantastic asset to the world of security.
It is often suggested that men are better as security personnel due to their typically stronger and larger body compositions but this completely undermines the current role of security staff. Security has significantly moved on since simply being a role based around a muscular physique (though it should also be added that women can be just as strong as their male counterparts). The role of security is far more complicated and nuanced in our modern times and involves essential qualities of compassion, connection and understanding.
Outdated Beliefs
Unfortunately, there are still many old-fashioned beliefs associated with security, along with aspects of sexism and sexual harassment within the institution (at A.P. Security we are proudly fighting hard against this). As well as these obvious types of persecution, women within security also have to deal with many kinds of more subtle pigeon-holing and malicious persecutions, even from their colleagues.
It is a common theme that females within the business also have to work twice as hard as their male counterparts, to simply prove their own abilities and gain any kind of respect.
Why Women Can be an Asset to Security
Even though the numbers of women in security are still comparatively low, female security staff can add substantial worth to any organisation. The officers are not only as qualified as the men, but there are certain distinctive benefits to female security staff.
Women make up half the population and there are many female-based spaces which can really benefit from having female security. Having male security in areas like changing rooms and bathrooms can make many women feel more vulnerable. Security-based actions such as body searches or pat downs mean that having a woman security officer is actually a prerequisite. Women and children can also find female security to be much more approachable, which is especially important if there is an incident which needs dealing with.
Many Roles Available
The role of a security officer, though vital, is not the only role within security, quite the opposite. There are many and varied roles in the security world, including:
- Control room staff
- CCTV Monitoring
- Concierge
- Admin
…and many more….
At A.P. Security, our goal is to be part of positive change for the future and part of that is giving equal opportunities to anyone who would like a role with us. Not only does that mean that we happily employ women who are right for the role, but we are also a Disability Confident Employer.
Changing perceptions and moving forward to a more balanced and accepting security sector, and world as a whole, is something that we are committed to and we will persevere every day until we get there.
