Those working in the security industry may be interested to find out more about the Security Industry Authority (SIA) grant for good causes, which was set up last year to distribute money recovered through the proceeds of crime confiscation orders.

Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, the SIA is allowed to investigate the financial activity of those who have committed criminal offences and confiscate the proceeds of that crime, with the individual paying back any money made through their criminal acts.

The portion of this money that is received by the SIA can only be used to fund financial investigation capabilities or distributed to good causes.

Some of the money supports good causes that benefit the private security industry and applications for funding are considered by a grants committee at least once a year, more if the funds allow.

In 2020, the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals decided to take action and support those affected by the pandemic, with a crisis fund set up for security operatives, the police, the armed forces and emergency services.

The fund offers grants of £500 for the family of someone who has died of covid and £250 for someone hospitalised as a result of the virus. People are able to apply for themselves, while businesses are able to apply on behalf of their staff members, with funds then paid directly to the employee.

Chair of the organisation Claire Palmer said: “Research conducted early in the pandemic showed that those working in front line security had been particularly affected by COVID-19. We wanted to do something about that. Whilst the sum granted to individuals is relatively small, to those applying for the grants it is a vital form of support.”

In March 2021, £9,372.23 was diverted to the crisis fund by the grants for good causes scheme to help them support those in the industry during the pandemic.

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