A contract to provide manned guarding services for University College London’s (UCL) estate has gone to Axis Security. Some 200 security officers will protect the main campus in Bloomsbury, plus buildings and departments across central London. Staff will be transferred via TUPE. The contract covers traditional security functions, including patrolling, emergency response, key holding, gate house and control room duties, and front-of-house reception duties.
Mark West, Security Manager at UCL Estates, says customer service is an important part of the 24/7 provision. He says: “It’s important to provide a safe, secure and welcoming environment for students, staff and visitors, especially in buildings such as the library that are open 24/7,” he says. “We have a fantastic team, many of whom have been with the University for more than ten years. Both the operations response team and officers on reception are committed to providing excellent customer service in their safeguarding roles.”
Axis Security was chosen partly on the basis of its training, staff welfare and technology. Mark West adds: “We saw this tender process as an opportunity to look for a fresh approach. It was clear that Axis will prioritise officers’ training, development and welfare,” Mark adds. “I believe if you look after staff, they will in turn protect the people in their care better. Overall, Axis has proven its understanding of the security challenges we face here at UCL and how to best support the security staff, while also demonstrating its ability to grow as we do. Axis has also surpassed our expectations with its innovative ideas which will be rolled out over the coming months.”
David Mundell, pictured, Managing Director of Axis Security Services says: “Axis strives to provide a highly professional, best-in-class service to its clients and believe that our vision is closely aligned with that of UCL. We are excited about the potential for this contract to develop over the coming years.”
