Safeguarding Young People in a Security Role
Security officers have a vital responsibility in ensuring the safety and well-being of young people in nightlife and public settings. Minors (those under 18) are particularly vulnerable to exploitation, harassment, intoxication, and other risks in these environments. Understanding their vulnerabilities, identifying warning signs, and taking appropriate safeguarding actions can prevent harm and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.
1. Understanding the Risks for Minors in Nightlife and Public Areas
Young people can find themselves in unsafe situations for various reasons. Security personnel should be aware of the unique risks minors face in public spaces and nightlife settings.
Key Risks Include:
✔ Alcohol and Drug Exposure – Minors may attempt to purchase alcohol, be pressured into drinking, or unknowingly consume spiked drinks.
✔ Harassment and Unwanted Attention – Young people, especially females, are often targeted by older individuals or groups.
✔ Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) – Criminals may try to befriend, manipulate, or coerce young people into exploitative situations.
✔ Physical Harm – Overcrowding, aggressive behavior, and violence in nightlife settings can put minors at risk.
✔ Becoming Lost or Stranded – A young person might lose their friends, phone, or money and struggle to find their way home safely.
✔ Mental and Emotional Distress – Minors experiencing anxiety, intoxication, or being separated from their group can become distressed and vulnerable.
2. Identifying Vulnerable Young People
Security officers should be able to recognize young people who are at risk or in need of assistance.
Indicators of Vulnerability:
✔ Appearing lost, confused, or anxious.
✔ Being separated from their friends or unable to find their way home.
✔ Appearing intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
✔ Receiving unwanted attention or being followed by an adult.
✔ Wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather.
✔ Seeming reluctant or afraid to speak freely.
✔ Showing signs of distress, such as crying or shaking.
Indicators of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE):
- A young person being accompanied by much older individuals.
- Arriving or leaving with different adults multiple times.
- Displaying fear, nervousness, or unusual behavior around a specific individual.
- Accepting drinks, gifts, or excessive attention from adults.
- Being inappropriately dressed or engaging in overly sexualized behavior for their age.
3. Best Practices for Security Officers in Safeguarding Young People
A. Controlling Access to Age-Restricted Areas
- Ensure minors do not enter bars, clubs, or venues where alcohol is served unless permitted under local regulations.
- Check IDs carefully and verify authenticity to prevent underage individuals from gaining entry.
- Monitor entry points for attempts to sneak in or use fake identification.
B. Monitoring for Signs of Vulnerability
- Conduct regular patrols around the venue, focusing on restrooms, quiet areas, and exits.
- Look out for isolated minors or those engaged in conversations with older, unknown individuals.
- Pay attention to any young person showing distress or discomfort in social interactions.
C. Assisting Young People in Distress
- If a minor appears lost or vulnerable, approach them calmly and offer assistance.
- Ask non-threatening, open-ended questions, such as:
- “Are you okay?”
- “Do you need help finding your friends or getting home?”
- “Is there someone I can call for you?”
- If they are intoxicated, ensure they are kept in a safe location and not left alone.
- If they are in danger, contact their guardian, a responsible adult, or emergency services.
D. Handling Situations Involving Potential Predators
- If an adult appears to be persistently engaging with a minor against their will, intervene and assess the situation.
- If necessary, remove the individual from the premises and report any concerning behavior.
- If a young person seems afraid to leave with a particular adult, offer them a safe space and notify the appropriate authorities.
4. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities in Safeguarding Minors
A. Duty of Care for Young People
Security officers have a legal and moral duty of care to protect vulnerable individuals, including minors. This includes taking proactive steps to prevent harm and responding appropriately to concerning situations.
B. Following Safeguarding Policies and Procedures
- Always adhere to venue-specific safeguarding policies regarding minors.
- Accurately document incidents involving young people, including descriptions of individuals and actions taken.
- If necessary, report safeguarding concerns to the police, child protection agencies, or the designated safeguarding officer within your organization.
C. Handling Disclosures from Minors
If a young person confides in you about being harmed or feeling unsafe:
✔ Listen carefully and remain calm.
✔ Do not promise confidentiality—explain that you must report serious concerns to the proper authorities.
✔ Reassure them that they are not in trouble and that they are being helped.
✔ Follow safeguarding protocols and report the disclosure immediately.
5. Collaborating with Support Services and Initiatives
Security officers should be aware of external support services that can assist young people in unsafe situations.
Key Initiatives:
✔ ‘Ask for Angela’ – A widely used safety initiative allowing individuals to discreetly ask venue staff for help if they feel unsafe.
✔ Street Pastors and Welfare Officers – Community-based teams that support vulnerable individuals in nightlife settings.
✔ Local Child Protection Services – Agencies that handle safeguarding concerns related to minors.
If a young person needs assistance, direct them to these services or contact them on their behalf if necessary
