Former Queen's Police Officer Leads New Close Protection Course

Assist Security Group (ASG), a leading UK security solutions provider, has announced the launch of its new Close Protection (CP) course, led by Paul Ephgrave MVO, former Queen's Police Officer. This SIA-qualified programme offers new training across executive, ultra-high net worth, media, and hostile environment protection.

The course recently started on 28 October 2024 and provides security professionals with comprehensive, scenario-based training in key London venues. It aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to operate at the highest levels of close protection. The course is fully residential, with food and accommodation included in the cost. ELCAS and financing options are available, making this elite training accessible to a wider range of candidates.

Paul Ephgrave brings 32 years of Metropolitan Police Service experience to his role as course leader. For 17 years, he held the UK's highest close protection position as "Queen's Police Officer", leading the team responsible for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's security.

Troy Hewitt, CEO of ASG, said: "We're delighted to offer this exceptional training opportunity under Paul Ephgrave's leadership. His unrivalled experience in royal protection, combined with ASG's expertise in security solutions, creates a programme that sets new standards in close protection training. This course will equip security professionals with the skills needed to excel in today's complex security landscape."

The SIA-qualified programme is available in two formats: a 22-day course including First Response Emergency Care (FREC) 3 certification and an 18-day course without FREC 3. Both lead to a Level 3 SIA Close Protection Qualification.

Training will cover a wide range of modules totalling 194 hours, including principles of close protection, terror threat awareness, physical intervention skills, conflict management, and practical CP operations. The course emphasises real-world application, with training delivered in key London venues to familiarise participants with potential future work environments.

Ephgrave's credentials include serving as Director of the National Protection Officers training course and his current role as Director of Security at Claridge's Hotel. His transition from public to private sector security brings a unique perspective to the training.

"Paul's experience bridges the gap between elite-level protection and commercial security needs," Hewitt added. "This course will provide participants with insights and skills that are directly applicable to the diverse challenges faced in modern close protection scenarios."

Key Features

The course's four-pillar approach covers executive protection, ultra-high net-worth individuals, media and talent, and hostile environments. This comprehensive structure ensures participants are prepared for a wide range of protection scenarios.

Key features of the course include:

- Immersive, scenario-based training in actual London venues

- Instruction by industry leaders with extensive operational experience

- Opportunity to meet key personalities from the client side of close protection

- Food and accommodation included at a purpose-built centre of excellence

- Post-course interviews with ASG's Risk Management team

The course content covers essential skills such as threat and risk assessment, search procedures, venue security, route planning, surveillance and counter-surveillance, driver training, and emergency first aid. Legal aspects of close protection and conflict management are also key components of the curriculum. The course emphasises real-world application, with immersive scenario training delivered in central London. Participants will benefit from ASG's partnerships with key venues, providing a unique opportunity to train close to where they may work in the future.

Ephgrave's decorated career includes being personally ordained by Queen Elizabeth II as a Member of the Victorian Order (MVO), a dynastic order of knighthood recognising distinguished personal service to the monarch.

ASG's launch of this course comes at a time when demand for highly skilled close protection operatives is on the rise. The company's 30 years of experience in securing a wide range of commercial clients across multiple industries positions it uniquely to offer this specialised training.

Upcoming course dates are:

- 28 October – 18 November 2024

- 25 November – 16 December 2024

- 6 January – 27 January 2025

This new offering aligns with ASG's commitment to providing comprehensive security solutions and raising industry standards. The course is designed to appeal to individual security professionals looking to enhance their skills, as well as companies seeking to elevate their security teams' capabilities.

For more information about the Close Protection course or to reserve a space, contact ASG at:

Email: barry.chapman@assistservicesgroup.co.uk

Phone: +44 20 8543 6670

Website: www.assistsecurity.co.uk

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Editors notes

GENERAL SERVICES PROFILE

Assist Security Group (ASG) is a leading provider of bespoke security solutions across a range of industries including luxury hotels and retail, estate management and corporate offices, tourist entertainment and event management, hospital facilities, and security training. With over 30 years of experience delivering protection and support, ASG takes a consultative approach to understand each client's unique needs and situational risks.

ASG's mission is to provide best-in-class, tailored services led by experts in each division. Aligned with its 6-Point Framework of Protection, Prevention, Presentation, Planning, People and Partnership, ASG develops strategies that protect clients' people and assets, striving to meet and exceed expectations.

Whether providing on-site security personnel, close protection services, corporate intelligence or CCTV monitoring, ASG brings together the right people and leading technologies. The focus is on building trusted partnerships, mitigating risks, and enabling clients to operate securely and successfully.

From boutique retail stores to large-scale events, hospitals to luxury hotels, ASG has become a preferred security partner by blending operational excellence with a personable, collaborative approach. With expertise across specialised divisions, ASG’s solutions are carefully designed to match each client's brand, culture and objectives.