Bouncers are hired to protect facilities such as pubs, casinos, and nightclubs by enforcing laws that keep the peace and control. They are in charge of refusing access to adolescents not of legal drinking age and removing those who are extremely drunk or causing trouble from the premises. There are a few requirements to become a bouncer in the UK, as most professions require specific qualifications, such as an SIA licence, prior experience and good verbal communication abilities. To defend yourself, it’s essential to be physically fit and have effective self-defence skills in case you experience aggressive customers on the job.
SIA Door Supervisor Licence
You should have your SIA Door Supervisor Licence to work as a door supervisor. It allows you to work in places where alcohol is sold, such as pubs and nightclubs. Further, it provides training in first aid and conflict resolution for dealing with drunk individuals. As a door supervisor, it is your responsibility to check on how inebriated customers are because this influences how safe the venue is.
Also Read: How to Get an SIA Licence in 2023?
Legal Prerequisites
To obtain an SIA licence, you must:
- be above 18 years
- have evidence that you are legally permitted to work in the UK
- pass a criminal record check;
- a mental health evaluation
- completed your SIA training course
Start a successful career as a Bouncer by following these steps:
Step 1: Book your door supervisor training course.
Step 2: Pass the course comprising multiple choice exams and a physical assessment.
Step 3: Apply for your SIA door supervisor licence through the post office after passing the course.
Step 4: Once you get your licence, you can start applying for bouncer jobs in your area.
Some “Nice To Have” Physical Training
Bouncers should ideally be at least six feet tall and muscular, as a strong appearance goes a long way in this job. However, you should concentrate on increasing your strength.
- Take mixed martial arts classes, such as Krav Maga or BJJ. Knowing how to fight is essential because you may need to defend yourself against an angry or drunk individual.
- You will also be qualified if you have police or military experience because you were trained to fight and defend yourself. Many bouncers are off-duty police officers or veterans.
Furthermore, learn a practical martial art like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Being a bouncer requires knowing how to break up a fight without damaging the other person. Bouncers must be able to handle altercations deliberately and make the bar owner happy and the customers comfortable.
Ways to Become a Bouncer:
- Approach the club owner/manager and ask for a job
- The majority of bouncers are employed through referrals. You have an edge if your age is above 25 and have a broader build
- Contact a bouncer and ask who the head of security is. Inquire with this individual about a possible job position.
- Making friends with other bouncers and bartenders is the best method to get in as a bouncer, but not while they are working.
Also Read: How to Become an Sia Licensed Security Guard in the UK?
Working Conditions
Note that door supervisor duty is physically demanding. Prepare to be constantly on your feet. You should also be aware that there will be shifts where you will be open to cold or rainy weather for a long time.
You usually get to wear your clothes to work, but at some places, you may be required to wear a suit and tie. You must keep your SIA badge visible at all times.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Bouncer:
- Monitoring the eligibility of individuals entering the club
- Conduct body searches and employ metal detectors to detect hidden weapons.
- Bouncers in the UK monitor their surroundings, identifying early signs of conflict and resolving situations before anyone gets harmed.
- Assist people to leave the club safely after they’ve been drinking. If someone has partied a little too hard during the event and is becoming a danger to themselves and others, you may need to politely ask them to leave.
- Bouncers are assigned to the front door and are responsible for that all patrons have correct IDs.
Door Supervisors are also in charge of:
- Keeping the crowd under control
- Providing safety and security
- Giving assistance and client service
- Holding crime and misbehaviour at check
Other Duties May Involve:
- Ticket collection
- Keeping track of guest lists and VIPs
- Arresting and dragging people from the venue
- Handling emergencies such as bomb threats, violent situations, or medical complications
- Reporting on events that occur within or outside of the club
- To warn and evict the guilty in a tactful manner
- To notify the police when and where required
Benefits of the job:
Working as a door person has various advantages, including:
- increasing your wages
- becoming more energetic
- challenging yourself
- interacting with new individuals
- operating as part of a team
- flexibility
- the chance to take on a second job
Get an SIA Door Supervisor Training Course
A seven-day SIA door supervisor course is necessary for individuals who aim to work as bouncers in the UK. You can get a door supervisor training course from Agile Security Training as we are an SIA-recognised training centre. Our door supervisor course costs £320 only!
Once you complete the training, you’re eligible for the SIA licence. After you receive your licence, you can apply for bouncer jobs in the UK.
Cost of SIA Door Supervisor Licence?
The cost of an SIA door supervisor licence is £190. You get a 50% discount if you apply for multiple licences.
- The cost of an SIA licence is £190
- Every other licence will cost you £90
The Security Industry Authority delivers your 3-year badge within 25 days. Although, it may take up to 6 weeks in some cases.
