A staff absence can leave a security shift uncovered with little warning. The first enquiry does not need to be long, but it should give enough information for the work to be understood and availability to be considered.
NJProtection & Security Services provides freelance shift cover across West Yorkshire. The current service information says that 48 hours’ notice is preferred, while shorter notice may be considered when availability allows. This is not a guarantee of cover, so it helps to send the essential details as early as possible.
Give the full date and working times
State the calendar date, the planned start time and the expected finish time. If arrival is needed before the shift starts for a briefing or handover, include that separately.
For overnight work, write both dates rather than relying on wording such as “Friday night”. This removes doubt about when the shift ends. Mention any planned breaks or known changes to the hours as well.
Identify the location and type of site
Provide the town or postcode and a brief description of the site, such as a venue, office, sports facility or secure area. If the site is difficult to find, say that joining instructions will be provided once the booking is confirmed.
Describe the actual duties
Use plain language to explain what the person will be expected to do. A request for “security” is too broad on its own. Say whether the work involves covering an existing guarding post, supporting a venue door, manning a defined area, holding keys or another clearly described task.
Include the expected level of public contact and any site rules that affect the role. If the duties change before the shift, send an updated brief so the assignment can be considered again.
Name the site contact
Give the name and telephone number of the person responsible for the booking. Make clear who will meet the security professional, provide the site briefing and remain contactable during the shift.
If different people handle the booking and the shift itself, list both. A clear contact route is particularly useful outside normal office hours.
Explain the handover and reporting arrangements
Say what information will be available on arrival, where the agreed meeting point is and how routine matters should be recorded. If the site uses an occurrence book, incident form or another reporting process, mention it in the brief.
Keep sensitive access information for an agreed and secure handover. The initial enquiry should describe the work without exposing details that do not need to travel by email.
Check the request before sending it
- Date, start time and finish time
- Town, postcode and type of site
- Clear description of the duties
- Booking contact and on-site contact
- Arrival, briefing and handover arrangements
- Any site rules that directly affect the assignment
You can review the current NJProtection security services before making an enquiry. To request availability, use the details in the contact section and include the checklist above. Availability remains subject to confirmation.