Sodexo crowned ACS Champion of the Year at Security Excellence Awards

The ACS (Approved Contractor Scheme) is governed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and is designed to raise security standards for a safer environment whilst promoting good practice by security professionals. The ACS Champion of the Year award is open to all approved contractors and seeks to identify those that have taken exceptional steps to further the spirit of the scheme. Sodexo in the UK first achieved the approved contractor status in May 2008 and is currently approved by the SIA for security guarding and CCTV. The judges were impressed with the extent that Sodexo promoted and progressed the spirit of the ACS, including its staff welfare, development of working conditions, the reward and recognition programme, the use of newsletters, focus groups and enhanced conflict training. Simon Pears, head of security for Sodexo, said: "I am absolutely delighted with our win, which has been possible through the collective efforts, dedication and commitment from the Centre of Excellence team at Sodexo. "We would like to thank the SIA for their effective partnership working with us and we hope to build on this further. We will continue to remain committed towards raising the standards of security everywhere we operate." ACS assistant director and an award judge, Andrew Shephard, added: "Sodexo's active engagement with the SIA, its contribution to the development of the ACS, along with putting local crime prevention and community safety at the top of their agenda demonstrated to the judges that the company are raising their operational standards and are promoting good practice within the industry."