UCL is marking International Security Officers’ Day (24 July) by celebrating the vital work of its 24/7 Security team. Staff and students are encouraged to thank a security officer, say hello, and download the SafeZone app to stay safe on campus.
24 July marks International Security Officers’ Day, a chance to recognise the tireless work of security professionals across the globe who protect people and places 24/7 - just like UCL’s own Security team.
UCL’s Security Services are a visible and vital part of campus life. Whether it’s welcoming new students, responding to emergencies, managing building access, or supporting events, the team plays a central role in keeping our community safe and supported. You’ll often see them around campus in their distinctive blue jackets.
Michael Spence, UCL’s President & Provost, met with UCL Security Officers this week after welcoming students joining one of UCL’s Summer Schools. He said:
Our Security Officers are often the first face we see when we arrive at UCL, the people we turn to when we need help and a reassuring presence across our campus. They deal with a wide variety of issues, many of which can be complex and tricky, and they do so with tremendous skill and sensitivity. Over recent years in particular, they have handled a large number of demonstrations and protests and have supported students and staff to make their voices heard safely while also expertly managing the balance between keeping the campus secure and keeping it open. I do not take for granted the multiple skills that their roles require and I am immensely grateful for everything that they do. It was a pleasure to be able to met the group and say thank you to them.
"Our Security Officers are often the first face we see when we arrive at UCL, the people we turn to when we need help and a reassuring presence across our campus. They deal with a wide variety of issues, many of which can be complex and tricky, and they do so with tremendous skill and sensitivity. Over recent years in particular, they have handled a large number of demonstrations and protests and have supported students and staff to make their voices heard safely while also expertly managing the balance between keeping the campus secure and keeping it open. I do not take for granted the multiple skills that their roles require and I am immensely grateful for everything that they do. It was a pleasure to be able to met the group and say thank you to them.Our Security Officers are often the first face we see when we arrive at UCL, the people we turn to when we need help and a reassuring presence across our campus. They deal with a wide variety of issues, many of which can be complex and tricky, and they do so with tremendous skill and sensitivity. Over recent years in particular, they have handled a large number of demonstrations and protests and have supported students and staff to make their voices heard safely while also expertly managing the balance between keeping the campus secure and keeping it open. I do not take for granted the multiple skills that their roles require and I am immensely grateful for everything that they do. It was a pleasure to be able to met the group and say thank you to them.
This year’s celebration comes as Head of Security Ollie Curran completes his term as Chair of the Association of University Chief Security Officers (AUCSO) - during his time in the role, Ollie helped shape campus security across the sector, including work around Martyn’s Law. If you’d like to learn more about Ollie’s work with AUCSO, you can read the full article here.
As we celebrate our dedicated security professionals today, take a moment to:
- to stay connected and safe on campus
- Say thank you or hello to a UCL Security officer - a small gesture goes a long way!
Happy International Security Officers’ Day to the entire UCL Security team - and thank you for keeping us safe, every day.
- University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT (0) 20 7679 2000

