News

Committee Meeting 07^th February 2024

A meeting of the NASDU management committee took place at Luton Hoo and it was decided to implement two major changes within our association.

MEMBERSHIP

Firstly, all NASDU certification will soon automatically attract team membership of the association. This will mean all handlers that achieve NASDU initial or annual certification in any discipline will automatically become NASDU team members for the duration of that certification.

We have decided to do this for several reasons.

• For those who are handlers and renew their individual membership every year it will make life easier as they will automatically renew with the annual team assessment.

The price of annual team certification needs to rise, and this will give added value to that increased cost as membership will be included. It should be noted that the price of annual certification has been £20+VAT for many years now.

The price will rise to £25 +VAT and we intend that this will not increase for the foreseeable future. This will actually mean that a Handler with 1 dog certificated that is also an individual member will only pay NASDU £30 for annual certification and membership rather than a combined cost off £45 for membership and certification each year.

• At present a team certificate is like a car MOT and states that on a certain date the team was compliant with NASDU requirements and meets the standard set by BS 8517 part 1 or 2.

As such it is very difficult for us to remove that certification afterwards if an issue is raised with a particular handler. In several cases of gross misconduct or negligence in the past we have stated that a handler can not be re certified or removed their name from our website but officially their certification continues to be valid for the dates specified.

By combining the membership and certification anyone achieving certification with us is agreeing to be a member and follow our codes of practice and code of conduct. In future if a serious issue arises with a handler, we will be able to cancel their membership therefore making their certification as a team invalid.

• Lastly many handlers believe they are members if they hold a team certificate and many mean to re-apply after their initial free membership expires but life gets in the way, and they forget or put it off. This means our membership numbers vary throughout the year and when dealing with organisations such as the Government it is helpful if we can say we have a membership that is this big as it helps them understand they are dealing with a well-supported association.

Free membership will also be issued to all handlers taking initial course, but trainers must ensure that individual membership forms are completed with student registration forms from now on or we won’t be able to issue team certification.

Individual membership will still be available for the many people who still would like to support and be members of the association (at the same cost £25 inc VAT) without being an operational team and we thank them for this.

We are planning to introduce this change from the beginning of March but will publish the change date asap.

EDD22 end point assessments and annual assessment

The committee has decided to implement the changes put forward regarding the end point assessment for initial courses and annual certification for Explosive detection dog teams. This will ensure we are adopting best practice with our assessments and bringing them in line as far as possible with those carried out in the public sector.

The new assessment criteria were sent out to all our trainers for consultation just before Christmas and resent just after Christmas and we are going to make a couple of tweaks following the feedback we received.

As far as handlers are concerned there are two main changes.

• Firstly, the assessment will be over two days however many of you are already doing this as the present assessment is usually too much to complete in one day.

We understand that many of you are very busy and finding two days together may be difficult, so the assessment days must be completed within thirty days of each other. To keep costs down NASDU will accept these days being counted as monthly training days(employers/ clients may not and could ask for them to be done as extra days) .

• Secondly, the assessment must be done by an independent assessor which has always been the case for initial assessments but not annual certification. However, some trainers are already using independent assessors for annual certification as it is seen to be best practice.

Handlers will still be required to have a regular trainer as it will be the trainer who will be required to sign the team off as ready for assessment, organising the certification and ensuring the team is BS8517 compliant.

The teams should not need retraining to complete these assessments as there are no new skills involved for dogs and handlers just a more robust and organised system of assessing with most of the changes having to be implemented by the trainers.

It is important that we make these changes so we can continue to show that we use best practice when validating our teams and can adapt to meet changing sector requirements.

We are hoping to publish the final draught of the assessment before the end of March at which time we shall publish the changeover date.

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NASDU TRAIN THE TRAINERS WORKSHOP – TRACKING DOG (General Purpose)

INTRODUCTION

The Simon Mallin K9 Training & Consultancy Trainers / Handlers Workshop is aimed to assist Nasdu General Purpose level 3 and General Purpose / Tracking level 2 handlers and trainers. Gain core skills and knowledge in the training and instruction of both green dogs and novice handlers.

FOR WHOM SUITABLE

🐾Dog Handlers wishing to gain further knowledge and skills as personal development.

🐾Dog Handlers wishing to gain knowledge and skills to assist in the development of becoming a trainer / instructor.

🐾Qualified Nasdu GP 3 / Tracking trainers wishing to attend as continuous professional development.

🐾Qualified trainers in other disciplines wishing to gain underpinning or core skills knowledge.

🐾Non security industry dog handlers and trainers. Wishing to gain underpinning knowledge and understanding in Tracker Dog training  .

DURATION / TIMINGS

One Day – April 26th 2024

1000-1700

0930-1000 REGISTRATION (tea coffee biscuits)

1230- 1315 (lunch light buffet included)

1700 dispersal

WORKSHOP CONTENT/ AGENDA

:How do dogs track

:Tracking versus Trailing

: Following a scent, the scent picture

:Selecting a dog for tracking

:Equipment

:Line handling

:Suitable training environments

: The early stages of training a tracking dog

:The scent square

: Laying a track, straight single legs, right and left turns, wind direction.

:Pattern Tracks

:Creating a track plan

:Open box

:Multi Pole starts laying and working a two, three and four pole start.

:Q&A session

CERTIFICATION

•      An attendance certificate will be issued on the day

GUEST SPEAKER / INSTRUCTOR

Nasdu Trainer Nigel Edwards

Nigel is one of the earliest members and cofounders of Nasdu and was instrumental along with myself in the development of the Nasdu General Purpose level 3 and Level 2 General Purpose / Tracker Dog qualifications.

He’s a passionate and well-respected dog handler and instructor / trainer. With over 40 years dog handling experience and 25 years instructing handlers within law enforcement and the private sector. Extensive expertise in the delivery of General Purpose and Drug Detection as a police dog instructor with Surrey Police Dog School, prior to retirement from the police.

Nigel is still a very active instructor and is running continuation and refresher training on a regular basis. A Master of the Guild of Dog Trainers and a volunteer police dog instructor with Surrey and Sussex.

VENUE

Shackleford Cricket Club

Shackleford, Godalming GU8 6AX

COST

Tickets available from February 1st 2024 onwards on a first come first served basis @ £145.00

Early bird saver @ £99.00 February 1st- 29th 2024

Online ticketing will go live on February 1st 2024

NB- This is not a WORKSHOP where you require a dog to handle. However we will have very limited availability for 1 or 2 dogs to be used for demonstration purposes. Please advise on booking if you are bringing a dog or dogs. Regardless if you wish to involve them in the training. Dogs will need to remain in your vehicles unless being exercised or being used for demonstration purposes.

To book your place use this link – Tickets will be Available from February 1st, 2024, NOT BEFORE on a first come first served basis.

https://buytickets.at/simonmallink9trainingandconsultancy1/1141228

Any questions please email Simon directly on [email protected]

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QUALITY POLICY
The National Association of Security Dog Users (NASDU) was established in 1996 and is the membership organisation for those who believe in and support the aims and objectives of the Association. NASDU promotes standards, training and education within the private security sector and offers support and guidance to both members and end users. NASDU is committed to developing a robust quality management system that meets ISO9001 requirements but also reflects the small scale of the organisation and its scope. A quality update has been incorporated into the Annual General Meeting and the quarterly Management Committee meetings. A log of Non Conformities with an action plan has been created and a log of Improvements created to enable better measurement of successes. NASDU is committed to maintaining their suite of learning programmes and expanding their portfolio if suitable opportunities arise. We will continue to work with our interested parties to improve our offer and maintain our organisational knowledge and skills ensuring our trainers are confident in the quality and consistency of our learning programmes and the timely and accurate production of certificates.  NASDU also work with the Home Office on their NCTAS scheme and provide advice and guidance for organisations such as Surrey Fire and Rescue on their Fire Detection Dogs training.  We will set out our quality objectives that underpin this policy and review them on a quarterly basis.

Steve Hill

Company Secretary

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Snake Bite

We received the following email from one of our member companies and as asked have decided to pass the information on to our members.

Over the last 48hrs we have had one of our dogs bitten by a Adder resulting in death in this instance.

After speaking with our vets they have had x5 instances of snakes biting dogs in the last month.

I wasn’t aware of how common this is becoming if it is worth sharing something with the members?

please see below the email i have sent to all our handlers and the attached leaflet provided by our vet as she said not all inner-city vets will have encountered this. I have sent the following information to all our company dog handlers.

In the last 48hrs we have had a dog bitten by what is believed to be a Adder.

Unfortunately, in this instance it has proven fatal.

Whilst most dogs can combat the venom in this instance the dog bitten was one of the minority that had an adverse effect which resulted in the tragic outcome.

I was not aware of the numbers of Adders in the south of England and the growing issues with them biting dogs. (Adders are found throughout the United Kingdom apart from NI and prefer woodland, heathland and moorland Male adders usually have silvery-grey colouration, while females can be copper or brown. Both have a distinctive, black zig-zag pattern along their backs. Fully black adders can be seen in some areas too).

 The advice is that should you believe your dog has been bitten by an Adder please restrict movement as much as possible (carry the dog to a vehicle) and seek veterinary assistance.

 We are unable to copy the leaflet but have pasted below contact details that may save time if passed on to your vet.

Veterinary Poisons Information Service 2nd Floor, Godfree Court, 29-35 Long Lane, SE1 4PL Telephone: 020 73 055 055; Fax: 020 3538 6639 Email: [email protected] (information); [email protected] (admin) Website: www.vpisglobal.com

Page 1 of 2 Adder bite in dogs, Version 8, November 2016 Copyright © 2016 Medical Toxicology and Information Services. All rights reserved.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MINUTES OF NASDU AGM

HELD ON THURSDAY 4^TH MAY 2023 AT WOKING FOOTBALL CLUB

 Present:          37 Present

1. Chairman

 The Chairman Jed Marshall opened the meeting at 1400 hours. His report was read by those present in which he thanked the hard work carried out by Roger and Sam at the Administration Office and Steve and Dianne at Head Office.

He went on to say how NASDU continues to be recognised by Government Departments and Agencies when engaging with the private sector and concluded with a brief update on the NCTAS-P Scheme.

Tribute was paid to one of our of Members Gabby Hutchinson who sadly lost her life working at the Brixton Academy.

He concluded with thanks to the guest speak for the morning session Wayne Gell and thanks to our sponsors for the day BJP Insurance and Gradko for their continued support to Members.

There were no matters arising.

2. Apologies for Absence

 There were 10 apologies received.

3. Minutes of AGM 12^th May 2022

 The Minutes of the 2002 AGM were read, there were no matters arising.

Proposed:        Andy Dodds

Seconded:       Trevor Wilding              Carried unanimously

4. Secretary’s Report (Head Office)

The Secretary Steve Hill first thank those that had assisted NASDU in achieving its objectives in 2023.

• Roger and Sam for their continued hard work at the Admin Office
• Dianne for her admin support at Head Office
• Sara for her work in achieving ISO 9001 status for NASDU
• Simon for his work on carrying out Trainer Inspections

And finally to the current Management Committee and Jed as Chairman for their continued support over the year.

He then went on to identify the main activities that Head Office had worked on throughout the year including accredited qualifications with HABC, NASDU Code of Practice for Trainers including Appendices, NASDU Level 4 EDD 320 Module, NASDU Inspected Companies Scheme, GP Team verification, hard bound GP manual, NACTAS-P.

Finally, it was confirmed that the review of BS 8517 has been delayed, will now take place following the review of BS 10800 and BS 7499, both of which are over arching standards to BS 8517 and will be reviewed in light of proposed legislation such as “Martyn’s Law” more formally known as the Protect Duty.

There were no matters arising.

5. Quality ISO 9001 Report

On behalf of the Associations Quality Consultant Sara Rathbone, the Secretary read an update on ISO 9001, confirming that the Association had received accreditation on 7^th February 2023.

The Secretary again thank Sara for her hard work on this project saying without her dedication and commitment we may not have achieved the first time around.

There were no matters arising.

6. Administration Office Report

 On behalf of the Administration Office Roger Flett gave the Membership Report showing as of 1^st May 2023 we had:

Company Members                      205 (includes Sole Traders)

Individual Members                      268

Affiliate Companies                       11

Approved Instructors/Trainers       61

Affiliate Overseas Trainers            11

He then went on to identify the main activities that the Administration Office had worked on throughout the year including:

Level 2 Verification Scheme, fraudulent certificates, L4 EDD-22 certification, introduction of ISO 9001, online applications, Team certificates linked to membership, certification charges, new Supervisors Course, complaints regarding welfare of dogs.

Action:

Following discussion, the Management Committee were tasked at their next meeting to:

1. Review the title of the Supervisors Course – consider BS Compliant (not Supervisor)
2. Consider the reintroduction of Assistant Trainer – consider wording specific to an in-house application only

There were no further matters arising.

7. Inspectorate Report

 Head of Inspectorate Simon Mallin gave a report of the Inspectors work in undertaking physical inspections for the renewal of Approved Instructors/Trainers status, which will now run for a period of 3 years similar to SIA licensing and ACS approval. It was noted that Trainers would still be subject to annual desktop reviews.

Simon also mentioned a new incentive by himself for a series of Trainer/Handler Workshops, which following the pilot in mid July could be rolled out around the UK.

There were no matters arising.

8. Financial Report (Head Officer)

 The Secretary Steve Hill as Association Treasurer and Director gave a report for the year ending 31/12/2022 for which a detailed income and expenditure account was distributed to those present.

He also went on to discuss the challenges of VAT registration and the introduction of a new computerised accounts system.

There were no matters arising.

Proposed:        Andy Dodds

Seconded:       Trevor Wilding              Carried unanimously

9. Amendment to Constitution

 The Secretary then took those present through a number of amendments to the Associations Constitution which had previously been distributed.

He explained that the review initially had been undertaken by himself and the Chairman as part of normal business practice, and that there were no major changes and nothing contentious, only minor changes to reflect current practice. He concluded that it had been agreed by the Management Committee and forwarded for approval at the Associations AGM.

There were no matters arising.

Proposed:        Dave Walker

Seconded:       Calum Brown               Carried unanimously

10. Election of the Committee

 The Secretary then commenced the election of the Committee under the Associations Constitution and Rules.

There being 13 nominations (1 withdrawal on the day) for 9 positions, it was stated that there would be a paper ballot. The Secretary reminded those present that voting was for an individual and what they could offer the Association and the wider security dog sector and not necessarily for an Individuals Company/employer.

The result of the ballot confirmed the following were formally elected to serve on the Management Committee for the following 12 months:

1. Andy Davies
2. Lee Deighton
3. Roger Flett
4. Steve Hill
5. Simon Mallin
6. Jed Marshall
7. Dave Pitt
8. Ali Tod
9. Trevor Wilding

The Secretary thanked those that were unsuccessful especially those that had served on the Committee during the preceding year.

There were not matters arising.

11. Notice of Appointment of Directors and Auditors

 The Secretary then put the following forward for ratification at the AGM:

Directors:         Steve Hill (Company Secretary & Director)

Roger Flett

Lee Deighton

Simon Mallin

Accounts:         Ashfield Accountancy of Woking

Proposed:        Andy Dodds

Seconded:       Trevor Wilding              Carried unanimously

12. Matters for Discussion

 The Secretary confirmed there had been four items submitted for discussion prior to the AGM.

1. Question was raised (MP) that in the BS a fit for duty certificate is required but on annual/quarterly assessments this is something that is currently not a requirement.

Action: Following discussion the Management Committee are to review annual certification paperwork

2. A request received (MW) to consider postal/email voting or e-voting via a portal or software system.

Action: Following discussion it was agreed for the Management Committee to review how voting is conducted at future AGM’s

3. A request was received (MW) to consider the rotation of the AGM through a variety of geographical locations throughout the UK and also to consider live streaming the AGM online.

Action: Following discussion it was agreed for the Management Committee to consider the location of future AGM’s and possibility of live streaming

4. A question was raised (LD) regarding the publication of a price list and identification of NASDU/Trainers charges.

Action: Following discussion during the morning session (within the Admin Office Report) it was agreed that this had been covered although both HO and the Admin Office would review the information put out on the Fact Sheets.

There was a further item submitted late for which the Chairman agreed could be discussed.

5. A question was raised (DW) as to how the required GLH’s could be achieved in a 6 day GP course.

Action: Following discussion it was agreed to reiterate to both Trainer and learner that it is essential to achieve the required GLH’s and this should be reflected in any advertisements i.e., the number of contact hours required to achieve rather than just a number of days.

There were no further matters arising.

13. Conclusion

 A brief summary of the day was given by the Secretary during which those present were informed of the passing of the Associations former Patron the Rt Hon Bruce George MP.

There being no further business the Secretary closed the meeting at 1515, having thanked those present for attending.

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NASDU – Australia

Since 2018 NASDU Head Office has been working with Mick Goodwin CEO of Dog Force Australia, to develop a National Association for Security Dog Users based in Australia.

Dog Force Australia are currently a NASDU Overseas company member, and during 2021 a Licence Agreement was signed with Mick Goodwin who is also a NASDU overseas Affiliate Trainer,

allowing NASDU-Australia a newly formed and registered Australian private company to operate using the NASDU-UK brand.

During this period and in the absence of any National Standards for Security Dog Handling in Australia, a Copyright Agreement was signed between NASDU-UK and Standards-Australia (Equivalent to the BSI in the UK) regarding the Intellectual Property Rights for our Level 2 GP and Level 4 EDD Learning programmes, this agreement would then allow both NASDU-Australia and Standards-Australia to develop their own National Standard for Security Dog Handling similar to our British Standard BS8517 in the UK..

The finalisation of this Australian Standard was approved by Standards-Australia for publication in March 2022 and has now been released as:

“Australian Standard – AS:5350 Privately Deployed Security and Detection Dogs”

Following the release of this Australian Standard Mick Goodwin and his team are now in the process of promoting NASDU-Australia and  implementing their Accreditation Process.

NASDU-UK acknowledges this strong affiliation between two National Associations and whilst miles apart, both organisations are working for the common good and  benefit of their members working in their respective National Private Security Dog Sectors.

Further information on NASDU-Australia and the work they are doing can be found at;

Website:  https://nasdu.com.au        Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/NASDUAustralia/

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

  MAIN ACTIVITIES

Accredited Vocational Qualifications – HABC

A complete review of NASDU’s suite of accredited qualifications took place in 2021 following changes to the framework of our qualifications in 2016/2017, together with changes imposed by the Regulatory Authority OFQUAL in 2018 regarding the change from “endorsed” too “accredited”.

This review was essential to ensure our learning programmes are current and fit for purpose. As a result of this review new Fact Sheets and Trainers Packs have been issued.

National Canine Training & Accreditation Scheme (NCTAS)

The NCTAS programme for government agencies has now been rolled out and to ensure that NASDU’s Level 4 EDD’s remain current and fit for purpose, we have taken these requirements as best practice and developed a new Level 4 EDD programme.

NASDU Level 4 Accredited Learning Programme for a Detection Dog Handler

Pathway: Explosive Detection Dog: 2022

This programme meets the requirements of existing L4 EDD (150 Module) learners, requiring additional guided learning hours to achieve the new programme (320 Module) and who may wish to seek assessment under the Home Officer NCTAS-P Scheme, through an Affiliate NCTAS-P Company.

New Level 4 (320 Module) Training Packs have now been issued to all approved EDD Instructors/Trainers.

Achievement of this programme does not imply Home Office accreditation under the NCTAS-P Scheme for either the handler or dog but allows for recognition of prior learning by the Home Office.

NASDU Approved Instructor/Trainer Code of Practice (COP)

The above COP was completely reviewed during 2020/21 and was issued to all NASDU Instructors/Trainers early in 2022.

Whilst a number of new policies and procedures have been added including a non-achievement policy, a full set of appendices is due to be published shortly as part of the Trainers COP.

British Standards – BS 8517 Part 1 & 2

Both parts of BS 8517 were due to be reviewed in 2021 but due to COVID-19 restrictions this did not happen.

NASDU has been in discussion with BSI, and it has been agreed once face to face meetings are again adopted by BSI then a panel shall be formed to carry out the review, hopefully towards the end of this year, although it is acknowledged that due to previous restrictions there is a backlog.

NASDU – Associate Company (Inspected) Status

Inspected Company status for Associate Company Members may be applied for subject to the following conditions being fully met.

• Associate Company must have been a NASDU Member for a minimum of 12 months
• Assessment must be carried out by an SIA/UKAS assessing body
  • e., NSI, SSAIB, CCAS
• Assessment must include product standards scope to the following standards
  • BS 10800, BS 7499, and BS 8517 (Part 1 or 2)
• Assessing body assessor must be approved by NASDU
• Assessment must be valid for the full duration of Associate Company Membership

Any Associate Company considering the above are advised to contact NASDU Head Office prior to any contractual commitments to their nominated assessing body, as assessed/inspected status is not automatically guaranteed.

GP Manual

The NASDU GP Manual is now available to handlers via their Trainers in a bound book format. Trainers wishing to purchase these books should contact Sam at the administration office.

ISO 9001

Following a Management Committee meeting at which business continuity measures were discussed, a Quality Consultant was appointed in 2021 to embark on attaining the quality standard BS EN

MAIN ACTIVITIES

Accredited Vocational Qualifications – HABC

A complete review of NASDU’s suite of accredited qualifications took place in 2021 following changes to the framework of our qualifications in 2016/2017, together with changes imposed by the Regulatory Authority OFQUAL in 2018 regarding the change from “endorsed” too “accredited”.

This review was essential to ensure our learning programmes are current and fit for purpose. As a result of this review new Fact Sheets and Trainers Packs have been issued.

National Canine Training & Accreditation Scheme (NCTAS)

The NCTAS programme for government agencies has now been rolled out and to ensure that NASDU’s Level 4 EDD’s remain current and fit for purpose, we have taken these requirements as best practice and developed a new Level 4 EDD programme.

NASDU Level 4 Accredited Learning Programme for a Detection Dog Handler

Pathway: Explosive Detection Dog: 2022

This programme meets the requirements of existing L4 EDD (150 Module) learners, requiring additional guided learning hours to achieve the new programme (320 Module) and who may wish to seek assessment under the Home Officer NCTAS-P Scheme, through an Affiliate NCTAS-P Company.

New Level 4 (320 Module) Training Packs have now been issued to all approved EDD Instructors/Trainers.

Achievement of this programme does not imply Home Office accreditation under the NCTAS-P Scheme for either the handler or dog but allows for recognition of prior learning by the Home Office.

NASDU Approved Instructor/Trainer Code of Practice (COP)

The above COP was completely reviewed during 2020/21 and was issued to all NASDU Instructors/Trainers early in 2022.

Whilst a number of new policies and procedures have been added including a non-achievement policy, a full set of appendices is due to be published shortly as part of the Trainers COP.

British Standards – BS 8517 Part 1 & 2

Both parts of BS 8517 were due to be reviewed in 2021 but due to COVID-19 restrictions this did not happen.

NASDU has been in discussion with BSI, and it has been agreed once face to face meetings are again adopted by BSI then a panel shall be formed to carry out the review, hopefully towards the end of this year, although it is acknowledged that due to previous restrictions there is a backlog.

NASDU – Associate Company (Inspected) Status

Inspected Company status for Associate Company Members may be applied for subject to the following conditions being fully met.

• Associate Company must have been a NASDU Member for a minimum of 12 months
• Assessment must be carried out by an SIA/UKAS assessing body
  • e., NSI, SSAIB, CCAS
• Assessment must include product standards scope to the following standards
  • BS 10800, BS 7499, and BS 8517 (Part 1 or 2)
• Assessing body assessor must be approved by NASDU
• Assessment must be valid for the full duration of Associate Company Membership

Any Associate Company considering the above are advised to contact NASDU Head Office prior to any contractual commitments to their nominated assessing body, as assessed/inspected status is not automatically guaranteed.

GP Manual

The NASDU GP Manual is now available to handlers via their Trainers in a bound book format. Trainers wishing to purchase these books should contact Sam at the administration office.

ISO 9001

Following a Management Committee meeting at which business continuity measures were discussed, a Quality Consultant was appointed in 2021 to embark on attaining the quality standard BS EN ISO 9001:2015.

As a result, we have been very busy over the past year, to the point that prior to the AGM we shall have had our first internal audit, prior to the formal audit probably in June by the Assessing Body ACM-CCAS Ltd.

Team Verification

I am pleased to confirm that during January our team verification (for GP Teams) went live on our website. This verification facility has taken longer than anticipated due to access issue and the need to be GDPR compliant and as such a new database had to be written, and I thank Sam for all her hard work.

Users can now enter the handlers name and their NASDU Handler number together with the name of the dog and its microchip number (all of which appear on the Team certificate) and if a match is found then it will confirm the expiry date of any current NASDU GP Team certification.

It is now planned to roll this out for L3 DDD and L4 EDD.

Finally whilst NASDU shall endeavour to ensure that all relevant information is disseminated to its Members and Trainers via email together with postings on its website and Facebook page, all Members are reminded that if they have a query or are in need of information or advice then they should contact either Head Officer or our administration office who would be more than will to assist.

Steve Hill

Association Secretary

MAIN ACTIVITIES

Accredited Vocational Qualifications – HABC

A complete review of NASDU’s suite of accredited qualifications took place in 2021 following changes to the framework of our qualifications in 2016/2017, together with changes imposed by the Regulatory Authority OFQUAL in 2018 regarding the change from “endorsed” too “accredited”.

This review was essential to ensure our learning programmes are current and fit for purpose. As a result of this review new Fact Sheets and Trainers Packs have been issued.

National Canine Training & Accreditation Scheme (NCTAS)

The NCTAS programme for government agencies has now been rolled out and to ensure that NASDU’s Level 4 EDD’s remain current and fit for purpose, we have taken these requirements as best practice and developed a new Level 4 EDD programme.

NASDU Level 4 Accredited Learning Programme for a Detection Dog Handler

Pathway: Explosive Detection Dog: 2022

This programme meets the requirements of existing L4 EDD (150 Module) learners, requiring additional guided learning hours to achieve the new programme (320 Module) and who may wish to seek assessment under the Home Officer NCTAS-P Scheme, through an Affiliate NCTAS-P Company.

New Level 4 (320 Module) Training Packs have now been issued to all approved EDD Instructors/Trainers.

Achievement of this programme does not imply Home Office accreditation under the NCTAS-P Scheme for either the handler or dog but allows for recognition of prior learning by the Home Office.

NASDU Approved Instructor/Trainer Code of Practice (COP)

The above COP was completely reviewed during 2020/21 and was issued to all NASDU Instructors/Trainers early in 2022.

Whilst a number of new policies and procedures have been added including a non-achievement policy, a full set of appendices is due to be published shortly as part of the Trainers COP.

British Standards – BS 8517 Part 1 & 2

Both parts of BS 8517 were due to be reviewed in 2021 but due to COVID-19 restrictions this did not happen.

NASDU has been in discussion with BSI, and it has been agreed once face to face meetings are again adopted by BSI then a panel shall be formed to carry out the review, hopefully towards the end of this year, although it is acknowledged that due to previous restrictions there is a backlog.

NASDU – Associate Company (Inspected) Status

Inspected Company status for Associate Company Members may be applied for subject to the following conditions being fully met.

• Associate Company must have been a NASDU Member for a minimum of 12 months
• Assessment must be carried out by an SIA/UKAS assessing body
  • e., NSI, SSAIB, CCAS
• Assessment must include product standards scope to the following standards
  • BS 10800, BS 7499, and BS 8517 (Part 1 or 2)
• Assessing body assessor must be approved by NASDU
• Assessment must be valid for the full duration of Associate Company Membership

Any Associate Company considering the above are advised to contact NASDU Head Office prior to any contractual commitments to their nominated assessing body, as assessed/inspected status is not automatically guaranteed.

GP Manual

The NASDU GP Manual is now available to handlers via their Trainers in a bound book format. Trainers wishing to purchase these books should contact Sam at the administration office.

ISO 9001

Following a Management Committee meeting at which business continuity measures were discussed, a Quality Consultant was appointed in 2021 to embark on attaining the quality standard BS EN ISO 9001:2015.

As a result, we have been very busy over the past year, to the point that prior to the AGM we shall have had our first internal audit, prior to the formal audit probably in June by the Assessing Body ACM-CCAS Ltd.

Team Verification

I am pleased to confirm that during January our team verification (for GP Teams) went live on our website. This verification facility has taken longer than anticipated due to access issue and the need to be GDPR compliant and as such a new database had to be written, and I thank Sam for all her hard work.

Users can now enter the handlers name and their NASDU Handler number together with the name of the dog and its microchip number (all of which appear on the Team certificate) and if a match is found then it will confirm the expiry date of any current NASDU GP Team certification.

It is now planned to roll this out for L3 DDD and L4 EDD.

Finally whilst NASDU shall endeavour to ensure that all relevant information is disseminated to its Members and Trainers via email together with postings on its website and Facebook page, all Members are reminded that if they have a query or are in need of information or advice then they should contact either Head Officer or our administration office who would be more than will to assist.

Steve Hill

Association Secretary

NASDU Level 4 Accredited Programme for Detection Dog Handler

Pathway: Explosive Detection Dog: 2022

This new Level 4 EDD Handler Qualification ( 320 module) is now available via NASDU’s network of Approved Instructor/Trainers.

New learners wishing to achieve this qualification will now have to demonstrate a minimum total of 320 guided Learning Hours (GLH’s),

as opposed to 150 GLH’s for the original qualification (150 module).

Existing Level 4 EDD handlers can however up-skill to the new qualification without the need to complete another full training course by contacting their preferred EDD Trainer, who will be able to explain how this can be achieved by the use of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) together with the use of future CT training sessions.

Because this new 320 module which is also accredited by HABC, is a completely new qualification, existing handlers will unfortunately still have to register for the new qualification, so in recognition of an individual’s previous expenditure, NASDU is offering all EDD up-skilling at cost, making the fee payable £40-00 inc VAT, as opposed to the full registration fee for new learners of £65-00 plus VAT

Whilst each existing L4 EDD handler will need to be assessed (as a team with their Dog) prior to registration, the following is a very simple scenario which the Trainer could apply, and which as a result would appear on the individual’s attendance record;

Example

Handler- Currently holds the original L4 EDD Qualification (Achieved xx/xx/xx)……………………….………150 GLH’s

Handler- Currently works within the security sector as an EDD handler and has

xx years’ experience.

Holds a current team certificate and has been assessed as competent.

Can evidence monthly CT training over the past 12 months……………………………………..…………………70 GLH’s

Handler-Since registering for the new L4 EDD qualification has completed the

following CT sessions in accordance with new performance criteria:-

xx/xx/xx

xx/xx/xx

xx/xx/xx etc………………………………………… ………………..100 GLH’s

Total      320 GLH’s

Should a learner when undertaking their original L4 EDD qualification have completed in excess of 150 GLH’s because their trainer at the time instructed them on route search, then these additional hours over and above the required 150 hours can also be added to the above, which would subsequently reduce the number of future CT hours required to make up the 320 GLH’S for this new qualification.
NB: These additional hours can only be added if evidenced on the learners original attendance record for the 150 module.

Finally team certification using the old L4 EDD qualification as the basis for an individual’s skills, knowledge and understanding will cease 31/12/22, and as such all EDD handlers requiring team certification as from 01/01/23  MUST hold the new L4 EDD qualification (320 module)

The above is issued as a simple guide to what RPL can be awarded to an individual, and existing L4 EDD handlers are encouraged to speak with their trainer to establish how much RPL may be given. Further information on this new qualification is available as a fact sheet on our web site under training.

Alternatively handlers can contact either our Administration office or Head office for further information and guidance on this matter.

NASDU Head Office

February 2022  _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

NASDU is pleased to announce that the out of hours “Team Verification” facility for GP Dog Teams is now live on our website.

Whilst this project has been a lot of hard work at both our Head Office and Administration Office, it is believed that this facility which can be accessed 24 hours, 7 days a week, will be a huge benefit to the private security dog sector.

This Team Verification facility which is aimed at employers and end users i.e., clients, allows the user to verify any NASDU GP dog certification by just entering the handlers name and their handler number from their certification.  This facility can also be used if no certificate present as long as the handler knows their handler number.  In all cases it is the responsibility of employer/end user to independently confirm the identity of the handler.

Verification Procedure

1. Go to the NASDU website – nasdu.co.uk
2. Click on “Security Guarding Dogs” on opening page
3. Click on “NASDU Security Dog Team Verification” which is located within the banner running across the home page
4. Complete the two fields i.e., handler name and number

If there is a match, you will be given the following:

• Handlers – name, number and SIA licence number (if on file)
• Dog – name, number, microchip number and description
• Type of certification – i.e., annual
• Date of team certification – date from to expiry date
• Comments – i.e., HABC Level 2 GP

If no match is found, retry or contact NASDU’s Verification Team on [email protected] or 01483 224320 Option 1, who will be happy to assist you further during office hours.

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NASDU is pleased to announce that as from 10^th January 2022 we will be introducing a new Level 4 EDD qualification:

NASDU Level 4 Accredited Learning Programme for a Detection Dog Handler

Pathway: Explosive Detection Dog:2022

This new training programme has been developed by NASDU over the past year, in response to the Governments introduction of the NCTAS-P scheme.

A Fact Sheet giving all the details of this new programme including additional content which as a consequence increases the Guided Learning Hours (GLH’s) from 150 to 320, is published on our website.

Timetable for the introduction of the new qualification (320 Module) and removal of the old qualification (150 Module) will be as follows:

Step 1 – Trainers will be able to register learners on the new qualification as from 10.01.2022

Step 2 – Registrations under the old qualification will now only be accepted up until 31.03.2022

Step 3 – Certifications under the old qualification will cease as of 31.12.2022

New Trainers packs for the new qualification (320 Module) will be issued to all current Approved EDD Instructors/Trainers during January 2022.  A new Instructors/Trainers C.O.P.:2022 will be issued at the same time.

Any person wishing further information should contact either their local EDD Instructor/Trainer or Head Office.

Steve Hill

Association Secretary & Director

NASDU Head Office

01483 224320 Option 2

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It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing away of Gaff Elliot. Gaff had been a NASDU trainer for many years and a great ambassador of our association, whilst most of Gaffs work was overseas he was well respected within the UK private dog sector.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

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As you may be aware, the government has recently reviewed Protect Duty in crowded environments and events.

This undoubtedly will have a impact on considerations reference the use of dogs to assist in legal obligations.

Below is a link to the HMG findings and information.

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/protect-duty/outcome/government-response-document

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To all Members                                                               VAT Registration

Please be advised that as from 1^st– January- 2022,  NASDU will become registered for VAT.

Whilst this is not necessarily our choice, this is something that we are now legally obliged to undertake as we have reached the HMRC threshold, which shows that even during these difficult times, we as an association are still growing.

The impact on members will be that as from 01-01-2022 all invoices will have VAT charged at the current rate of 20%.

So as not to disadvantage individual members who are not VAT registered, it has been decided to keep their individual annual membership at; £25-00 inclusive of VAT from their next renewal.

Company members who are generally VAT registered, it has been decided to charge annual membership at;

£100-00 plus VAT again from their next renewal.

All other services (ie Certifications, Merchandise, Trainer inspections etc) will be subject to VAT.

Any member who may require further information as to the impact of VAT on themselves as either an individual or company should contact NASDU Head Office and we will endeavour to assist you the best we can.

Assuring you of our best attention at all times.

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PROCEDURE FOR THE NOTIFICATION OF CONCERNS

NASDU is proud of its achievements regarding standards and qualifications within the UK private security dog sector, and as part of our Quality Management System we welcome feedback from industry including concerns (and if applicable complaints).

Any person having a concern regarding either a NASDU:

Company Member

Individual Handler/Member

Individual Approved Trainer

Should put their concern in writing giving full details together with evidence of their concern.

It is also essential that when writing we also receive the name and contact details of the person raising the concern, so we can investigate and respond.

NASDU will not investigate anonymous concerns that are not put in full and in writing,

Recently a letter was received at Head Office on 14/09/2021, the sender failed to identify themselves, provide an address or any contact details, the letter was not even dated.

Whilst the concerns raised within that letter have initially been investigated to the best of our ability, given the lack of any substantial evidence, we are unable to respond to the individual due to the lack of contact details provided.

Steve Hill – Co Secretary

NASDU Head Office

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NEWS

Benefits of using security detection dogs as a post lockdown security regime.

We have recently received an article from Jed Marshal of ICTS. It has been written as advice to their clients about the need to ensure that they have thought about requirements for security post lock down and the benefits of using security detection dogs as part of there post lockdown security regime.

Jed has kindly agreed that we may share this article with our members as it makes interesting reading and has some particularly good links that our members and their clients may find useful.

The following is the link to the article https://lnkd.in/d5jHkrc If you are concerned about using the link then please go to it via the ICTS Uk and Ireland page on linkedin.

We hope you find the article of interest and would like to thank Jed Marshal for making it available to share.

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NASDU would like to congratulate Highfields on recent awards for their

Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) Awareness e-learning.

This is an exceptionally good free resource for all business’s, and we would recommend our company members register and dog handlers look at the individual training.

The e courses are easy to access and are free just follow the link below.

https://ct.highfieldelearning.com/

The following is taken from Highfields press release:-

ACT Awareness took TWO awards at the Outstanding Security Performance Awards held on 25 February 2021. The e-learning component took home the Outstanding Security Training Initiative award, which recognises and rewards excellent contributions to learning in the security sector. And the ACT Awareness app, developed by Urim in partnership with NaCTSO and Marks and Spencer and launched only 12 months ago, took the Outstanding Security Training Initiative award, which is a fantastic way to top off its first year of operation.

But that wasn’t all.

On 18 February 2021, the ACT Awareness e-learning was awarded one of the top awards in the Learning Impact category at the Learning Awards, which recognises businesses that have implemented any kind of learning intervention or learning programme that has had a measurable impact on outcomes.
That put the ACT Awareness e-learning up against learning programmes from some of the biggest names in the corporate world, so to have the impact of its learning recognised, and to take one of the main prizes, is a huge achievement and something we’re extremely proud of.

The ACT Awareness e-learning and app provide potentially life-saving advice and the steps to follow should a terrorist attack ever happen. It tells you what you need to do to help protect your staff, customers and members of the public, making sure your business is adequately prepared for any eventuality.
Both are great for learning, and the app is a fantastic resource for businesses and their staff to have to hand should the worst ever happen. We’re hugely proud to see its value recognised in such a way.

So if you want to see what all the fuss is about, and why there are already 10,000 businesses registered to both the ACT Awareness e-learning and ACT Awareness app, just go to https://ct.highfieldelearning.com/ to play your part in keeping the public and colleagues safe.

The following statement is taken from the SIA website and will apply to all dog handlers when they come to renew their current SIA licence

We are making some changes to the training you need to take before you can get a front line SIA licence. These changes will happen in April and October 2021.

The changes are:

• on 1 April 2021, we will introduce updated qualifications for all sectors except close protection
• from 1 April 2021, you must have a first aid qualification before you can apply for a door supervisor or security guard licence
• on 1 October 2021, we will introduce updated close protection qualifications
• from 1 October 2021, you must have one of the new qualifications or take top-up training before you can apply for a door supervisor and security guard licence – this includes renewals

Why are we making these changes?

We need to make sure that people working in the private security industry can:

• keep the public safe
• follow new working practices
• understand recent changes to the law
• make the best use of new technology

New requirement: first aid training

We already expect applicants for a close protection licence to complete a first aid qualification before taking their licence-linked training.

From 1 April 2021, we will also expect applicants for a door supervisor or security guard licence to do the same.

You will need to do this if either of the following apply:

• you are applying for a licence for the first time
• it has been longer than 3 years since you last held a licence for that activity

From 1 October 2021, you will also need to do this if you are renewing your licence.

The qualification must be an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification or equivalent.

What do we mean by “equivalent”?

We will accept other qualifications that comply with the relevant guidance from the Health and Safety Executive. Some examples are:

• First Aid at Work (FAW)
• First Person on Scene (FPOS)
• First Response Emergency Care (FREC)

Your training provider can tell you more about this.

New requirement: top-up training

From 1 October 2021, you must have one of the following before you can apply for a door supervisor or security guard licence:

• one of the new qualifications introduced on 1 April
• one of the older licence-linked qualifications and a ‘top-up’ qualification

This applies to any applications submitted on or after 1 October, including renewals. If you submit your application before this date, you will not need take additional training.

Other changes

More relevant course material

We have moved training that is critical for all sectors to the ‘common unit’ (taken by all security operatives). This includes new training on:

• terror threat awareness
• dealing with emergencies

We have introduced new sector-specific content – for example:

• the close protection course includes new material on physical intervention
• the door supervision course includes new material on the use of equipment such as body worn video recorders and breathalysers
• the public space surveillance (CCTV) course includes new material on CCTV operational procedures and the law
• the security guarding course includes new material covering personal safety

More practical assessments

We have increased the number of practical elements in the training to help learners reinforce their knowledge. The practical assessments include:

• searching
• dealing with conflict
• report/statement writing
• using communications devices

The following link will take you to the relevant SIA website https://www.gov.uk/government/news/changes-to-the-training-you-need-for-an-sia-licence?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_source=4ba9851a-e9e0-45e4-b351-6905c3f29a4f&utm_content=daily

We would suggest that any questions about equivalent qualifications be directed to the SIA as we do not have this information. However, if any handlers have significant issues or feel that there is an issue regarding this that NASDU can help with please get in touch.

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Self-Employed Security Dog Handlers

HMRC, as many members know, has recently held several webinars in conjunction with the SIA, the purpose of these were to explain the need for companies to comply with current Agency legislation. Whilst this was primarily aimed at ACS Companies, it is applicable to all contract security companies deploying self-employed Dog Handlers, as well as having a knock on effect to the individual Dog Handler ensuring that PAYE Tax is paid at source by the Handler.

At this stage it must be noted that this is only applicable to the self-employed Dog Handler who contracts through a security provider who in turn is then deployed on a client’s site. It is not applicable to the self-employed Dog handler who contracts directly with a client and is then deployed on that clients site.

Whilst this is not a Standards or Qualification issue or indeed a security issue, it is something that will affect a large percentage of Security Dog handlers in the UK and is why NASDU is keeping an eye on this developing situation.  As a result NASDU has spoken with a number of company members as well as individual members together with several inspectorate bodies (ie NSI and SSAIB) regarding the impact this will have on the Private Security Dog Sector,  NASDU has also had a meeting with representatives from the SIA on this same issue.

At the meeting with the SIA (which incidentally was at the request of the SIA) NASDU heard the arguments that had been put forward by HMRC regarding the implementation of Agency legislation.

As a result NASDU asked the SIA for more flexibility at this stage in their approach to HMRC compliance within the ACS scheme, in that companies should be given sufficient time to implement a PAYE scheme and if this took till the end of the financial year/period then this should be acceptable.

It was also suggested that the SIA should take a more uniform approach ensuring that all ACS companies be given a date by which time they should all be compliant and not just when an individual company ACS compliance visit is due, thus ensuring a level playing field for all.

In the meantime, whilst we await a response back from the SIA regarding a more flexible approach, NASDU is supporting a move by one of its long standing and respected members who are taking legal advice regarding the possibility of a Legal challenge as to how this current Agency legislation and its interpretation will have a significant impact on the legitimate self-employed Security Dog Handler, once this is done we hopefully will have a definitive answer to the question.

Members with any information that may assist any legal challenge or require any further information should contact NASDU Head Office.