View source for Ministry of Defence Guard Service

{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox government agency
| agency_name     = Ministry of Defence Guard Service
| type            = 
| logo            = MOD-GUARD-SERVICE-BADGE-LOGO.png
| logo_width      = 180px
| logo_caption    = MOD Guard Service Patch and Insignia
| formed          = 1992<ref>{{cite web |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/231265/0624.pdf |title=Archived |access-date=24 April 2022 }}</ref>
| preceding1      = Ministry of Defence Guard Force
| preceding2      = Ministry of Defence Police and Guarding Agency
| dissolved       = 
| superseding     = 
| jurisdiction    = 
| headquarters    = 
| region_code     = 
| coordinates     = 
| employees       = 2,500+<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.vercida.com/uk/jobs/dio-ministry-of-defence-guard-service-security-officer-shift-worker-defence-infrastructure-organisation-bristol |title=DIO Ministry of Defence Guard Service Security Officer Shift worker - Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8JH, UK - VERCIDA |access-date=21 January 2022 |archive-date=21 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121103718/https://www.vercida.com/uk/jobs/dio-ministry-of-defence-guard-service-security-officer-shift-worker-defence-infrastructure-organisation-bristol |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| budget          = £116.8m (2012/13)<ref>{{cite web |title=Corporate Business Plan 2009-2013 / Business Plan 2006-2007 |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/28481/mdpgacorpbusplan20092013.pdf |website=Ministry of Defence Police and Guarding Agency}}</ref>
| minister1_name  = 
| minister1_pfo   = 
| chief1_name     = Mark Wakeford
| chief1_position = Head of Unarmed Guarding
| agency_type     = Unarmed Guarding
| parent_agency   = [[Defence Infrastructure Organisation]]
| website         = [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mod-guard-service Official Website]
| footnotes       = 
| map             = 
| map_width       = 
| map_caption     = 
}}

The '''Ministry of Defence Guard Service''' ('''MGS''') is part of the [[Defence Infrastructure Organisation]] of the [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]], it provides Defence establishments across the [[United Kingdom]] with [[security guard|guarding]] and patrol services and was established as a response to the [[Deal barracks bombing|Deal Bombing]].<ref>[https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mod-guard-service MOD Guard Service], GOV.UK. Retrieved 8 November 2015.</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=12 December 2001 |title=House of Commons - Defence - Appendices to the Minutes of Evidence |url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200102/cmselect/cmdfence/348/348ap03.htm |website=www.publications.parliament.uk}}</ref> The Guard Service is one of the few remaining uniformed Civil Service agencies within the UK, and has been named an elite guarding service within the United Kingdom.<ref name="MOD_Flashlight37">{{cite web |title=Flashlight Issue 37 |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/28491/FLASH37.pdf |access-date=9 April 2022 |website=GOV.UK }}</ref> They provide the highest level of security to Defence assets supporting critical Defence assets.<ref>{{Cite web |title=MOD Guard Service |url=https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mod-guard-service |access-date=2022-12-08 |website=GOV.UK |language=en}}</ref>

The MGS deals with access and pass control, initial response, key control, vehicle and personnel searching, security patrols of buildings and [[perimeter fence]]s, dog patrols, [[Closed-circuit television|CCTV]], and alarm monitoring. It also performs other duties like helicopter marshalling, first aid provision, mail and baggage scanning, security sweeps, and health and safety guidance and the cordoning off of suspected bomb threats.<ref name="Mod">{{cite web |title=MOD Guard Service |url=https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mod-guard-service |access-date=7 April 2022 |website=GOV.UK }}</ref>

[[File:MGS-TUNIC-LINING.jpg|thumb|MGS Officers wearing tunics at Whitehall line the outer foyer for a VIP.]]

== Organisation and grades ==
The Ministry of Defence Guard Service (MGS) is composed of staff at all grades between SZ2 and Senior Civil Servant (SCS) Pay Band 1 (SCS PB1). A list of these is - SZ2, E2, E1, D, C2, C1, B2, B1, SCS PB1. The non-uniformed staff in MGS cover a range of business management functions and grades, for example, secretariat, service delivery, assurance, personnel management, training, standards and stores roles from SZ2 to SCS PB1 level.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/715254/response/1712553/attach/2/20210126%20F.pdf?cookie_passthrough=1| title = Ministry of Defence Guard Service Rank Structure}}</ref>

Grades are often referred to by officers by the antiquated grading system’s number (e.g. CSO4 may be referred to as a "four" and CSO5 a "five"). The MGS also has support, administrative and managerial staff including programme and project managers, training staff and communications staff.<ref>{{cite web |date=6 April 2020 |title=The MOD Guard Service – still working for Defence |url=https://www.vercida.com/uk/articles/the-mod-guard-service-dio-still-working |access-date=7 April 2022 |website=VERCIDA }}</ref><ref name="MOD Guard Service">{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mod-guard-service|title = MOD Guard Service}}</ref>
{{-}}
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
!colspan=7|Ministry of Defence Guard Service grades and insignia
|-
!Rank
|BRM
|AOM
|OM
|colspan=2|CSO4
|CSO5
|-
!Epaulette insignia
|[[File:CSO1 epaulette.jpg|80px]]
|[[File:CSO2 epaulette.jpg|center|80px]]
|[[File:CSO3 epaulette.jpg|center|80px]]
|[[File:CSO4 alternate insignia.jpg|center|80px]]
|[[File:CSO4.jpg|center|80px]]
|[[File:CSO5 epaulette.jpg|alt=Epaulette denoting 'MOD Guard Service'|80px]]
|}

== Dog section ==
[[File:MGS-fs-ds-g.jpg|thumb|MGS Dog Handler with his Military Working Dog in front of an MOD Carrier van]]
[[File:Old-handler-black-dog.jpg|thumb|A handler wearing a foldable MOD baseball cap displays his dog in front of an MOD Dog Section Carrier.]]
[[File:Mgs-dog-section-lakenheath.jpg|thumb|An officer from the MOD Guard Service's Dog Section patrolling nearby some Apache helicopters at RAF Lakenheath]]
The MGS has its own dog section, made up of CSO5 (dog handlers) and military working dogs (MWDs), which provide support to other officers.<ref>{{cite web |title=Come join our team! |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/867970/20190531-MGS_Recruitment_Flyer_001_tagged.pdf |website=Ministry of Defence Guard Service}}</ref> The working dogs are a requirement to some MoD stations' licensing requirements to hold, store and distribute arms and ammunition, as well as other vital assets. The dogs within the MGS are recognised as force multipliers, in which the MGS say one dog team is as efficient as four officers working a beat patrol. The dog section adheres to MoD, military and statutory standards for training and welfare and are subject to the [[rules of engagement]] when met with fleeing suspects on defence estates.<ref>{{cite web|date=29 June 2020|title=Using dogs to boost security|url=https://insidedio.blog.gov.uk/2020/06/29/a-force-multiplier-using-dogs-to-boost-security/|website=Gov.uk}}</ref>

== Performance ==
[[File:MOD-GUARD-SERVICE.png|thumb|MOD Guard Service Logo under UK Government Regulations]]
The MGS's standards are maintained through external accreditation. They hold the following awards:

* National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold Standard
* Customer Service Excellence (CSE) Award
* Committed to Equality (C2E) Award<ref>{{cite web|title=MOD Guard Service|url=https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mod-guard-service|access-date=4 January 2022|website=GOV.UK}}</ref>
* Government Security Team of the Year Award 2021<ref>{{cite web|title=DIO's MOD Guard Service Win 'Team of the Year' at this year's Government Security Awards|url=https://www.vercida.com/uk/articles/dio-mod-guard-service-win-team-of-the-year|access-date=4 January 2022|website=VERCIDA}}</ref>

==History==
From 2004 to 2013 MGS and [[Ministry of Defence Police]] worked in the [[Ministry of Defence Police and Guarding Agency]], and were based out of [[MDP Wethersfield|MDPGA Wethersfield]] (previously RAF Wethersfield) in Essex. In April 2013, the MDPGA was disbanded and the MGS joined the [[Defence Infrastructure Organisation]].

From 2019 to 2020 MoD Guard Service personnel completed around 800,000 personal and vehicle searches across the Defence estate, confiscated over 9,000 out of date security and vehicle passes, reported just under 3,000 security breaches and completed over 117,000 environmental/energy conservation actions whilst undertaking patrols.<ref>{{cite web|date=2020|title=DIO Annual Report 2019/2020|url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/900850/DIO_Annual_Report_2019-20.pdf|website=Gov.uk}}</ref>

===Operation Riverbank===

At the request of the UK Border Force various officers from the MGS assisted in Border operations during a 7 week period whilst the [[London 2012 Olympics]] were ongoing. This included detached duties to London Heathrow, Standsted Airport, Coquelles and potentially other ports as part of operations that were left undocumented in the public domain. This detachment was completed alongside the [[Ministry of Defence Police|MOD Police]], and officers were trained at [[MDP Wethersfield|MDPGA Weathersfield]] in order to work on the borders effectively.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Flashlight 20 Year Anniversary |url=https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/199946/response/495949/attach/6/Flashlight%20Issue43.pdf?cookie_passthrough=1 |archive-url= |access-date=November 8, 2022 |website=Whatdotheyknow}}</ref>

==Uniform and equipment==
[[File:MOD Guard Service Beret and Badge MOD 45158243.jpg|thumb|MOD Guard Service beret and cap-badge]]

Although the MGS are a guarding organisation; they wear a similar uniform to police forces such as the [[Metropolitan Police|MET]] Police Service. This consists of: [[File:MGS MDP MOD MAIN BUILDING.jpg|thumb|280x280px|Officers from the [[Ministry of Defence Police|MDP]] and MGS in public at [[Ministry of Defence Main Building|Whitehall, London]]]]
[[File:Mgs dog sec 2020.jpg|thumb|MGS Dog Handler on a joint exercise with the [[British Army|Army]]]]

=== Standard issue CSO uniform ===

* Short-sleeved white shirt (summer dress)
* Long-sleeved white shirt (winter dress)
* NATO "woolly-pulley" navy blue jumper
* Dark navy blue [[peaked cap]] (with MGS cap badge)
* Dark navy blue beret (only issued to officers stationed at air bases that host the [[United States Air Force]])
* Black trousers (black [[Cargo pants|combat trousers]] sometimes worn)
* Duty kit belt
* Black steel-toe-capped boots or shoes (officer specific)
* Black epaulettes denoting "MoD Guard Service" and [[#Grades|grade]]
* Black waterproof trousers
* Black waterproof hat cover
* High visibility (printed with "MoD Security" in a navy blue box on breast and back) 
** High visibility light vest
** High visibility fleece (no epaulettes)
** High visibility waterproof coat
* Black British Army MkII combat glove

===Additional dog section uniform===

* [[Black beret#United Kingdom|Dark navy blue beret]] (with MGS cap badge)
* Black waterproof/foldable cap denoting "MoD"
* Black equipment vest
* Black field jacket
* Combat/cargo trousers

=== Other uniform ===

* Black polo shirt with "MGS" logo on breast
* White overalls (for vehicle searching)
* Sealskin "beanie" hat
* High-visibility vest<ref>{{cite web|title=MoD Security Guards on selective industrial action due to T&Cs dispute|url=https://www.gbc.gi/news/mod-security-guards-selective-industrial-action-due-tcs-dispute|access-date=1 January 2022|website=www.gbc.gi}}</ref>
* Official MOD Guard Service tunic (number two) worn on special occasions <ref>{{cite web|last=Shearin|first=Martin|date=2012|title=GOC's Commendation for CSO5 Martin Shearin Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall|url=https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/199946/response/495949/attach/5/Flashlight%20Issue42.pdf?cookie_passthrough=1}}</ref>
* [[Stab vest#United Kingdom|Stab vest]] denoting department and role "MoD Security"

[[File:MGS-celebrate-remembrance.jpg|thumb|5 officers celebrate Remembrance Day 2022, one officer is a MGS Tunic displaying a rack of medals.]]

=== Equipment ===
Equipment carried can include but is not limited to:

* Air-wave radio 
* LED torch or [[Maglite]]
* [[First aid]] kit
* Acid attack kit
* Vehicle search equipment 
* Security-infringement paperwork 
* Fire safety management plans 
* Official personal notebook (PNB) and pen

==Foundation training==
[[File:Dog sec 2010 arms explosives search course.jpg|alt=MoD Guard Serviceman taking part in a Arms/Explosives Dog Handling course with members of the British Army|thumb|250x250px|MoD Guard Serviceman (right) taking part in an arms/explosives dog handling course with members of the British Army]]
Currently MGS officers are expected to attend a ten day long foundation course which includes industry leading training <ref name="MOD Guard Service"/> and equips officers with skills regarding service delivery and conflict management, emergency first aid (including trauma first aid) amongst other security and defence related training. This is then followed by a 6 month probation period where the officer will be assessed by their Operations Manager.

== Capabilities ==

=== Operation Riverbank ===

Operation in place to train and utilise MGS Officers within UK Borderforce in times of need.

=== Services ===
Source:<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 2004 |title=Talk Through |url=https://www.nuclearinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Talk-Through-Issue-117.pdf |website=Nuclear Info}}</ref>

Access control
* Control of access and egress
* Visitor reception duties
* Traffic control
* Control of passes
* Searching vehicles and personnel
* Control and issues of keys 
Patrols
* Security patrols of buildings and perimeters
* Dog patrols
Communication and monitoring
* CCTV monitoring
* Observation tower duties
* Alarm monitoring
* Liaison with other security providers 
Emergency response
* Contribute to counter terror planning
* Contribute to emergency response
Specialist duties
* First aid
* Unit security officer
* Scanning of mail and baggage
* Helicopter marshalling

==Controversy==
===OMEC===
In mid 2020 the Operational MGS Employment Contract (OMEC) was introduced to newly recruited officers, this contract saw that on paper officers would earn around £25,000 which is more than what the existing contract offered. However the OMEC contract sees that officers get less meal break time and owe more shifts (26 per year) to their management. In addition officers can no longer claim for weekend premiums, and current serving officers on the old MGS contract wishing to transfer or apply for promotion will be moved onto the OMEC contract.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.unitetheunion.org/campaigns/protect-the-mod-guards|title = Protect the MOD Guards}}</ref> The MoD are currently not in a position to understand the MGS officer's concerns regarding the dispute which has led to officers in some areas taking industrial action.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gbc.gi/news/mod-security-guards-selective-industrial-action-due-tcs-dispute|title = MOD Guard Service OMEC Contract Gibraltar}}</ref>

===Touch pass protocol===
In August 2022 it was said that officers within the MGS at Devonport Dockyard may strike as the "touch pass protocol" was announced to be brought back after COVID-19 health and safety practices put a stop to it. It is said to be due to health and safety concerns.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/plymouth-news/devonport-dockyard-security-staff-could-7422643|title = MOD Guard Service Touch Pass Protocol| date=4 August 2022 }}</ref>

== Other organisations ==
[[File:MOD Guard Service with Space Command.jpg|thumb|MGS Ops Manager and CSO5 discuss with an RAF Flt Lt. from UK Space Command.]]
The MGS works alongside armed guard services—the [[Military Provost Guard Service]] in England, Scotland and Wales, and the [[Northern Ireland Security Guard Service]] (NISGS) in Northern Ireland. The [[Ministry of Defence Police]] (MDP) also work closely with the MGS, by providing an armed police service to the defence community and often act as the armed standoff or cover to the MGS whilst on guard.

The MGS also exist in within Germany as the [[Germany Guard Service]] (GGS previously CGSU (G)<ref name="MOD_Flashlight37" />)  similar to the afore mentioned NISGS.

==See also==
*[[Ministry of Defence Police]]
*[[Military Provost Guard Service]]
*[[Northern Ireland Security Guard Service]]
*[[Germany Guard Service]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{Official website|http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/WhatWeDo/SecurityandIntelligence/MDPGA/MinistryOfDefenceGuardServicemgs.htm}}

[[Category:Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)]]
[[Category:Security organizations]]
[[Category:Security guards]]