Facilitate in focus

News

What we’ve reported on

There are now three security operatives to every one police officer, according to chair of the S12 Security Guarding Leadership Group Paul Evans. The potential to provide real social value and improve standards across the sector is huge. We spoke with Paul about the group, which was launched by the security minister in October last year. 

https://www.facilitatemagazine.com/2026/01/28/security-group-aims-unite-guarding-industry-raise-pro… 

Data is a hot topic for the sector and FM service provider Platinum Facilities recently took on a head of data-led maintenance and analytics. Rare for its size, which made us ask the question: can mid-market service firms typically compete with national and multinational service providers for these specialist roles? Read about it here. 

https://www.facilitatemagazine.com/2026/01/26/smaller-fms-battle-against-large-counterparts-data 

What we’re working on

We were reminded recently of how an old Debenhams' building set for demolition was repurposed as a 'meanwhile space' into a community-minded, open-to-all skate park. The Facilitate team thought that was pretty cool (or rad or tubular) so we're working on a feature on this very topic. What do meanwhile spaces mean for the sector? What are the opportunities and challenges? If you have experience with this, get in touch with Brad, our deputy editor at [email protected].

We’re also finalising our interview with a particularly impressive FM professional working at the top of their game. Big responsibilities, big budgets showing just how impactful the WFM function can be. We won't tell you who that is just yet.

As we learn more about the brain and how those who are neurodivergent respond to certain stimuli and triggers, we see what a powerful role the built environment and the professionals who shape it can play. We're looking forward to sharing an article with you in the upcoming edition about neuroarchitecture.

If you read one Facilitate piece…

We recently published an article by Ishaaq Auleear of the HHS Group on the changing model of security in social housing and temporary living situations. Rather than the traditional uniformed security officer, there has been a shift towards the corporate-attired concierge. The results have been significant, with reduced incidents of vandalism and better relationships between residents and service providers. The soft touch hospitality skills are key here.

https://www.facilitatemagazine.com/2026/01/27/enforcement-empathy-how-concierge-model-replacing-tra… 

Where we could use your help

As we mentioned last time, our goal for this year (well every year really) is to see how we can progress the discussion around some of the sector’s most intractable arguments. Think of this as everything from sustainable business management to sustainable profit margins and all of the people-related issues in between.

As ever, if you’d like to point us towards a topic you think deserves more attention, we’ll happily listen to your suggestions - drop us a line at [email protected]