The UK’s National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) has released new guidance designed to support individuals at heightened risk (including public figures, executives, and those of significant wealth) in enhancing the security of their private residences.

For Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs), the release of the NPSA advice could not be more timely. With targeted crimes and cyber-enabled threats now commonplace, set against a backdrop of dwindling police resources and non-attendance to some crimes, residential properties present a major vulnerability. The NPSA’s guidance underscores the importance of layered, protective security tailored to individual risk profiles.

Your Home is your Castle – Why Residential Security Is Essential

For UHNW individuals, residential security has always been a priority, with a Residential Security Team (RST) considered to be the ‘silver bullet’ to assuring home security. RST’s are indeed a valuable addition and countermeasure to some residential crime types, but in the face of today’s unpredictable and unseen threats, expert guidance and precision security planning has become vital. Criminal tactics continue to evolve, blending physical intrusion with social engineering, insider threats, and digital surveillance.

A high-value property in a desirable postcode is not just a marker of wealth; it can also signal opportunity to those with malicious intent.

Key Takeaways from the NPSA Guidance

The NPSA advocates for a holistic, risk-based approach to personal security. It points out that we all as individuals are responsible for our own security and should consider our own situational awareness in our day to day lives. This includes sound advice on how we consider our habits and routines, and how we move around and interact in places, and with people.

Physical Security Measures

Reinforced doors, access control systems, perimeter lighting, and monitored CCTV are essential but should form part of a broader layered defence model. Consideration should be given to a viable ‘safe-room’ in which a family and staff can retreat to, to escape the threat and await help.

Behavioural Awareness

Residents and household staff must be alert to unusual activity or surveillance, particularly around travel patterns and deliveries.

Cyber and Technical Resilience

Increasingly, attackers seek digital entry points. Secure networks, regular vulnerability testing, and encrypted communications are no longer optional.

Insider Risk and Staff Vetting

Trusted individuals often have access to sensitive spaces, schedules, and information. Comprehensive background checks, vetting, ongoing monitoring, and discretion protocols are vital.

Contingency Planning

Emergency protocols must be clearly defined, tested, and understood by all members of the household. This could include the testing and exercising of safe-room use in a property

We Help UHNW Clients Implement These Standards

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. While the NPSA guidance provides a strong national benchmark, our role is to translate that into personal, discreet, and effective solutions for each client’s unique environment and lifestyle.

From conducting residential security audits to deploying smart surveillance technology and discreet personal security teams, we align protective strategies with your daily life without compromising comfort or privacy.

Next Steps: Discreet Risk Consultation

GSA Global stands ready to help UHNW individuals, their families and staff align with the new NPSA guidance through confidential risk reviews, bespoke implementation, training and ongoing protective services.

Contact us today to schedule a review or learn more about our bespoke residential security solutions.

Link to new NPSA guidance: Home Security Systems | Personal Safety & Security for High-Risk Individuals | NPSA