A 19-year-old girl from Leeds is breaking down stereotypes after leaving her job as a hairdresser to work in the security industry.
Abi Brook didn’t want a standard 9 to 5 job so she joined Professional Security five months ago and she now works as a door supervisor.
She had previously worked in a paint factory and as a hairdresser which couldn’t be more different to her current job.
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While she doesn’t look like your typical bouncer, Abi has years of playing rugby and is more than capable of handling herself.
Abi said: “People stereotype what and who a door supervisor actually is. I wanted to show people that no matter what gender you are, how big or small or how glamorous you are, anyone can work in security, and be good at it.
“The job appealed because there is something different every day and there are different situations to deal with. It’s not just about standing on doors and checking ID. You look out to help vulnerable people and make sure people are safe.”
Abi is now speaking out about working in the male dominated profession in the build up to International Women’s Day on March 8.
She said there’s a need for more female door staff as women as they are seen as more approachable and understanding.
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“I once helped break up an argument and one of the males asked me if I actually worked at the venue or if I had just come in here dressed like security to get in for free,” she added.
Leeds-based Professional Security has launched a Women Winning In Security initiative, with the aim to double the number of females deployed in frontline positions over the next three years.
Currently the company has over 9,000 frontline staff and only 10 per cent are women but they aim to double this by 2025.
The company’s Head of Talent, Dawn Hotchen, said: “Women bring a fresh approach to the traditional view of our profession. They are often calming influences and help to prevent problems escalating. The roles are so varied and offer flexible working, which appeals to many women.”
