While there are many reputable investigators and professionally run firms in the country, it can be difficult to know who you can trust. And you are putting a lot of trust in whichever company you instruct – trust that they will act with discretion, within the law and in your best interests; trust that they will secure and protect your data; trust that there is available recourse if something goes wrong.

In the absence of a regulator, the onus to prove trustworthiness is on us. With that in mind, we opted to comply with certain recognised standards and to join selected trade associations as proof that we are a business you can trust.

Some information about those certifications and memberships is included below.

The certifications we hold and our principal’s membership of the UK’s foremost investigations trade body, the Association of British Investigators, rely on us providing documentation and evidence on an annual basis. Additionally, we welcome scrutiny of our working practices by you as a client or potential client. We are always willing to complete supplier questionnaires and have submitted to client audits.

If you require further information about anything mentioned on this page or about our company more generally, please email compliance@esarisk.com and we will be happy to assist you.

Certifications

ISO 9001

ISO 9001 is an international standard for quality management. We have achieved UKAS-accredited certification in ISO 9001:2015 (the latest standard). Certification is subject to annual assessments by a UKAS-accredited certification body.

This certification reflects our commitment to quality, professionalism and the continual improvement of all parts of our business.

What it means for you

Work with us safe in the knowledge that:

• A commitment to quality is at the heart of our business and we are always looking for ways to improve further.
• We are legally compliant and appropriately insured.
• Your feedback is important to us and shapes the way we deliver our services.
• Complaints are handled in a professional manner, following a set procedure.
• Everyone you interact with at ESA Risk is competent in their role and receives relevant training and education.
• All potential instructions are evaluated against a set of criteria to ensure that we can deliver the service you require to a high standard.

Verify our ISO 9001 certification >

ISO 27001

ISO 27001 is an international standard for information security management. We have achieved UKAS-accredited certification in ISO/IEC 27001:2022 (the latest standard). Certification is subject to annual assessments by a UKAS-accredited certification body.

This certification reflects our commitment to information and data security across the business. One of the requirements of the standard is that we implement nearly 100 information security controls.

What it means for you

Work with us safe in the knowledge that:

• Your data and any data or information you share with us will be kept secure and confidential.
• Subcontractors and other suppliers we engage are evaluated and risk-assessed with information security in mind – you can trust us and our supply chain.
• Risks to the security of data we store are continually identified, assessed and treated.
• Information security events are addressed quickly and following a set procedure, which includes informing you if your data is affected.
• Business continuity plans are in place, ensuring we can continue to service your requirements in scenarios where our normal working practices are impacted.

Verify our ISO 27001 certification >

Memberships

Association of British Investigators

The Association of British Investigators (ABI) is the leading force behind self-regulation of the investigative sector in the UK. The association works closely with bodies such as the Law Society of England and Wales and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

Mike Wright, CEO of ESA Risk, has been a full member of the ABI for over 30 years and was previously named their Investigator of the Year. Membership is tied to individuals, but certain elements are company-wide, such as the requirement to hold appropriate insurance and the use of default member-to-member terms.

What it means for you

• ABI membership gives us access to a UK-wide network of trusted partners to assist us with field work. The use of local ABI agents keeps costs lower while maintaining high standards.
• Know that you are instructing a professional firm: insurance checks are carried out annually and DBS checks are undertaken every 2 years.
• Work with a partner that is up to date with relevant legislation: the ABI provides guidance and training on the latest developments in areas such as data protection.
• You have recourse through the ABI if something goes wrong and we cannot resolve it through our own complaints procedure.

View Mike Wright’s ABI membership details >

World Association of Detectives

The World Association of Detectives (WAD) is an international organisation which brings together investigators from around the globe. Its core aim is “to promote and maintain the highest ethical practices in the profession”.

Our CEO, Mike Wright, is a longstanding member and an England Ambassador of WAD.

What it means for you

• WAD membership gives us access to a worldwide network of trusted partners to assist with overseas assignments. The use of in-region agents with local knowledge and ‘boots on the ground’ means our reach – and therefore yours – is truly global.

View a list of WAD ambassadors >