For legal professional court users who routinely enter courts and tribunals, we offer fast track entry through the popular Professional Users Access Scheme (PUAS).
The membership scheme, first piloted in 2018, allows quicker access through security in our buildings for registered members.
How does the scheme work?
The scheme allows members to enter our buildings with a registered ID card, without needing a routine security search on each visit.
The scheme helps reduce delays on entry, with separate fast-access lanes for members available during the busiest times of the day. The scheme now has nearly 9,000 active users.
The PUAS has been introduced in sites that require an enhanced level of security clearance and we're working with legal organisations to complete the required processes.
Who runs the scheme?
Smart Citizen run the scheme and have maintained 100 per cent service availability. They make sure that any enquiries raised are answered or resolved within 24 hours.
We also work closely with professional organisations - including the Bar Council, Law Society, Criminal Law Solicitors Association and London Criminal Court Solicitors Association - whose members or staff participate in the scheme. They help us understand the needs of the legal profession and provide joint communications about membership requirements.
The scheme continues to run effectively, and we intend to extend the contract with Smart Citizen for the future.
