As 2025 draws to a close, it feels right to pause and reflect on a year that has seen DHF continue to grow and flourish. It has been a year defined by achievement and collaboration, and by a tireless commitment to the people and industries it serves. From achieving ISO 9001 certification, to publishing the long-awaited Competence Framework and launching a pioneering new qualification, the Federation has continued to strengthen its foundations while looking confidently to the future.
The year began with a sense of excitement and possibility. In February, DHF hosted its first Members’ Conference at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, where more than 200 members and industry professionals gathered for a day of insight, discussion and connection. The event brought together a programme of workshops and speakers, including Dafydd Williams from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, who shared the government’s response to Grenfell, and Gillian McAteer from Citation, who offered invaluable guidance on employment law. A moving moment came from Flight Lieutenant, John Nichol, whose keynote address about his experience as a British prisoner of war during the Gulf War was both humbling and inspiring. Alongside the talks, an exhibition hall filled with leading names from across the sector created opportunities for collaboration and the sharing of knowledge that will carry forward into the year ahead.
In April, the launch of the ABBE Level 3 Award in Compliance and Safety of Fire Resisting Roller Shutter Doors marked a major milestone. Developed by DHF to strengthen competence within this highly specialised area, the qualification has already seen remarkable uptake from companies determined to uphold the highest standards of safety and compliance. It reflects DHF’s enduring mission to support professional growth and align industry practice with a focus on building safety and competence.
Another defining achievement came with the completion of the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Competence Framework for Doors, Gates and Shutters. Developed in close partnership with the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) and guided by the Sector Lead Group 10, the project represented eighteen months of careful collaboration and consultation. Led by DHF and ADSA, and supported by DHF’s Senior Training and Compliance Officer, Steve Hill, the framework establishes clear, practical standards for competence across installation, maintenance and servicing. For DHF members, this work has real impact. More and more organisations, for example, Amazon and Heathrow Airport, are now requiring evidence of individual competence for both installation and maintenance. The framework and accompanying National Occupational Standards help ensure DHF members can demonstrate the professional skill and assurance expected of them.
The summer brought one of the Federation’s proudest moments. DHF achieved ISO 9001 certification, confirming its position as an organisation that leads by example. This recognition of quality management and continuous improvement reinforces DHF’s reputation for professionalism and integrity in all that it does. In September, a further milestone followed with authorisation to provide Blue Skilled Worker cards for the Dock Leveller industry. This step has brought well-deserved recognition for individuals working in this specialist area and underlines DHF’s growing role in supporting competence and training across every corner of its sector.
Throughout 2025, DHF has remained close to its members and partners. The Federation attended key national events including The Security Event, The FIT Show, Fencex, and the MLA Expo, meeting members face-to-face, sharing updates and listening to feedback. The Federation also continued its proud sponsorship of the Automated Gate category at the AFI Awards, celebrating innovation and excellence within the fencing community. Member engagement has remained central to DHF’s purpose, with a series of members’ open days around the UK. One particularly meaningful initiative saw Steve Hill spend several weeks in Ireland, offering training and support to members across the Republic. His visit received outstanding feedback and further strengthened DHF’s ties with the Irish market.
While the year brought challenges, including increased National Insurance contributions and a slowdown in construction, the outlook among DHF members has remained encouraging. Many report steady order books and continued demand within commercial and industrial markets, a reminder of the sector’s resilience and its ability to adapt and thrive even when conditions are uncertain.
“No reflection on the year would be complete, of course, without recognising the people who make DHF what it is,” says DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “As the year draws to a close, DHF prepares to say farewell to Nick Perkins, whose knowledge and expertise have left a lasting mark on the industry. Nick’s retirement will be felt by colleagues and members alike, and he departs with the Federation’s gratitude and warmest wishes."
Earlier in the year, the Federation wished a fond farewell to Helen Skelding, whose calm professionalism and loyal service earned her the respect and affection of all who worked with her. The team was joined by Eddie Payne as Finance Manager, bringing fresh perspective and experience to support DHF’s continuing growth. Later in the year, Jason Smith moved on after many valued contributions, and the Federation welcomed Jonathan Colen as its first Commercial Manager, strengthening the organisation’s commercial insight and engagement. Within the Membership Department, Olivia Juxon began maternity leave in November, and we were delighted to welcome Charlotte Winsper to the team to ensure members continue to receive excellent support.
“As we move into 2026, DHF stands ready for the next chapter,” concludes Patricia. “With ISO 9001 certification achieved, the Competence Framework completed, the Level 3 Award launched, and authorisation secured to issue Blue Skilled Worker cards for the Dock Leveller industry, DHF has laid strong foundations for the future. The coming year will see the introduction of a new Ofqual-regulated training programme for the building hardware industry, extending DHF’s educational portfolio and offering a clear route to recognised qualifications. Above all, DHF remains committed to raising standards, supporting members, and strengthening the sector it proudly represents.”
www.dhfonline.org.uk
Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site
>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<
You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website
Low Cost and Free Publicity - Your company can easily benefit from some publicity like the posts above for a contribution towards our layout costs (£75 to £95 plus VAT), payable in advance or you can receive the service absolutely free of charge if you advertise (see below).
We post articles up to twice a day and never delete them - we only archive them each year so that they continue to remain visible to search engines.
To have your story published - just send us your news item, logo and image(s) and we will review the material, make any necessary changes to the wording / wordcount and then advise you when it will be published.
If you are a regular advertiser in our printed and online publications, placing series bookings for adverts or subscribing to our VIP Packages, you will qualify for a specific number of free postings on this blog while you continue to advertise with us. See our media pack for more details.
Also, if you purchase one of our Online and Print Combo packages, Featured Articles or Advertorial packages shown in our media pack, posting on this blog is included in the price.
For details and rates for all of our advertising options in print and online, download our media pack contact us or visit our website.
Door Industry Journal is a trading style of Clearview Group Limited - Company No. 06999111
No comments:
Post a Comment