Master Locksmiths Association MLA

25/06/2026

🌡️ Why does your uPVC door stick in hot weather?

MLA Tutor John Douglas explains that as temperatures rise, uPVC doors can expand slightly, affecting their alignment and making the locking mechanism feel stiff.

Before you force the key or handle, take a look at our guidance on why this happens and the steps you can take to avoid damaging your lock.

🔗 https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/faq/upvc-door-lock-mechanism-sticking/

24/06/2026

🌡️ With temperatures set to soar this week, we wanted to take a moment to remind locksmiths to look after themselves while working in the heat.

A few simple steps can make a big difference:

💧 Drink plenty of water throughout the day

🚐 Avoid spending long periods sitting in a hot van

⏰ Take regular breaks where possible

🧢 Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection

☀️ Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion

Your health and wellbeing are just as important as the jobs you attend.

Stay safe out there and take care of yourselves and your teams.

23/06/2026

A warm welcome to the latest locksmiths joining the Master Locksmiths Association as Personal Members.

Within Personal Membership, members can be recognised as either Registered or Qualified, reflecting different stages of their professional journey.

Registered Members have been vetted through DBS checks, references and peer approval.

Qualified Members have also demonstrated their skills and competence through a recognised locksmithing qualifications.

Together, Registered and Qualified Members help promote professionalism, competence, and trust across the locksmithing industry.

We'd like to thank our existing members for their continued support and wish our newest members every success as part of the MLA community.

If you've recently joined, don't forget to join the MLA Members Facebook Group to connect with fellow members and keep up to date with MLA news and opportunities.

Find out more about MLA membership at locksmiths.co.uk.

21/06/2026

🔑 KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

This Father's Day, we're celebrating the families behind the trade.

Across the UK, many locksmith businesses are built on knowledge, trust and skills passed from one generation to the next. Whether it's fathers and sons, fathers and daughters, husband and wife teams, or the next generation already showing an interest in locksmithing, family plays an important role in our trade.

📸 We'd love to see your stories.

Share a photo in the comments of your family locksmithing team, a parent who inspired your career, a family member who passed on their knowledge, or the next generation learning about the trade.

Happy Father's Day from the MLA.

20/06/2026

🍔 Firing up the BBQ?

Before you head into the garden, take a quick walk around your home and check that windows and doors are secure.

It's easy to become distracted when you're enjoying time outdoors, but opportunist thieves often look for simple ways into a property.

🔒 Don't let a break-in ruin your day.

More summer security tips:
https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/8-expert-tips-to-help-secure-your-home-this-summer/

19/06/2026

🔐 The South East Region had a fantastic evening at Leadbeater Locks, with a great turnout and plenty of catching up with familiar faces from across the region.

A big thank you to Martin and Faye for hosting and putting on a fantastic BBQ, as well as Burg-Wächter for bringing their Mobile Safe Showroom along and giving members the chance to get hands-on with the latest products.

The evening also included recognition of two membership milestones:

🏅 Mark Haines – 15 Years Personal Membership
🏅 Paul Etheridge – 45 Years Personal Membership

Congratulations to both Mark and Paul, and thank you for your continued support of the MLA over many years.

From the feedback we've received, the evening was a real success, with members appreciating the chance to get together, talk shop, see some new products and enjoy a good evening with fellow locksmiths.

Thanks to everyone who made it along, and to those who helped make the event happen.

📅 Next South East Region meeting: 20th August 2026.

18/06/2026

Vehicle lockout call?

Be ready to say yes.

Our 1 Day Auto Locksmith Course: Auto Lock Picking provides a practical introduction to vehicle entry for locksmiths looking to expand their services.

📅 23 July 2026

✔ Practical training
✔ Beginner friendly
✔ New opportunities

Find out more and book: https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/trade/training/auto-locksmith-courses/

17/06/2026

🔑 Women in Locksmithing Foundation Course

Whether you're considering a career in locksmithing or already support a locksmith business, this course is designed to build confidence through practical, hands-on learning.

✔ No previous experience required
✔ Supportive training environment
✔ Practical locksmithing skills

📅 9–10 July 2026

Know someone who might be interested? Share this post with them.

Find out more and book: https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/trade/training/womens-locksmith-course/

16/06/2026

A reminder that the South Eastern Region BBQ & Burg-Wächter UK & IRL is happening this Thursday (18th June 2026).

If you haven't confirmed yet please email Terry [email protected]

🔐 MLA South East – We’re Heading to Horsham! 🚐

Join us on Thursday 18th June at Leadbeater Locks for our next South East Region meeting — this time with an evening BBQ and a visit from the Burg-Wächter Mobile Safe Showroom.

Come and take a closer look at:
✅ Profi & Expert Safes
✅ Diplomat Black Edition safes with luxury modular interior
✅ Padlocks & SecuEntry smart locks

There’ll also be demonstrations, hands-on product sessions, and the chance to speak directly with Burg-Wächter about the range and latest developments.

A good opportunity to catch up with other locksmiths across the region and get hands-on with products increasingly being seen across the trade.

📅 Thursday 18th June
🕖 7:00pm start
📍 Leadbeater Locks, Unit 10 Jubilee Estate, Foundry Lane, Horsham, RH13 5UE

Nigel Clubb will also be bringing some stock along for sale on the night, so bring some cash with you.

If you’re planning to attend, please email Terry at:
📩 [email protected]

We look forward to seeing you there.

13/06/2026

A lockout can happen when you least expect it.

Before you head out, save the details of a trusted local locksmith.

🔐 Don't let a lockout ruin your day.

Find your local MLA Approved Locksmith:
https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/