Police and partners promote responsible licensing in Suffolk

Suffolk Police and partners have today, Wednesday 8th May, launched an information pack for licensed premises.

The Licensee Support Pack’ has been put together by police, district and borough councils, Suffolk County Council, National Pubwatch and the Best Bar None scheme. It was created after consultation with members of the licensing trade, and is designed to assist retailers in responsible retailing and best practice.

The pack was launched to representatives from the licensed trade and partner agencies this morning at the Kingfisher Pub in Ipswich.

As part of Suffolk’s response to the national alcohol strategy, all agencies involved are committed to ensuring that communities are kept safe and that through the appropriate regulation of alcohol licensing, crime and disorder linked to alcohol is minimised.

The packs will be provided to licensed premises and will provide examples of best practice and practical documents to assist with legislation.

Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said, “These packs are an excellent way in which we can make it as simple as possible for our licensed premises to comply with legislation and to act as responsible retailers.

“Well-run pubs and retailers are an important part of our communities, which provide employment and social venues, and we want to make sure that we do all we can to work with these businesses in reducing any harm or disorder that can result from the consumption of alcohol.

“This is a small part of the raft of licensing initiatives we have ongoing in the county. Through the Licensee Support Pack, ‘Pub Watch’, ‘Best Bar None’ and ‘Reducing the Strength’, we are creating a successful partnership with our retailers, with the primary concern of protecting communities.”

He added, “Successful business is central to a vibrant economy and I believe we must all play our part to help create a thriving community, so I am pleased to be working with the police and local authorities to encourage responsible licensing.”

Chairman of Ipswich Bar Watch, Adrian Smith said, “I believe the licensee support pack will be a valuable tool to any new licensee to the town.

“Not only does it provide all the contact and legal information but also what we expect of them to help ensure we can work together to promote a responsible and safe town.

“Suffolk Constabulary, Ipswich Borough licensing department and Ipswich Bar Watch have again shown that in partnership working with initiatives like this and Best Bar None we can meet the demands put on the licensed trade, make our town vibrant yet safe and achieve accolades such as the Purple Flag”

Pictured l-r: Tim Newcomb, Assistant Chief Constable; Russell William, Chief Executive Ipswich Borough Council;  Julie Ridgeon Licensee at the Kingfisher; Rob Pooley of Bowmans in Ipswich who is the Vice Chair of BarWatch and Tim Passmore, Suffolk PCC.