Doorstaff urged to confiscate dodgy ID
Doorstaff are being urged to confiscate ID that is used by under-18s to try to buy alcohol.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA), which regulates doorstaff, has agreed to take part in a Home Office campaign to crackdown on the problem.
It's recognition that doorstaff are able to confiscate ID if they have a procedure for dealing with the documents - the question had been open to debate.
It also represents a victory for the PASS (proof of age standards) scheme because the SIA has also agreed to include awareness of the scheme on its doorstaff training courses. PASS had previously complained that doorstaff often didn't recognise accredited cards.
The initiative, in association with PASS, advises young people that if they are caught using fake ID, or ID that's owned by someone else, they could have it confiscated and may be prosecuted.
The SIA is urging door supervisors to confiscate false ID and hand them over to the police, who will then return the documents to the relevant authority.
Baroness Ruth Henig, chairman at the SIA said: "We are advising licensees and door staff to help ensure fake or false IDs are confiscated and handed to the police.
"Trained and professional SIA-licensed door supervisors play an important role in creating a safe environment for the public when visiting pubs and clubs across the UK.
"Door staff can also contribute to reducing under-age drinking. Our approved door supervisor training ensures door supervisors are made aware of the PASS scheme."
PASS chairman Robert Humphreys added: "This campaign is timely and most welcome.
"Many underage young people often see getting past door staff or being served as something of a game, but for those responsible for enforcing the law it's no joke - in fact a mistake can easily cost them their jobs and even get them a criminal record.
"The clarity of the message is vital - attempting to break the law is unacceptable and could get you in serious trouble."
The fake ID posters can be downloaded from the Home Office website:
