Partnership schemes praised in new Demos report

The report, published by independent think tank and research institute Demos, looks at three key aspects: underage drinking, binge drinking and the night-time economy, and dependent street drinkers.

The report, funded by the Association of Convenience Stores, says evidence suggests local partnership schemes can be successful in tackling the crime and disorder associated with binge drinking.

The report says pubs get a faster response from police when there are violent incidents, and can warn each other about troublemakers moving their way. The Metropolitan Police refers to statistics showing a decrease in violent offences across the areas where a pubwatch scheme is in operation.

Pubwatch​

National Pubwatch chairman Steve Baker said: "The fact that the Demos authors have highlighted the statistical decrease in violent crimes in Metropolitan Police areas where a pubwatch scheme is in operation is of no surprise to us.

"Earlier this year the Leeds Metropolitan University evaluation of Pubwatch showed the positive impact that schemes can have on crime occurring within licensed premises and the wider area. Pubwatch members play a major role in local partnerships, particularly building trust and communication between the pub and hospitality sector and the police."

Best Bar None​

The other successful scheme highlighted in the report is Best Bar None, which it claims helps discourage binge drinking. The schemes are co-ordinated by various partners including the police, local authorities and NHS. The Demos report quoted Government statistics showing the success of the scheme in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, and Durham in particular.

Best Bar None National Director, Simon Jackson, said: "We are delighted by the recognition of Best Bar None (BBN) within the Demos report highlighting the benefits of the BBN scheme. BBN strives to promote best practice within the NTE and drinks industry developing strong strategic partnerships."

The report does state that the on-trade has a higher test-purchase failure rate than the off-trade (69% pass in on-trade, 79% pass in off-trade).

Kate Nicholls, strategic affairs director at the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers, said: "This report is a vital contribution to the ongoing local debate about tackling alcohol-related harm.

"We welcome the recognition that these are no longer just on-trade issues and that the off-trade’s responsibility does not stop at point of sale. Indeed it points out that shops can learn from the management standards and street support that pubs and clubs already have in place."