Best Bar None announces Central Scheme

By Stuart Stone

- Last updated on GMT

New scheme: Best Bar None has extended its reach with the launch of its Central Scheme
New scheme: Best Bar None has extended its reach with the launch of its Central Scheme
Home Office-backed accreditation scheme Best Bar None (BBN) has extended its reach across England and Wales with the launch of its new Central Scheme (BBNCS).

Currently incorporating hundreds of venues across 70 towns and cities in the UK, BBN has been running for more than 15 years in partnership with the alcohol industry, police and local authorities to promote responsible alcohol consumption and higher licensing standards in participating pubs, bars and clubs.

The BBNCS seeks to offer accreditation to the wide range of licensed hospitality businesses sitting outside the geographical spread of current programmes.

The introduction of the scheme follows a number of trials in London and Cornwall. As with regional schemes, BBNCS premises will be audited by a team of BBN assessors – for operational standards, policies and procedures, as well as the education and training of staff – before achieving accreditation.

Upon completion of the audit, approved premises will join the BBN network.

Interesting challenges 

Best Bar None national co-ordinator Mick McDonnell commented: “The trial threw up some interesting challenges and not all premises were successful first time around. This only serves to demonstrate the high standards expected from operators and further endorses the credentials of belonging to a BBN scheme.

“BBNCS members go through exactly the same process as their counterparts in the town and city scheme; they will be required to evidence that they have policies, procedures and training records in place to deal with responsibilities such as age verification, the sale of alcohol, conflict management, and vulnerability.

“They will also need to demonstrate their health and safety competencies, insurance and maintenance contracts for fire detection systems and firefighting equipment.”

Rachael Gennard, general manager of the Red Lion in Newquay, who was involved with the pilot added: “It has been great to be part of a trial that will enable operators across the country to become part of the national BBN family.

“The meticulous and rigorous audit certainly highlighted to me the high standards expected, and the assessors' audit is a useful tool and business sense check. 

“It is great to now be able to join BBN and keep at the forefront of best practice and further develop relationships with like-minded licensed operators and local agencies.”

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