The schemes are local, voluntary organisations created by licensees to discuss and prevent anti-social behaviour and criminal activity within licenced premises.
An awards dinner will be hosted in the House of Lords on Tuesday 21 October.
Last year’s winner was the Chesterfield Pubwatch, which was praised for its strong partnership with local police and Chesterfield Borough Council.
Safe environments
Chesterfield Pubwatch chair Roger Butler said: “The win has changed things dramatically. It has raised our profile highly and we have been able to get funding through the police, which is very hard to get.”
A 2025 research study, conducted by Leeds Beckett University, showed 86% of licensees, staff, and local authorities believed Pubwatches helped to create safe, social drinking environments.
More than half of those surveyed reported they had witnessed a decrease in alcohol-related disorder and anti-social behaviour since the introduction of a Pubwatch scheme.
Since its creation in 1997, the National Pubwatch Organisation has assisted in the creation of more than 600 new schemes.
There are currently more than 800 schemes registered with the organisation and they strive to increase national coverage to further prevent instances of crime and anti-social behaviour.
Great opportunity
National Pubwatch chair Steve Baker OBE said: “These awards promote good practice and recognise those Pubwatches and publicans that are working hard to provide safe and responsible drinking environments.”
“This is a great opportunity to promote the work of a local Pubwatch scheme while receiving recognition at a national level.”
Earlier this year, National Pubwatch recognised multiple individuals within the late-night hospitality sector for their bravery and support for the organisation.
Applications for the 2025 National Pubwatch Awards, which are sponsored by JD Wetherspoon (JDW), close on Friday, 15th August 2025. Apply for the National Pubwatch Awards here.
