Retired head of response policing helps develop online self assessment tool for pubs, clubs and restaurants re-opening after lockdown

An online self assessment crime prevention tool that helps licensed premises adhere to legislation and regulations has been developed by Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI), a police-owned organisation working on behalf of the service.

Licensing Security & Vulnerability Initiative (Licensing SAVI), brings together for the first time, the guidance, standards and advice that licensed premises need to meet the requirements of Responsible Authorities in England and Wales.

In doing so, using Licensing SAVI will help licensees demonstrate compliance with the Licensing Act 2003 and promote the four Licensing objectives: prevention of public nuisance; prevention of crime and disorder: protection of children from harm; and public safety.

Developed at the request of the Home Office and backed by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, Licensing SAVI seeks to reduce the risk of crime, help raise standards in licensed premises and provide consistent licensing information.

Contained in an online self-assessment, Licensing SAVI provides  information on effective management practices and operational security as well as some practical examples, which some licensed premises may not have considered before, including several new and improved security standards, which have been developed to address emerging criminal activity. It includes COVID-19 guidance.

Venues that complete the self-assessment will receive a Star-Rating. Licensees can then apply for Licensing SAVI Accreditation and an Award, which will show their Star-Rating and can be displayed at their premises to show the efforts undertaken to enhance safety.

Police CPI’s Mark Morgan became Business Lead for Licensing SAVI after retiring from his 30-year police career as a Merseyside Police Superintendent and Head of Response Policing last August.

Mark explained Licensing SAVI’s launch is timely because it provides information licensees need to develop a staff training package and could be included as part of a business recovery plan as licensed premises prepare to reopen as COVID-19 restrictions are eased.

“Licensed venues are likely to need to recruit new staff, reskill new and existing staff who may have been furloughed, and revisit their business plans for what could be a significant demand from customers,” said Mark.

“Licensees will be able to use Licensing SAVI year-on-year to prioritise business improvement and build on existing good practice as well as help improve their venue’s Star-Rating,” he explained.

Licensing SAVI will be rolled-out on a managed basis to police forces and local authorities within respective force areas.