On Wednesday (17/7/13) Minister of State for Crime Prevention Jeremy Browne, speaking in the House of Commons, acknowledged the achievements of pubs and clubs, which have proved hugely effective in curbing irresponsible drinking. He singled out National Pubwatch and other best practice schemes for praise as good examples of what can be achieved when industry works in partnership with local areas. He stated the governments intention was to identify and work with a number of high-harm local alcohol action areas to strengthen partnerships, improve enforcement and increase good practice locally. National Pubwatch is already fully involved in working with other good practice schemes to identify and support local partnerships. There are many hundreds of local Pubwatch schemes which are already making a huge contribution to the safety of staff and customers in licensed premises and the wider area. The recent comprehensive National Pubwatch evaluation carried out by Leeds Metropolitan University showed that Pubwatches have a significant impact on crime and disorder and provides a meaningful forum for the exchange of information and intelligence between police and pub and hospitality trade. Steve Baker Chairman of National Pubwatch says Its important for the Home Office and other stakeholders to acknowledge that no-one is working in a vacuum or has sole claim to reducing crime and disorder. The only way to achieve sustainable long term reductions in alcohol harm in the night time economy will be for local licensees to have ownership of the problem. Pubwatch schemes have already demonstrated that they can provide the focus for multi-agency activity and a platform on which other good practice schemes can develop. If you would like more information on the work of National Pubwatch or would like to view the Leeds Metropolitan evaluation visit www.nationalpubwatch.org.uk
