National Pubwatch and Drinkaware launch vulnerability training partnership

National Pubwatch is partnering with Drinkaware to provide members with free access to the alcohol education charity’s alcohol vulnerability awareness course to support the re-opening of the sector.

The e-learning course equips bar and venue staff with the ability to identify alcohol related vulnerability, including how to spot harassment, and take steps to help prevent customers from coming to harm. 

Adam Jones, Drinkaware’s director of business development and partnerships, said: “Supporting front line staff to keep customers from harm has never been more important which is why we’re delighted to announce this initiative.  We must strive to ensure venues are safe for everyone including all employees who are integral to the success of a vibrant and enjoyable night-time economy.”

The course includes:

• What vulnerability means and what makes a person vulnerable to harm 
• How to spot harassment and how to help customers who have experienced harassment
• How to act in situations involving vulnerable people

The free training is available to all sites and establishments who are Pubwatch scheme members regardless of size or location. Accessing the course is simple and direct through the Pubwatch website.

Stephen Baker OBE, National Pubwatch’s chairman said: ‘’Pubwatch schemes are leading the way in ensuring high standards are maintained in all areas of the operation. Most importantly people should be able to enjoy a good night out safely and responsibly without fear of being a victim of crime. Partnership initiatives such as this are designed to enhance the support customers receive from venues actively seeking to drive out crime.”

To enquire about alcohol vulnerability awareness e-learning for yourself or your staff, email elearning@drinkaware.co.uk

Notes to editor

About National Pubwatch:

• National Pubwatch was set up in 1997 as a voluntary organisation by three founders Raoul De Vaux, a licensee and magistrate, Malcolm Eidmans, a former police chief superintendent and licensee Bill Stone.
• Its key aim is to help achieve a safe, secure and social drinking environment in all licensed premises throughout the UK.  National Pubwatch now supports over 800 Pubwatches across the UK.
• In 2013, a survey conducted by Dr Alex Kenyon at Leeds Metropolitan University, surveyed nearly 1,200 licensees, councillors and police representatives and found that almost two-thirds said that their local Pubwatch scheme contributed to a decrease in the amount of alcohol-related violence in their premises and local area. While 94% said it was important for National Pubwatch to offer support and advice for new schemes, an equal percentage said it was important in providing ongoing support.