Durham University Bars Receive National Safety Award

Fourteen of the university’s sixteen student bars have now received the support of the Licensing Security and Vulnerability Initiative (Licensing SAVI) after demonstrating their high standards of security and protection.

The initiative, developed under the UK’s Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (PCPI), aims to help licensed premises provide a safer environment for their employees, customers and local communities.

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As part of the program, bar owners receive personalized advice and recommendations, including how to work closely with authorities to comply with licensing regulations. the prevention of crime and civil unrest, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.

Durham University’s South College Bar received the country’s first five-star LSAVI earlier this year.

Two of the newest bars to receive accreditation are the Junior Common Room (JCR) Bar at St Chad’s College and the Collingwood College Bar.

It is hoped that the scheme can now be extended to private bars in Durham to ensure consistently high standards across the city.

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Congratulating all the bars on their successful accreditation, Police and Crime Inspector Joy Allen said, “This is a phenomenal achievement and would not have been possible without the support and enthusiasm of Durham University and its bar operators.”

“I cannot stress enough how important and reassuring this accreditation is for parents and the students themselves. Accrediting so many bars in such a short time is a real achievement and I would like to thank everyone for supporting this initiative.

“We already know our city is a safe and fun place to be, but this accreditation really proves it.”

Charlotte Sikorski, Attorney General of St Chad’s College JCR Bar, said: “Receiving this accreditation is a testament to our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and reflects our ongoing commitment to student welfare.

“This opportunity for self-reflection on our processes and training has been incredibly helpful in identifying our strengths and identifying where improvements can be made.”

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Licensees who successfully complete the self-assessment receive a star rating and can then apply for SAVI accreditation for licensing, as well as an award that can be displayed on the premises, showing management’s efforts to provide a safe environment for customers.

Licensees can use their star rating as a benchmark to further improve their security and achieve a higher star rating year after year to grow their business.

The program was launched following a YouGov poll which found that three out of four adults would like to see improved safety procedures in bars, pubs and nightclubs, following campaigns nationwide for women’s and girls’ safety.