Safeguarding the Night: Why Proactive Prevention is Key to a Thriving Nighttime Economy
The festive season is upon us, a time for celebration and merriment, often enjoyed in the vibrant atmosphere of pubs, clubs, and restaurants. But amidst the joy, it's crucial to remember the importance of safety and security within the nighttime economy. As Sir Robert Peel, the founder of modern policing, wisely stated, "The basic mission for which the police exist is to prevent crime and disorder." This principle remains as relevant today as it was in 1829, perhaps even more so given the evolving challenges of our times.
The demand on police forces is higher than ever, with increasingly complex incidents and the diverse needs of individuals and communities to consider. How can we maximise safety and prevent problems before they occur, especially within the bustling nighttime economy?
Meet Mark Morgan, a champion for safety in the night-time economy
Mark, who leads the Licensing Security and Vulnerability Initiative (Licensing SAVI) at Police CPI, brings a unique perspective to this challenge. A retired police officer with extensive experience in licensing and crime prevention, Mark has witnessed firsthand the impact of violence and harm associated with the nighttime economy. He's also a personal licence holder, a regular patron of pubs, bars, and restaurants, and has family members working in the industry. This multifaceted experience fuels his passion for supporting venues in creating safe and secure environments.
Partnership: The Cornerstone of Prevention
Mark firmly believes in the power of partnership. His experience in Liverpool, where he led a "designing out crime" initiative and contributed to the city earning an award for its safe and vibrant nighttime economy, underscores the importance of collaboration. By understanding the flow of customers, implementing preventative measures, and promoting responsible behaviour among staff and patrons, a safer environment can be created for everyone.
Sharing Information, Mitigating Risks
During his time in police licensing, Mark fostered strong relationships with industry stakeholders, facilitating information sharing and proactive risk mitigation. Annual conferences, joint partnership advice letters, and guest speaker presentations all played a role in raising awareness and providing practical guidance to venues.
Reporting: Breaking the Silence
Underreporting of crime, particularly in the nighttime economy, remains a significant concern. Victims may be hesitant to come forward due to embarrassment, fear of repercussions, or involvement in activities they'd rather keep hidden. However, reporting is crucial. It allows police and partners to understand trends, identify hotspots, and implement effective responses. Building trust between venues and authorities is essential for successful crime prevention.
Working Together for a Safer Future
The key takeaway? Collaboration is paramount. By working together – police, venues, staff, and patrons – we can create a safer and more enjoyable nighttime economy for everyone. As we head into the festive season, let's prioritise safety and ensure that our celebrations are memorable for all the right reasons.
Find out more about Licensing SAVI
Find out more at Licensing SAVI, the police backed security initiative for licensed premises which captures in one place, the wider legal requirements, design, good working practices, trade initiatives, security and technology attributed to meeting the licensing objectives.