Imagine a night out where you feel truly safer and more secure, knowing that the venue you're in has taken every measure to protect its patrons and staff. This is the vision driving Licensing SAVI, a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by Mark Morgan, a retired police officer with a deep-rooted passion for creating safer social spaces.
Meet Mark: A Champion for Safer Socialising
Mark's journey is unique. As a former police superintendent, he has been involved in tackling crime and disorder in licensed premises throughout his career. But he's also a personal licence holder, a regular at various licensed premises, and a father whose children work in the industry. This multifaceted perspective gives him invaluable insight into the challenges and opportunities within the night-time economy.
Licensing SAVI: A Self-Assessment Tool with Real Impact
Developed by Police Crime Prevention Initiatives at the request of the Home Office, Licensing SAVI is a digital self-assessment tool designed to empower licensed premises to take control of their safety and security. By raising awareness of good practice and recognised standards, it helps venues reduce the risk of crime and create a more secure environment for everyone.
The Benefits Speak for Themselves
Since its implementation, Licensing SAVI has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback. Venues appreciate the user-friendly system, the valuable content, and the opportunity to learn and implement practical safety measures. But the impact goes beyond anecdotal evidence:
- Improved Safety: Research shows a 74% improvement in safety for patrons and staff at participating venues
- Crime Reduction: South Wales Police report a 30% reduction in sexual assault and assault with injury, and a 23% reduction in drunk and disorderly behaviour at venues using Licensing SAVI. New research outlines the positive effects of Licensing SAVI on crime in Telford’s Night Time Economy, indicating a 24% decrease in violence with injury offences and a 17.9% reduction in reported incidents on premises
- Perceptions of Safety: The initiative has also had a significant impact on perceptions of safety. An impressive 68% of survey respondents in the Telford research expressed increased confidence in the safety of staff, and 74% felt more assured about the safety of patrons. Such confidence is crucial in fostering an environment where both employees and patrons feel secure and valued
Looking Ahead: Continuous Improvement and Wider Recognition
The team behind Licensing SAVI is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring the platform remains up-to-date with the latest technology, legislation, and best practices. Recent updates include a counter-terrorism question set to prepare venues for Martyn's Law and guidance on staff safety, particularly for those traveling home late at night.
Ultimately, Mark envisions the Licensing SAVI logo becoming a symbol of safety and security in the night-time economy, a recognised standard that reassures patrons and staff alike.
Join the Movement for Safer Socialising
Licensing SAVI is more than just a tool; it's a movement towards a safer and more enjoyable night-time economy. By embracing this initiative, venues can demonstrate their commitment to safety, reduce the risk of crime, and contribute to a vibrant and thriving social scene.
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.