South Yorkshire Police have launched a new initiative across Barnsley in hopes of increasing safety for night venue visitors.
The scheme, based in the town centre, is expected to decrease numbers of criminal behaviour and public nuisance whilst focusing on protecting vulnerable customers.
The Licensing Security and Vulnerability Initiative (LSAVI) intends to improve security with the initiative in 16 venues that have signed up for it.
Adam Pumford, the owner of Funny Gals, one of the venues involved, and chairperson of Pub Watch, said: “We value our customers, and we want to increase their safety when they are with us in an all inclusive way.
“By working together with other night time economy bars through pub watch and Licensing SAVI, it naturally brings us together to be a collective.
Being part of the scheme means the premises have access to a digital self-assessment tool that allows them to help provide a secure service for guests.
Mr Pumford added: “Any additional training we can give our staff, and support we can receive from the police and partners is welcomed to achieve that.”
Alongside the self-assessment tool, there is a focus on preventing drug misuse and violent behaviour by installing lighting and CCTV in the areas.
Barnsley was chosen for the funding by GRIP, a programme that focuses on problem-solving initiatives in areas with higher reports of violent crimes.
Inspector of Barnsley Safer Neighbourhood Services Kieran Frain said: “I am pleased that bars and clubs across Barnsley are benefiting from the tools and resources available through Licensing SAVI.
“We want to increase everyone’s safety, whether they are living, working, or visiting Barnsley, and supporting venues to deliver a vibrant and safe night-time economy is important to us.
“Venues are working hard to raise the standard by achieving Licensing SAVI accreditation and this collective effort is creating a network of safer venues across the town which can only be beneficial for the prevention of crime and anti-social behaviour.”
Within Barnsley, 16 venues including Funny Gals, Secrets and Che Bar, are signed up to Licensing SAVI.