Alcohol and Related Violence 

People who are affected by alcohol cause much of the behaviour that is unacceptable within the community. This is a national problem and not restricted to the Stafford Borough area. This can and often does result in violence.
  
Alcohol misuse, and the resultant violence is a problem that is not going to go away. It is therefore essential that we promote a course of education in schools to raise awareness of the dangers of Alcohol misuse and to prevent future problems. We must also look toward preventing violence through a combination of education and social engineering around the nigh time economy.

What is Pubwatch?

Pubwatch is a scheme set up and run by licensees to reduce crime and disorder in pubs and clubs. Supported by the police, it is a national initiative, which is proved to reduce violence and other types of criminal acts such as drug dealing and vandalism.

The scheme works by creating links between licensees, allowing information – such as the identity of troublemakers – to be passed quickly between each other and police. It also provides a forum where licensees can share problems and solutions.

There are a number of advantages for licensees joining the scheme, including:

• membership of Pubwatch deters troublemakers
• a reduced risk of licensees, staff and customers being assaulted or abused
• less damage caused to property and smaller repair bills
• it is good for trade – Pubwatch helps create a pleasant environment to work and socialise in

There are also advantages for the police, such as:

• Officers know more about potential trouble-makers and get better quality information which they can act upon
• by receiving more precise details in calls for assistance, police can make the best response
• violence in and around licensed premises reduce
• improving the working relationship between police and the licensed trade.

Safety Tips while out drinking

• never leave a drink unattended
• when going to the bar or toilet, leave a drink with a friend you can trust
• be wary of accepting drinks from strangers
• look out for friends when out and about in clubs and bars pace yourself and don’t drink too much, too quickly