The importance of working together cannot be underestimated, writes Inspector Susan Gillon
WITH the festive period upon us once again I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your continued support in licensed premises across Scotland.
Restaurants, bars and clubs will see an increased footfall within their premises of people celebrating this fantastic time of year.
Police Scotland values the contribution licence holders and their staff play in keeping people safe throughout the year, particularly at this time when people are spending time with family and friends, enjoying themselves in your premises. Tackling issues is very much a partnership approach and you, as licence holders, are an integral part of that partnership.
Police Scotland, along with the National Licensed Trade Partnership (NLTP), promote best practice and would encourage premises to get involved with the Crime Scene Preservation and Counter Terrorism seminars hosted by the NLTP across the country.
If you haven’t heard of the NLTP and the important role it plays in promoting cohesive partnerships within the licensed trade, please contact your local Police Scotland licensing teams who will be able to provide you with further information.
During the festive period Police Scotland will promote public safety through the party safe strand of our ‘Keep Safe’ festive campaign.
Additionally, we provide vulnerability training to members of the licensed trade through the bystander approach in partnership with Best Bar None and the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit.
Police Scotland will increase the number of officers on the street and many will attend licensed premises; these officers are here to support you and I would encourage you to engage with them.
We all have a vital role to play in ensuring that members of the public celebrating the festivities are able to do so in a safe and healthy environment.
I ask that you ensure that you and your staff remain vigilant, monitor customers, be mindful of early intervention where appropriate to avoid escalation of incidents, and to contact police or emergency services at the earliest opportunity.
I can assure you that such positive actions do not go unrecognised.
Finally, can I take this opportunity to thank you all for your hard work and efforts over the last year.
I am sure by working together in partnership we can strive to further reduce crime and disorder and support the licensing objectives.
We hope you all get a moment to celebrate with family and friends. From us all at Police Scotland we wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
• Inspector Susan Gillon, Violence Prevention Licensing and Co-ordination Unit, Police Scotland.
