Stowmarket venue first in Suffolk to be accredited under Licensing Security and Vulnerability Initiative

An entertainment complex in Stowmarket has become the first in Suffolk to be accredited under the Licensing Security and Vulnerability Initiative.

The Maltings Entertainment Group, in Station Road East, which includes the Mill Restaurant & Bar, Carbon nightclub and Portman Malthouse Sports Bar, is the first venue in the county to successfully apply for the accreditation which is being supported by Suffolk Constabulary.

Participating venues are able to show they are responsible businesses that consider the welfare and vulnerability of their customers.

Launched in March 2021, The Licensing Security and Vulnerability Initiative (Licensing SAVI) ensures licensed premises are aware of and meet the standards required by responsible authorities in England and Wales. It was developed at the request of the Home Office and is backed by the National Police Chiefs Council.

Licensing SAVI provides advice and guidance for licensed premises to help raise standards and provide a safe, secure and welcoming environment.

A key objective is to ensure licensees demonstrate compliance with the Licensing Act 2003 and promote the four licensing objectives: prevention of public nuisance; prevention of crime and disorder; protection of children from harm; and public safety.

When seeking the accreditation, venues must show knowledge of correct procedures in a number of areas, including staff training, under-age sales policies, first aid, identifying vulnerable customers, banning protocols and drugs policies. The accreditation also supports venues by raising awareness of key issues, such as women’s safety and drink spiking.

Police and/or local authorities may choose to visit the venues to ensure procedures are being adhered to correctly and the accreditation remains correct.

Sergeant Daniel Peck, of the West Neighbourhood Partnership Team, said: “It’s great that those running The Mill Restaurant & Bar and the other bars at this venue have taken this opportunity to invest in their business and show that customer safety is a key consideration of their operations.

“Licensing SAVI is a fantastic tool, created by the Police Crime Prevention Initiative (PCPI), to help venues identify improvements they could make to their operation and highlight the good work they already do to keep people safe.”

Chief Superintendent Marina Ericson said: “I would like to congratulate The Maltings Entertainment Group on being the first in the county to receive the Licensing SAVI accreditation.

“I hope this is the first of many venues that sign up in Suffolk. I believe this initiative can only be a good thing for venues and their staff, to ensure everyone is aware of the proper guidance and procedures, which in turn benefits those that visit these establishments.”

Ian Shuttleworth, from Licensing SAVI, said: “Congratulations to Robert and the team on becoming the first venue in Suffolk to be accredited with our award. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Suffolk Constabulary and the local authorities across the county, in rolling out Licensing SAVI to more venues and in turn, helping contribute to the safety and the feeling of safety, within the night-time economy.

“We urge members of the public to start looking out for our star rating in windows of venues when you go out, in the knowledge that they have undertaken a thorough assessment, to look after your safety, security and deal with any vulnerability.”

Robert Parry, the owner and operator of the Maltings Entertainment complex, added: “I was thrilled when I heard about the Licensing SAVI and thought it was a great idea. The four licencing objectives are very important to us as we take pride in our customers safety. We are grateful for the Licensing SAVI scheme, it has benefited our venue, staff and customers.

For more information about the scheme visit www.licensingsavi.com