Safeguarding children at licensed premises

This is an extract from a Practice Guide we have just published, see/download below.

The facts:

• The children of alcohol misusers are more likely to drink earlier and to experience behavioural problems and poor outcomes at school.
• Findings suggest a correlation between the availability of alcohol/density of off licence premises and alcohol related harm in young people. 
• Children who abuse alcohol are more vulnerable to sexual exploitation. 
• Legislation is in place to protect children from a range of risks at licensed premises including the sexual exploitation of children at pubs, night clubs or other venues where they may be vulnerable.

The risks to Children vary depending on the type of premises and what ‘licensable activities’ are taking place and whether the child is accompanied by a responsible adult. 

The risks may include:

• children being vulnerable to sexual or criminal perpetrators
• consumption of alcohol
• children witnessing or being involved in substance misuse
• anti-social behaviour
• bullying
• children who are unaccompanied
• children who lack appropriate supervision
• children involved in employment, entertainment or performance
• children witnessing or being involved with inappropriate or dangerous adult behaviour.

Social workers play a role in assessing licence applications, or providing intervention when issues arise at premises. When assessing risk, a number of factors should be considered e.g. whether colleagues in partner agencies have a view that the environment on the premises are unsafe or unsuitable for children and young people (for example, does the premises have a reputation for selling alcohol underage; do police records indicate significant incidents involving sexual exploitation, drugs or violence at the premises; has there been complaints about irresponsible management, noise nuisance).  This and other information should inform your response to licence applications or reviews. 

Download full Practice Guide

Useful Links:

• Safe. Sensible. Social. The Next Steps in the National Alcohol Strategy
• Safeguarding Children and Young People from Sexual Exploitation – Supplementary guidance to Working Together to Safeguard Children (2009)

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