Investigators from the Security Industry Authority along with Metropolitan Police officers and Croydon’s local authority officials checked 31 door staff working at 11 venues. All held valid SIA licences.
Jacquie Parker, an SIA head of investigation, said: “Croydon is known for having a buzzing night life, so it’s vital that door staff working at pubs and clubs are SIA licensed. As trained, vetted professionals they can effectively handle the busy crowds and help maintain public safety, which is paramount if members of the public are going to have a good night out.”
Continuation of partnership working
Parker continued: “I was very pleased with the results. This random inspection helps reinforce the message that the door supervision sector is largely compliant with the law. We will continue to work closely with our partners and plan further visits to licensed premises in Croydon in the future.”
Alan Goodall – the chief inspector for operations at Croydon Police – added: “We’re delighted with the high levels of compliance among SIA accredited door supervisors in Croydon. This validates all the hard work by the Council, the police and licensed premises managers in the area, which has led to a substantial reduction in crime and ensures that Croydon remains a safe place in which to live and work.”
Councillor Gavin Barwell (cabinet member for community safety and cohesion) added: “We are very pleased but not surprised that Croydon’s pubs and clubs take their licensing responsibilities seriously. Indeed, many of our pubs, bars and clubs are signed up to our Best Bar None scheme which has set new standards of excellence, offering managers the chance to prove they run safe and responsible venues.”
In conclusion, Barwell said: “We are delighted that pubs and clubs are keen to work with the council and the police to promote good practices and responsible behaviour, and make Croydon a more attractive and peaceful place to socialise.”
What the law says
By law, all door staff must hold a frontline SIA licence and display this while working. If they are employed directly by a venue as a staff member, rather than through a contractor, the manager must hold a non-frontline licence.
