Pubwatch is the licensed trade's equivalent of Neighbourhood Watch. The basic principle involved in a Pubwatch is that the licensees of the premises involved agree on a number of policies of action against those individuals who cause or threaten damage, disorder, violence, use or deal in drugs in their premises. Normally this action consists of agreeing to refuse to serve individuals that cause, or are known to have previously caused, these sorts of problems. Having agreed these policies they then publicise them and stick to them. The publicity alone can have a very significant effect on such problems but refusing admission and service to those that cause trouble has proved to have a significant impact on anti-social behaviour.

To work most effectively any Pubwatch must work closely with the police, Local Authorities and other agencies. To have the most effective co-operation from these agencies in the form of the circulation of information and photographs it is important that an effective Data Protection Policy is in place at an early stage. Most Police Services are acutely aware of their responsibility under the Data Protection Act. They will be very quick to withdraw their co-operation in the event that persons' to whom they have released photographs or information abuse or misuse the information provided.

By joining a Pubwatch and having an effective policy in relation to persons causing problems, individual licensees can have an effect on the premises and the area. By working together and keeping problems outside their premises they will make it easier for the police to identify troublemakers and to deal with them. By the use of Exclusion Orders and banning, Licensees can ensure that the troublemakers remain outside.

For more information or to become a member of Pubwatch contact Claire McDaid on 028 7136 0169 or email claire@cciderry.com.