UK's First University Bar Receives SAVI Accreditation
In a bid to improve safety procedures in bars, pubs, and nightclubs across the UK, Durham's South College bar has set an exemplary standard by becoming the first university bar in the country to achieve the 5* Licensing SAVI (Security and Vulnerability Initiative) accreditation.
A YouGov survey revealed that three out of four adults are calling for improved safety procedures following the national publicity around the safety of women and girls. This surge in demand for change has prompted many university bars to reevaluate their safety policies and procedures.
The Licensing SAVI accreditation is a significant step towards ensuring a safe and secure environment for managers, staff, customers, and local communities. This accreditation brings together information from official sources, including Police, Licensing Authorities, and the Fire and Rescue Services.
South College's achievement in obtaining the 5* Licensing SAVI accreditation has inspired other college bars to apply for the accreditation. Four more Durham bars have now signed up, demonstrating a growing commitment to safety in university bars.
The star-rated award scheme indicates to the public that a venue runs a safe and secure premises. The accreditation process is a simple way for venues to demonstrate their commitment to safety.
The South College bar’s Licensing SAVI accreditation likely reflects additional focus on safety standards, particularly regarding harassment and violence prevention. Key approaches include specialized training and accreditation, clear anti-harassment policies, alcohol management controls, discreet support initiatives, and community and university liaison.
Durham enforces minimum pricing policies, prohibits promotions encouraging excessive drinking, and incorporates Best Bar None accreditation and Pub Watch membership. These measures help reduce alcohol-related vulnerabilities by promoting responsible consumption and safe social environments.
Innovative schemes like “Ask for Angela” allow patrons who feel unsafe to discreetly seek staff help to leave or get support. Training bar staff to recognize and respond appropriately to harassment or discrimination, including in LGBTQ+ contexts, enhances patron safety significantly.
Amy Shuttleworth, JCR Vice-President at South College, states that going through the accreditation process has improved the way their bar runs and is making students feel safe in their College space. The accreditation process provides templates for venues to review and improve their safety procedures, ensuring a continuous focus on safety and security.
Safety is a top priority at Durham, and the Licensing SAVI accreditation provides an extra layer of reassurance for students in college bars. Relevant documentation and resources are available to promote the Licensing SAVI scheme to customers. South College provided feedback on their application to help shape the process for future university bars applying for the Licensing SAVI accreditation.
University bars across the UK can follow Durham's lead in improving safety procedures regarding women's safety by adopting comprehensive, multi-layered strategies like those implemented by Durham's South College bar. These strategies create a culture where harassment and violence are minimized, and all students feel supported and protected in social venues.
