Best Bar None scheme relaunches in Bolton

Last night (Wednesday 19 April) we relaunched the Best Bar None scheme in Westhoughton, Bolton following on from its successful launch in the town centre back in 2017.

Bolton’s efforts received national recognition for both ‘New Scheme’ in 2018 and the ‘Most Innovative’ scheme at the Best Bar None Awards at the House of Lords in February 2020.

The award was presented to the regional scheme that developed the most creative concept or initiative designed to make a difference in the local area.

It has achieved this by introducing initiatives like Ask for Angela - where customers can discreetly alert trained staff if they are feeling threatened on a night out – and Get Home Safe (#GHS), which reminds people to always use a licensed taxi.

The scheme is set to expand in Bolton, with premises from Farnworth and Horwich now applying to be part of the scheme. Licensees from across the borough joined police and local authorities at The Bank on Market Street on Wednesday evening.

Bolton’s Chief Inspector Justine Topping hosted the event along with Bolton Council and welcomed guest speakers from Best Bar None and Mark the owner of The Bank who highlighted the benefits of Best Bar None to other licensees.

The scheme is a Home Office backed initiative that sees the police, local authorities and bar and club owners work together to reduce alcohol-related harm. Initially launched in Manchester in 2003, the scheme focuses on improving professionalism and standards of training, as well as creating new ways to maximise safety and welfare.

Best Bar None provides a framework for premises to improve and in turn creating a safer and more enjoyable place for visitors and staff of Bolton. 

This event starts the process and provides a timeline for the next 12 months. Premises across the borough have already started to sign up to the process and will start to prepare for their assessment which will be conducted by an independent Best Bar None approved assessor.

Chief Inspector for Bolton Justine Topping said: “I am delighted to be rolling out the Best Bar None scheme in Westhoughton after its success in the town centre.

“Violent crime in bars and pubs in the town centre were reduced by more than 30 per cent in its first year, underlining how effective the scheme can be.

“The interest is high this year and this is one of the main reasons for extending the Best Bar None scheme into the surrounding areas of the Bolton.

“We look forward to seeing the development in premises across the borough, all of which will help customers enjoy a safe, vibrant night out in the area.”