Safety messages highlighted in Tameside pubs in run up to Christmas

ANTI-DRINK spiking devices and bleed control kits were distributed to Tameside pubs and bars as part of Operation Nightsafe visits.

The operation, held on 22 November and led by Tameside Council licensing officers working in partnership with Greater Manchester Police, aimed to support licensees in the run up to the busy festive season while also highlighting key safety messages and conducting compliance checks.

More than 100 premises across the borough were visited – all received posters, beer mats and other materials highlighting the White Ribbon campaign encouraging men to stand together against violence against women and girls and the Ask for Angela scheme, which is a national scheme that helps anyone who is feeling vulnerable on a night out to get the support they need.

Venues deemed to be high risk were also supplied with anti-drink spiking devices and bleed control kits.

Officers also carried out checks to ensure premises were operating under the terms of their licenses. Most premises were found to be compliant, with any issues raised being followed up such as one venue where the licence had lapsed.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Environmental Services and Neighbourhood Cllr Laura Boyle, who joined the visits, said: “This is a busy time of year for our nighttime economy – there will be thousands of Tameside residents visiting local pubs and bars in the run up to Christmas. It’s great to be working closely with local businesses and our partners to reach local people with key safety messages and also to ensure premises are operating safely and within their licensing conditions to help protect the public. Thank you to everyone involved.”

For more information on the White Ribbon campaign see www.whiteribbon.org.uk

For more information on the Ask for Angela scheme see www.askforangela.co.uk