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Important Notice: Closure of Licensing SAVI

Since our launch, Licensing SAVI has been proud to support thousands of venues across England and Wales in raising safety standards and reducing vulnerability within the night-time economy.

The initiative has operated for five years however, after review, is to close with effect from 30 April 2026.

·       Effective closure date: 30 April 2026

·       Existing accreditations: If a venue is currently accredited their Licensing SAVI accreditation status remains active for the remainder of their one-year accreditation period, with access to all assets. However they will not be able to renew their accreditation once it expires

·       New applications: We will not be accepting new accreditation applications from venues

Who to Contact Now:

·       For Licensing SAVI specific queries: Please contact 

·       For licensing advice & safety concerns: Please contact your local Police Alcohol Licensing Officer (PALO)

·       For regulatory or statutory enquiries: Please contact your Local Authority Licensing Team

What is Licensing SAVI?

Licensing SAVI is a police-backed initiative which works to deter and reduce crime in licensed venues. It seeks to provide safer and more secure venues for customers and local communities.

Licensing SAVI was developed by Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI) at the request of the Home Office. A YouGov survey commissioned by Police CPI in September 2021 found that high numbers of people, particularly women, wanted improved safety in bars, pubs, and nightclubs, with up to 50% stating they would be more likely to visit a venue that achieved a police award for safety.

The initiative covers critical issues like responsible drinking, drugs misuse, violent behaviour and safeguarding vulnerable customers, through to preventing opportunist theft and improving physical security, such as lighting and CCTV.

Managers and staff who take part in Licensing SAVI carry out a comprehensive checklist of safety and security features in their venue and receive advice and guidance for improvement. This can include training and policies for staff, and introduction of other police-approved schemes such as ‘Ask for Angela’.

For safer nights out, look for the stars:

stars

 

 

 

 

 

More information:

Three out of four adults want improved safety in bars

50% of adults would be more likely to visit a bar if it had a police award for safety