Safety thirst returns to the City
Licensed establishments within the Square Mile are invited to seek accreditation for the Safety Thirst initiative by the City of London Corporation. This program promotes best practices and heightens the safety of patrons at these venues. The current year’s initiative has broadened its criteria to cover aspects like counter-terrorism, drink spiking, women’s safety, sexual harassment, and suicide prevention, addressing key concerns for the UK’s nightlife industry.
Invitations for accreditation will be dispatched to bars, pubs, clubs, restaurants, and event venues by mid-March, with assessments scheduled for April, May, and June. Upon successful completion of a ‘commended’ or ‘highly commended’ assessment, the management teams of these venues will be invited to an awards ceremony at The Mansion House in July, where they will receive a certificate to showcase at their establishments. The accreditation is valid for one calendar year, and businesses are encouraged to reapply annually.
Accredited venues stand to benefit from a 30% discount on the City’s late-night levy, applicable to all alcohol-selling venues between midnight and 6 am any day of the week.
Launched in 2006 and executed in collaboration with the City Corporation, City of London Police, and the London Fire Brigade, the Safety Thirst scheme, last conducted in 2019, was paused during 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID pandemic. It remained on hold during 2022 and 2023 to facilitate the recovery of City businesses from the financial repercussions of the pandemic.
James Tumbridge, Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Licensing Committee, expressed anticipation for a surge in accreditation applications after the scheme’s five-year hiatus. He highlighted Safety Thirst’s significance in emphasizing the City Corporation’s commitment to safety in the night-time economy while recognizing licensed venues for their contributions to reducing crime, anti-social behavior, and excessive noise.
The City’s alcohol licensing, entertainment, and night-time economy have experienced growth, with over 140 pubs, cafes, bars, and restaurants offering outdoor seating. The City of London Corporation’s Destination City program aims to enhance the Square Mile’s appeal as a premier leisure destination for both local and global visitors, workers, and residents.