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What we are doing about it
For a number of years we have adopted a proactive approach
to reduce illegal sales. Whilst maintaining a robust
enforcement policy against those traders who flout their
responsibilities we also are keen to work with traders
who want to comply.
Our strategy and action
plan for tackling illegal sales has evolved over
a number of years and is structured using increasing
levels of action :
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Produce and distribute written
guidance for all traders selling age restricted
products |
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Visits, often with police and fire service,
to remind retailers of their responsibilities
and issuing warnings to those believed to be selling
illegally |
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Investigate further complaints utilising various
methods such as surveillance of the premises and
test purchasing using volunteer children |
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Legal proceedings against offenders without
further warning |
We were also one of the first authorities to introduce
a successful proof of age card
scheme in partnership with Citizencard. All secondary
pupils in the Borough have now been given the opportunity
to obtain a card which is entirely free of charge.
In 2002 we were given a new joint responsibility with
Police in relation to illegal sales of alcohol to children.
This was recognised would produce a significant increase
in workload.
We have a specialist officer, initially grant funded
from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund until March 2004
but now mainstreamed by the Council, to tackle all areas
of illegal sales, in particular alcohol.
A working group with other agencies has been established
together with other links within the Council and outside
organisations.
A protocol has also been agreed with the Police defining
enforcement responsibility. Trading Standards are responsible
for those sales taking place from 'off licence' premises
with the Police being responsible for 'on licence' premises.
We are keen to receive help from the community to identify
those traders who continue to sell illegally or adults
who may also be buying alcohol on behalf of children.
Information can be passed to us directly, via the Police,
Community Wardens or in confidence via our hotline.
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