Best Bar None - the UK's national awards scheme for best practice in the licensed trade

Best Bar None is a national accreditation scheme, recognised as best practice by the Home Office and the industry.   It’s aimed at all licensed premises which are assessed on criteria such as door and security policies, how they deal with abusive customers and what systems they have in place to deal with alcohol related crime, resulting in a safer environment for staff and customers alike. It’s a free “health check” for licensed premises.

With sponsorship from Bacardi Brown-Forman Brands, Anthony Collins Solicitors and Birmingham’s City Centre Partnership, Birmingham is now in its fourth year of the scheme, which is run by Birmingham City Council, in partnership with West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service.

Not only is Birmingham’s scheme unique in that it’s city-wide, but it also takes account of Birmingham as a conference city, hence the introduction of the “hotel bar” category. In 2010 the “University/Student Bar” category was introduced for the first time in recognition of Birmingham’s many universities and colleges and we hope that even more student bars will apply for accreditation this year.

As well as an overall winner – Best Bar None – there will be winners and finalists in eight categories: best city centre pub; best suburban pub; best city centre bar; best suburban bar; best nightclub; best hotel bar; best independent venue and best university/student bar.  With the help of our media partners, BRMB, members of the public also have the chance to vote for their “best bar none” from the shortlisted venues during July and August, by going on-line and voting via the BRMB website.

All venues that achieve accreditation to the scheme will receive a Best Bar None plaque to display at their premises – a sign to customers that they’re in a well-managed, safe environment. So be sure to look out for premises displaying the logo!

 Jacqui Kennedy, Director of Regulatory Services at Birmingham City Council, said:  

 “Birmingham is a great city and one that thrives on an excellent nightlife and leisure trade. This was acknowledged when the City was last year awarded “Purple Flag” status, which recognises cities that offer a real mix of evening entertainment – including arts, music venues, restaurants, shopping, as well as pubs and clubs. People want to be reassured when they go out that they are going to be safe. The Flag shows visitors that the city centre is a safe place for the whole family. This is supported by the high standard of our licensed premises and the number that are accredited to the Best Bar None scheme. Well-run pubs play a vital role in people’s perceptions of safety. All of these factors combined will bring economic benefits to the City in terms of attracting more visitors, businesses and students to a vibrant and enjoyable night time economy.”

 Neil Robertson, Chief Executive Officer of Best Bar None, said:

 "It's great to see Birmingham's scheme going from strength to strength and shows what can be achieved by good partnership working. Nationally, there are 70% fewer police call outs to alcohol related crime at BBN venues – which has to be applauded”.

 Bruce Ray Director of External Affairs, Bacardi Brown-Forman Brands, said:

 "Bacardi Brown-Forman Brands continues to work with partners throughout the

UK in establishing a buoyant night-time economy and great venues for

consumers to enjoy. We are thrilled once again to be sponsoring Birmingham Best Bar

None. Every year the standard of the licensed premises in the city seems to improve and this is a credit to Birmingham and all those involved with their operation. We are looking forward to raising the standards again and attracting even more entrants to these fantastic awards".

 This year’s scheme was launched on Thursday 27th January at the Old Joint Stock, Temple Row West, winner of the Best City Centre Pub Award 2010.

 Expressions of interest should be sent to Ann Hyland, Best Bar None Co-ordinator, Regulatory Services, PO Box 15908, Birmingham B2 2UD by 28^th February.

Further information is available on the website www.birminghambestbarnone.com