Kent Police, in collaboration with local authorities, will introduce Best Bar None to all 13 districts in 2022, an accreditation scheme supported by the Home Office and the drinks industry that aims to improve standards in the evening and nighttime economy.

It was first tested in Manchester to recognise and reward responsible businesses while also improving operating standards.

Kent was named the winner of the Best New Scheme for 2022 on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at a UK-wide event held at the House of Lords.

Each district of Kent is unique and has its own challenges within the night-time economy, but all of our Best Bar None teams are united in the determination to keep communities safe,’ said Alan Dann, the Crime Reduction manager for Kent Police.

By collaborating with partner agencies and local licensees, such as Best Bar None, it can only be beneficial in reducing types of crime, such as violence against women and girls, while also promoting the creation of safer environments for people to enjoy.

Community Safety Units have worked hard with our partners to encourage bars, clubs, and pubs to sign up for Best Bar None, so it is fantastic news that their efforts have been recognised.

Several of the county’s Best Bar representatives In light of the work done to promote safer socialising for Kent residents, no local schemes attended the event.

By agreeing to participate in the scheme, licensees commit to working closely with police, local governments, and other businesses to reduce crime and keep their communities safe. They must also be able to demonstrate competency in four key areas: venue management, staff training and care, customer safety and welfare, and customer service and community involvement.

The recognition given to Kent and Medway’s Best Bar None scheme is testament to all agencies within the Community Safety Partnership and their commitment to focusing on what matters most to Kent’s communities,’ said Kent Police Superintendent Pete Steenhuis.