Training aimed at keeping pub-goers safe has been hailed as "hugely impressive" by Wiltshire's top police official.
Welfare and Vulnerability Engagement (WAVE) training educates bar and pub staff on identifying potentially vulnerable customers, with the goal of curbing violent crime, sexual offences, and drug or alcohol-related injuries.
While customers may start their night out feeling healthy and confident, the influence of others, or substances, can quickly change this, making them more vulnerable and requiring extra support.
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The training, which is free and funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, is delivered by the Safer Business Network.
During the half-day course, staff from various venues, including The Brunel, Chippenham Town Football Club, Grounded, Rivo Lounge, The Pheasant, The Three Crowns, and The Waverley, learned how to appropriately assist potentially vulnerable customers.
The training also covered awareness of drink spiking and the 'Ask for Angela' scheme, which is active in many venues across Wiltshire and Swindon.
The scheme allows customers to discreetly signal for help if they feel unsafe.
The training was observed by Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson, who praised both the training and the participating venues' commitment.
He said: "It shows they take the safety of their customers seriously and want to create a safer night out for everyone in Chippenham.
"Our residents should expect to be able to enjoy an evening out without feeling harassed, intimidated or worried about the possibility of their drinks being spiked."
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The training is part of a broader initiative by the Police and Crime Commissioner to create safer streets in Wiltshire.
This has included investing Home Office money to fund night-time economy wardens in Trowbridge and Salisbury on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as providing funding for four deployable CCTV cameras in Salisbury, additional CCTV in Chippenham town centre, and improved lighting and CCTV in Swindon.
Amanda Baker, General Manager of The Pheasant and chair of Chippenham Pubwatch, has been a key advocate for the training.
She said: "I think it’s important that our customers feel safe and secure, so that we build confidence within the local community.
"As a parent of three daughters, I think it’s really important that our children feel safe when they’re out in Chippenham town centre, or anywhere really."
Ms Baker has been actively encouraging as many venues as possible to participate in the training, highlighting its importance in fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all.
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