Best Bar None

In collaboration with Kent Police, we launched the Best Bar None scheme to our borough in June 2022.

Best Bar None is a free accreditation scheme, first launched in Manchester city centre in 2003. The aim is to promote responsible management and operation of on-site alcohol-licensed venues.

The Best Bar None scheme is supported by the Home Office and has grown across the UK. There are now over 50 local authority areas joining the scheme.

The benefits of the scheme

The scheme has many benefits, which include:

  • Reduction in alcohol-related crime and disorder reports,
  • Strengthen a positive relationship between licensed trade, police and local authorities and the private sector,
  • Improved the knowledge and skills of enforcement and regulation agencies and the licensees
  • Support and knowledge for front-line staff to manage the service more confidently and securely,
  • Improve the night-time economy, reassuring visitors of measures in place to limited disorder,
  • Overall improvement of profitability and attractiveness of a general area.

Any on-site licensed premises can register online for the scheme. There is no cost for joining Best Bar None.

How does it work?

Once you register, an assessor from the local Best Bar None Group will be in touch to schedule a visit to your premises. You get access to the online resource library and the assessment. Start the assessment process simply by uploading of staff training, policies, and other measures. The more you provide in advance, the assessor can focus on your overall assessment at your visit.

When going for assessment, you will receive the result straight away with a full report. Do not worry if you have not met the threshold initially. The assessor is there to work with you, review the audit and progress gaps before re-assessment.

Once accredited

The accreditation lasts 12 months with a yearly re-assessment. You will receive a certificate of accreditation and promotional marketing material to display.

As a member of the scheme, you will be invited to the Gravesham Best Bar None Awards Ceremony.

Industry backed scheme

The scheme is funded by the industry and its main sponsors are Diageo, Heineken UK, and Pernod Ricard. Additional support from Asahi UK, Greene King, Mitchells & Butlers, JD Wetherspoon, and Stonegate Pub Company.

Best Bar None scheme works alongside many organisations and schemes including Security Industry Authority (SIA), Portman Group, National Pub Watch, The UK Home Office and Drinkaware. Key partners in the industry including CAP, BIIAB, BII, UK Hospitality, British Beer Pub Association, ATCM Purple Flag, All hand to the pump, the Institute of Licensing and Shield Safety Group.

More information

The Community Safety Partnership is leading on this scheme with support from our Licensing Team.

There will be seasonal management workshops for premises to improve their performance, seek new ideas and help to resolve issues.