Issue - meetings

The Committee received information concerning current practices with Betting Shops to protect underage and vulnerable persons and also examples of training materials used to train staff working in Betting Shops.

PC Butler from the Metropolitan Police updated Members on the Hayes Bet Watch Scheme, which was formed in 2017 in order to deal with issues taking place in the Betting Shops located in the Hayes Town Centre area. It was noted that the scheme operated well and provided a forum to share information and intelligence. Members welcomed the significant reduction in anti-social behaviour and crime since the scheme had started.

Members discussed the self-exclusion procedures in place and liaison with local faith groups which could assist the Police in intelligence. The Committee requested details at their April 2020 meeting of the latest number of betting shops in the Borough.

RESOLVED: That the Committee note the information and request details at the April 2020 meeting of the latest number of betting shops in the Borough.

The Licensing Services Manager presented a report to the Committee on the different levels of training courses and qualifications available for the Licensed Retail and the Hospitality sector. Members noted that the minimum legal requirement to be specified as a Designated Premises Supervisor on a Premises Licence, was the Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders.

Members appreciated the information, in particular for use at Licensing Sub-Committee hearings, in order to better understand the level of skill and knowledge operators should have.

RESOLVED:

That the Committee note the information and request the full training booklet be circulated to Licensing Committee Members.