Top Ten Tips for a DPS

Top Ten Tips for a DPS

We've decided to put together our Top Ten Tips for a DPS, Christmas is nearly here and we know and understand that running your venue is taking priority, but we don't want you to end up in hot water by forgetting the fundamentals. 

1. Ensure that the Premises Licence Summary is displayed on the premises in a location the public have access to - Remember if you don't do this it is an offence. 
2. Make sure you have a full version of the Premises Licence (certified) easily available on the premises - Make sure it's somewhere safe, your office.  Also, make sure its easily accessible if needed as well.
3. Make sure you are familiar with ALL of your Premises Licence Conditions. We know this sounds like a given, however, we come across very experienced managers and DPS's that are breaching their Licence and did not even realise.  If there is anything you don't understand in your Licence seek guidance from your local Licencing Authority or the Police Licencing Department.
4. Organise your paperwork. Have an auditable record of important documentation such as training, refusals and policies, make sure you have backups and a copy of these as well. - A good way of logging refusals is to set a button up on your till and every time you refuse someone to log it on the till, whether it be too intoxicated or no ID.
5. As a DPS you must delegate your authority to sell alcohol to all your serving staff members. Make sure this delegation is in a written format to record who you have authorised and given permission too. 
6. Engage with your community, introduce yourself to local residence and participate in community functions, become a focal point for your area for the right reasons, not the wrong ones.
7. Co-operate with the Responsible Authorities; Local Authority, Police, Fire Service, Trading standards etc....
8. Make yourself aware of the offences contained within the Licencing Act 2003, don't get caught out because you didn't know something was an offence. Drunkenness levels are one to pay particular attention to as this often leads to other offences detailed in the Act.
9. Ensure your 'Proof of age" policy and the scheme is promoted throughout your venue so your customers know why and what the requirements are.  Also, make sure this is enforced, the staff are trained correctly and know the acceptable forms of ID that you have authorised.  We always recommend a minimum of a challenge 21 policy and in late night economy venues in town centres, we say Challenge 25 should be adopted.
10. Keep the Licensing Authority up to date with any changes made at the premises and changes of responsible personnel, along with any forms that have to be compleated and passed on to the Local Authority under the Act.

If you aren't sure on what policies or procedures you should have in place for your venue or you need any training, don't hesitate to get in contact with Ben in the office.  With over 16 years experience in the licencing trade from all levels and job roles, he has a wealth of knowledge that can help and assist you.

He can be contacted at the office number 01473 550350 or directly via email at Ben@mimastraining.com