NHS to nominate people for pubwatch bans

Isle of Wight Pubwatch has announced a partnership with the NHS in a bid to reduce alcohol-related disorder.

Two representatives from the Isle of Wight NHS will attend meetings between the pubwatch — usually held every three months. They will speak on behalf of the NHS and nominate trouble makers for pub bans.

Access to pubwatch photo galleries will be available to authorised NHS representatives.

The NHS will be able to nominate troublemakers and then the pubwatch will decide whether to impose a ban.

Bans could be placed on people who "have not necessarily" been drinking in licensed premises. "That is what makes this scheme distinctive," said sergeant Mark Voller from Isle of Wight police licensing.

"As a police officer, I think the benefit of the NHS being affiliated to pubwatch is that a very powerful message is sent to the whole community that violence and abuse against the NHS is intolerable.

"The scheme benefits the whole community, of which pubs and clubs are a key part."

Licensee Chris Cole, of the White Lion in Newport, supported the affiliation. "If someone is repeatedly in A&E on a Friday night then it is useful to know," he said.

"I don't think the NHS should have the ability to ban people, but the more information we get, the better."

Voller added: "Pubwatch licensees have shown a great deal of support for this initiative, which backs the NHS staff who frequently have to deal with drunken and aggressive individuals in the course of their job.

"In this way, licensees are helping to send a clear message to the community — including their potential customers — that such behaviour won't be tolerated."