3,000 qualified for Responsible Alcohol Retailing

Nearly 3,000 bar staff have now completed the Responsible Alcohol Retailing programme under the SABMiller scholarship scheme.

The brewer has provided funds for full training to be offered to staff over the past two years and SAB has just agreed to renew funding for a third year for a further 1,000 to become qualified.

The nationally-accredited Responsible Alcohol Awareness qualification gives staff a good understanding of licensing law and confidence to deal with underage sales or drunken customers.

"The success of the last two years has shown there is a huge demand for this training in the industry and we are thrilled with SABMiller's commitment for another year," said Cathie Smith, director of BIIAB. 

"This will be particularly important with the huge influx of tourists during the Olympics when the eyes of the world will be looking at how we deal with problems in licensed premises." 

Kristin Wolfe, head of alcohol policy at SABMiller, said: "Although most large retailers offer staff training for those selling alcohol, many smaller shops and pubs may not be able to due to cost and time out of the business. 

"SABMiller's Scholars Programme will give small businesses a helping hand to achieve a national qualification for their staff and will encourage a training culture in those businesses which will impact on the life of their communities. 

"While organisations such as BII positively contribute to better communities, ultimately it is up to each and every drinker to take their responsibility to society and themselves seriously.  That said, every contribution to reduce irresponsible drinking is an important one for society."

A prestigious award ceremony will be held at the House of Commons on 30 June to celebrate the achievement of this year's successful candidates.  Home Office Minister, James Brokenshire, will be presenting certificates and the event will be hosted by Jonathan Lord MP.