New Community Alcohol Partnership launches in Margate

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Uniformed officers and community representatives standing on grass near a seafront beside Community Alcohol Partnerships (CAP) banners. In front of the group, in the centre of the photo, is a table covered in a CAP-branded bright pink cloth

IMAGE: Members of the new Margate Community Alcohol Partnership include Jo-Anna Taylor, Thanet District Council's Community Services Manager (third from left) and, far-right, Andy Blair Youth Harm Reduction Officer, Kent Trading Standards

A national initiative designed to tackle under-age drinking is being rolled out in a second Thanet town.

A network of around 360 Community Action Partnerships (CAPs) across the country - including one in Broadstairs - have proven track records of reducing alcohol harm in children and young people, improving their health and wellbeing and community relations.

Now a Margate CAP is bringing together Kent Trading Standards, Kent Police, councils and shops among others to:

  • work with schools and youth groups - to educate young people about the dangers of underage drinking so they can make responsible choices about alcohol, drugs, and anti-social behaviour
  • work with local retailers - to enforce regulations and prevent the illegal sale of alcohol to under-18s. This includes stopping illegal 'proxy sales' when adults buy alcohol for young people, and ensuring all retailers comply with the proof-of-age scheme 'Challenge 25'

Kent Trading Standards Operations Manager Jim Whiddett said: “Community Alcohol Partnerships are tried and tested ways to reduce the risk of underage sales which can help cut down drink-fuelled anti-social behaviour.

“The collective efforts of Kent Trading Standards, police, local schools and other partners, to address the issue in Broadstairs and significantly lower under-age alcohol sales recently received national recognition.

“Working together with partners we’ll be aiming to repeat that success and make a difference in Margate so local communities feel protected and legitimate businesses, and the town's valuable tourist trade, are supported.”

Cabinet Member Georgia Foster

“...collaboration really is key to addressing anti-social issues”

Georgia Foster Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, Kent County Council

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, Georgia Foster, said:  “I am very proud of the important contribution Kent Trading Standards make to keeping our communities safe and ensuring lawful shops can thrive on the high street.

“Of course, enforcement is only one part of the picture and collaboration really is key to addressing anti-social issues. I’m looking forward to following the progress of the Margate Community Alcohol Partnership.

“I’d also like to remind residents that if you’re worried about under-age alcohol sales where you live, you should report you concerns to the Citizens Advice consumer service. Alternatively, please report them anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Kate Winstanley, Director of Community Alcohol Partnerships, said: “We know from extensive research that underage drinking can lead to lots of challenges for young people in their education, relationships, health and increased risk of alcohol-related harm in later life.

"CAP has proved to be a successful model for tackling underage drinking and just as importantly promoting positive health and wellbeing in children and young people. Our evidence shows that CAPs are extremely effective in reducing the supply of alcohol to children, underage alcohol consumption and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

“It’s great to see local partners coming together in Margate and we are looking forward to seeing the initiatives make a positive difference."