Banning Orders Policy Statement

(with respect to excluded persons)

General

Reading Pubwatch considers it important that its Members actively seek to promote measures aimed at the following objectives:

1. Preventing crime and disorder in and around their premises
2. Preventing nuisance to neighbouring business and residents
3. Providing a safe environment for people who frequent their premises and the staff who work there
4. Making Reading a place where people want to live, visit and work

Pubwatch Members welcome those people to their premises who can assist in achieving their aims and whilst enjoying the facilities provided behave responsibly. Pubwatch is pleased that the vast majority of their existing customers are responsible people who are an asset to their business and the vitality of the Town Centre.

There are, however, a minority of people whom it is considered fail to meet the standards expected of them. Pubwatch considers it vital to exclude (ban) such persons from Members premises for purposes of promoting the objectives. In doing so it is recognised that people and circumstances change and it is not the intention to permanently exclude those persons who can satisfy the Pubwatch Committee that they are reformed. Pubwatch will therefore, in appropriate circumstances, consider representations from persons who wish to have their name removed from the exclusion list after a period of time (Exclusion Period) and have formulated the following Policy as a guide.

Note:

1. It is important to note that the Policy is intended as a general guide and must not be regarded as inflexible. The exclusion periods referred to are minimum periods and in certain circumstances the Committee may decide that it is appropriate to extend them. The policy deals separately with various different categories or types of behaviour. Regard will however be had to the cumulative effect of all matters regardless of the fact they may be spread across a number of different categories or types and this may result in longer exclusion periods.
2. Account will also be taken of any other relevant information which comes to the attention of Pubwatch or its members however obtained.
3. Where as a result of a relevant offence, a person is receives a custodial sentence, the exclsuion period will be deemed to commence on the date of release from custody.