Duty of Care and Safeguarding: Managing Drunk or Drug-Affected Persons on Licensed Premises

Licensed premises operate at the intersection of commerce, public safety and safeguarding. While licensees are rightly focused on complying with the Licensing Act 2003 — particularly preventing crime and disorder and public nuisance — these statutory duties sit alongside a wider common-law duty of care to customers and visitors. This duty becomes especially acute when […]
10 Things to Ask Before You Select Your Licensing Consultant

Choosing a Licensing Consultant is a significant decision. The right advisor can help you secure permissions, avoid unnecessary restrictions and operate confidently within the licensing framework. The wrong one can leave you over-conditioned, exposed to enforcement risk, or paying to fix problems that should never have arisen. Licensing Consultancy is NOT a regulated profession, which […]
The Timelines Involved in Applying for a Premises Licence

Applying for a Premises Licence under the Licensing Act 2003 is not an instantaneous process. Even where applications are well prepared and uncontroversial, there are statutory stages and minimum timeframes that cannot be shortened. Understanding these timelines — and the options available if objections arise — allows applicants to plan realistically, avoid commercial frustration, and […]
Licensing Solicitor or Licensing Consultant?

Understanding the Difference – and the Advantages of Each Navigating the UK licensing regime can be complex, technical and, at times, intimidating. Whether applying for a Premises Licence, responding to a Licence Review, or managing ongoing Compliance, many operators rightly seek professional support. Two roles are most often encountered in this space: the Licensing Solicitor […]
The Exemption regarding Alcohol Consumption by 16- and 17-Year-Olds: What the Law Allows

You all know that you can NEVER SELL ALCOHOL to someone UNDER 18, right? That’s a given. However under Section 150(4) of the Licensing Act 2003, there is a specific exception that allows 16- and 17-year-olds to consume alcohol in licensed premises under tightly controlled conditions. What IS Permitted? A 16- or 17-year-old may lawfully […]
Understanding ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

alcoholic beverage. It indicates the percentage of pure alcohol (ethanol) in a given volume of liquid. For example, a drink with 12% ABV contains 12ml of pure alcohol per 100ml of liquid. Why ABV Matters… Legal Requirements for ABV Labelling in the UK… 1. Mandatory Display 2. Format and Placement… 3. Tolerance Levels Due to […]
Can I sell alcohol at a private event without any form of Licence?

Selling alcohol at a private event in England or Wales usually requires a Licence, even if the event is not open to the general public. The key distinction is between selling alcohol and providing it free of charge. When You Need a Licence: You must have a licence if: In these cases, you can apply […]
Your Photo Looks Nothing Like You on Your Personal Licence? Here’s What to Do

Your Personal Licence is a legal document that authorises you to sell or supervise the sale of alcohol in England and Wales. It includes a photocard and a paper counterpart, and both parts are used to verify your identity and credentials. If your appearance has changed significantly – whether due to age, hairstyle, facial hair, […]
Your Old Address on Your Personal Licence? Here’s What to Do

If you’ve moved house and your Personal Licence still shows your old address, it’s important to update it as soon as possible. Under the Licensing Act 2003, Personal Licence Holders are legally required to keep their Licence details up to date – including their name and address. Why It Matters: Your Personal Licence is a […]
You’ve Left the Business but You’re Still Listed as DPS? Here’s What to Do

If you’ve moved on from a licensed premises but are still named as the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) on the Premises Licence, it’s important to act quickly. As the DPS, you remain legally responsible for the sale of alcohol at that premises—even if you’re no longer involved in its operation. Why It Matters: The premises […]