Twenty-five late-night venues across Northamptonshire will have ID scan technology for a further three years to help tackle crime and disorder in the night-time economy – thanks to funding from Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone.
Venues that stay open past 1am have been equipped with ID scan machines for the last two years following a major rollout of the technology in 2023, thought to be one of the biggest seen in the UK at the time.
The machines are used by door staff to check if someone’s ID is genuine and allow venue owners to join a virtual network that enables them to share pictures and information about those who cause disruption and have been banned, preventing them from entering other premises and creating further issues.
The announcement comes as work continues to make neighbourhoods safer throughout the summer as part of the Home Office’s Safer Streets Summer campaign, which is being led locally by Danielle’s office in partnership with Police, Fire and Rescue, councils, schools, health services, business, transport and community organisations.
One late-night venue using the ID scan machines said they were ‘the best thing that has happened’ to help keep people safe during the night-time economy in many years. And after reviewing the positive impact they have had over the last two years, Danielle is now providing £63,000 in funding to allow premises across Northamptonshire to use the machines until at least 2028.
Danielle said: “The feedback we have had from bars and clubs is that they have been a really effective addition and are actively helping them to keep people safe in their establishments.
“Whether it is people enjoying a night out with friends and family, or staff working at a late-night venue, it is so important to feel safe.
“I am delighted to be able to fund this ID scan technology for a further three years, and I am in no doubt that it is helping to prevent alcohol-related crime and disorder. It is also proving to be an additional tool for the police to use when they are investigating any crime that has occurred.
“This is further proof of how important partnership working is in helping to reduce harm and protect our communities – all of which are key pillars of my Safe and Sound public safety plan.”
One of the venues using the ID scan technology is Bar Rumba, located on Abington Square in Northampton town centre.
Hamid Delbari, manager at Bar Rumba, said the ID scan machines have been a hugely positive addition to the night-time economy.
He said: “I think the ID scanners have been one of the best things to happen in Northampton. They are helping to reduce the number of troublemakers we have coming into our venue.
“No-one wants to come to a place that they feel might be dangerous, so these machines are making the environment much safer for the people who visit us, and the reaction from people has been positive once we’ve explained how the machines are helping to keep them safe.
“I’m really glad the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner is renewing the funding for these ID scanning machines for the next three years, and it’s really good news for the safety of not just our customers, but our staff as well.”
As well as ID scan technology, the Commissioner’s office has worked with partners to fund improved lighting, safer routes and CCTV in recent years to improve safety in town centres.
In Northampton, this work – done in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council and Northampton BID – has helped the town centre to retain its Purple Flag status, which celebrates places that create thriving, vibrant night-time economies that are safe for visitors, workers and residents.
Funding has also been provided to train staff in pubs and clubs across the county to recognise vulnerability and challenge harassment, with the aim of reducing violence against women and girls. And there is ongoing funding to help pubs and clubs to improve their safety and security by taking part in online self-assessments through the Licensing SAVI scheme.
