A pub manager says that ID scan technology funded by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner is continuing to have a positive impact on the Northampton night-time economy.
Commissioner Danielle Stone currently funds the use of ID scanning machines for more than 20 late-night venues, and pubs and nightclubs have successfully used them over the Christmas and New Year period to help keep customers safe.
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.
Venues which stay open past 1am have been equipped with ID scan machines since a major rollout of the technology in 2023 through the Commissioner’s office.
Last year, Danielle confirmed she would continue to fund the machines until 2028, having seen the positive impact they were having on tackling crime and disorder in the night-time economy.
One of the venues using the technology is the The Old Bank, based on St Giles’ Square in Northampton town centre.
Sam Vata, the pub’s manager (pictured below), said: “We’ve had our ID scanning machine since 2023, and it’s made a real difference for us.
“Scanning someone’s ID only takes about five seconds, so this means our security staff can be more attentive to keeping our customers safe instead of spending all night doing manual checks.
“We’re delighted that the funding for these machines will continue from the Commissioner until 2028, and this will continue to make our premises safer for customers, staff and our security team.”
Danielle (below) visited The Old Bank just before Christmas to see the scanning machines in action. Following her visit, she said: “I’m pleased to be able to continue funding the scanning machines until 2028.
“We want people to come into town and enjoy themselves and support local businesses, and it’s also very important that we keep people safe.
“We do not want people who exhibit predatory behaviour or are a risk to others, and these machines are helping to prevent these problems in our town centres.”
The machines are assisting in investigations. They have been used recently to identify the perpetrator of a sexual assault after it was reported to Police.
As well as ID scan technology, the Commissioner’s office has worked with partners to fund improved lighting 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. 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.
