Useful Links for operators
There are so many things that an operator needs to address when opening a new licensed business or acquiring an existing business. Please see below a list of links that you will find useful .
Register a Food Business
with the Local Authority
If your intend to sell food you are required by law to register your business with the local authority (The Council) giving them 28 days notice prior to you commence trading. The registration can usually be done online and there is no cost. You will have to provide the name of your Company/Sole Trader and to identify who will be the main person responsible for running the business day to day.
For Reading Borough Council:
https://www.reading.gov.uk/business/advice-and-opportunities/running-a-food-business/
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For Newbury and Bracknell:
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ICO Data Controller Registration
If you are handling data electronically including the use of CCTV you are required to register as a data controller with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), and costs c.£40 paid annually.
https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/data-protection-fee/register
Fire Risk Assessment (FRA)
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – the Fire Safety Order – provides a framework for regulating fire safety in all non-domestic premises including workplaces and the parts of multi-occupied residential buildings used in common in England and Wales. If your property has the benefit of an Enactment, ie has been granted a Premises Licence, you are required to have completed a Fire Risk Assessment to be reviewed annually. The FRA must be carried out by a competent person.
https://www.gov.uk/workplace-fire-safety-your-responsibilities/fire-risk-assessments
Playing Music?
If you are going to play music at your business premises then you will have to register with PPL and PRS and pay the relevant tariffs which can be substantial. This includes the playing of background music in an offic licence, store or restaurant.
The tariffs are based on capacity, opening hours, number of events etc. Please contact Silver Fox Licensing Consultants for guidance on this.
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NATIONAL ORGANISATIONS
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The British Institute of Innkeeping
Led by the CEO Steve Alton,the BII has been running for over 4 decades, and exists to support, inspire, celebrate and promote the diversity of talented individuals working in the licensed trade. Members receive significant discounts across a range of products and services in the hospitality industry. The employment helpline alone is worth the annual fee.
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Night Time Industry Association (NTIA)
The NTIA has achieved numerous milestones in advocating for the interests of the Night-Time Industry. Through their unwavering commitment, Michael Kill CEO and his team have successfully influenced policy decisions, ensuring that the unique needs and concerns of our industry are considered and addressed. The NTIA has fostered collaboration between businesses and government entities, forging alliances that have led to positive change
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Institute of Licensing
A membership organisation promoting professional standards in all spheres of statutory licensing. and works on a regional and national basis. Members and non-members can enrol on specialist licensing law training courses.
https://instituteoflicensing.org/about-us/
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British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA)
Policy & Campaigns-the BBPA champion the issues that matter most to their members. Driven by Emma McClarkin OBE, the BBPA use their knowledge and expertise to campaign for change, helping breweries and pubs thrive.
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UKHospitality (UKH)
Kate Nicholls OBE is the driving force behind UK Hospitality and are the principle trade body for hospitality in the United Kingdom. UKH lobby central government, champion the hospitality sector and provide expert advice and guidance to members.
https://www.ukhospitality.org.uk/
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National Pubwatch (NPW)
The NPW is a voluntary organisation set up support local pubwatch/city watch schemes in the pub trade. It's aim is to share and promote best practice and to promote a safer environment on licensed premises for drinkers and staff in the night time economy. Led by their Chair Stephen Baker OBE, NPW has produced some excellent training videos on a range of subjects which are available free of charge on their YouTube channel.
https://www.nationalpubwatch.org.uk/
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National Best Bar None (BBN)
BBN is an award and accreditation scheme that aims to drive up operational standards on licensed premises. Venues-pubs, bars, nightclubs and hotels apply to their local BBN scheme volunteer to have an audit of their policies, procedures and training records audited against the national BBN set published standards.
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