'Best Bar None' information for licensees

How do I apply?

With great sadness the bi-annual Best Bar None Awards have been put on hold this year and premises will not be assessed due to the Coronavirus outbreak and the impacts on our licensed premises during lock down. 

It is hoped that we will be in a position to consider these Awards at a future date and a review will be carried out in summer 2021 when hopefully matters will be clearer. 

We thank all premises for their previous interest and support over the last 11 years of the East Ridings Best Bar None awards. 

How does the assessment work?

After you have returned the completed application, a team of two/three BII-trained independent assessors will visit your premises at a pre-agreed date and time to assess the premises.

Each assessment consists of an evaluation of the procedures and processes in place within your venue, and is likely to include conversations with staff members.

Guide to the assessment criteria (word 215kb)

Assessments are based on “essential”, “desired” and “bonus” criteria, and premises must achieve all of the “essential” criteria to attain accreditation.

During the assessment process, you will need to give evidence to back up your information, so please make sure that you’re prepared for your assessment visit. You should have any documents that you plan to use as evidence for your policies ready to be viewed by the assessors. Please feel free to print off any of the draft polices or procedure templates further down this page.

All aspects of the assessment will be based on the following areas: 

• The protection of children from harm
• The prevention  of public nuisance 
• Public Safety
• The prevention of crime and disorder 
• Public health 
• Vulnerability.

An awareness of the vulnerability of customers is paramount in licensed premises, the below YouTube video considers customers vulnerability.

Who are you? Customer vulnerability (YouTube - external website)

When will I receive my award?

The 'Best Bar None' scheme ends with a formal presentation evening at which time all accreditation plaques and awards will be presented. The winners will remain confidential until this time.

At the time of the awards presentation, accredited premises are acknowledged to have reached the set standards.  However, if those standards subsequently fall, the award and accreditation may be withdrawn. The 'Best Bar None' plaques remain the property of East Riding of Yorkshire 'Best Bar None', and must be returned promptly if requested.

Please note: winning an award does not give a premise any kind of immunity from prosecution for any offences or other enforcement action, and is no guarantee of the safety of the premises. 

Where can I find useful documents?

Below are some sample documents to make it easier for you to recognise what information is needed and provide you with example templates of some of the records that you should have in order to be shortlisted.

Useful sample policy and procedure documents

Who should I contact for further information?

If you have any queries about the information needed or about the application form please email the East Riding of Yorkshire ‘Best Bar None’ team:

Email: licensing@eastriding.gov.uk