Nicola Caldwell (second from right) of WG13 accepts the BBN National Award earlier this year
The hunt is on for Scotland’s most responsible licensed premises as the annual Best Bar None awards get under way.
The awards celebrate the best bars, nightclubs and licensed premises which, as part of BBN’s national accreditation scheme, promote socially responsible drinking and customer safety.
There are ten categories: best pub, independent pub, bar, independent bar, hotel bar, nightclub, specialist entertainment venue, heart of the community, newcomer and innovation in social responsibility. There is also a national champion award.
Last year’s national award went to WG13, a Kilmarnock venue with a social conscience and a heart, which continues to reap the benefits of being part of the BBN scheme.
At the awards ceremony in March, WG13 also scooped best specialist entertainment award, for its unique take on supporting the hospitality trade and young persons with challenges to gain experience, training and work skills.
‘Credibility in the hospitality sector’
WG13, part of Community Voluntary Organisation, East Ayrshire, nurtures, develops and trains young people, offering them a positive future and life skills.
WG13’s senior job coach, Nicola Caldwell, recalls: “I was overwhelmed by the reaction — it was so unexpected. The whole Best Bar None journey has been a really positive experience, and it has given the work the team does credibility in the hospitality sector.
“The Best Bar None Awards feel like they are about the real people who work in the trade. It has been an eye opener and cemented WG13’s reputation as a safe social venue with a twist.”
Stewart Denny, of BBN, added: “Best Bar None accreditation supports delivery of safe and inclusive social spaces, which WG13 most certainly is. The aim of the scheme is to align with licensing objectives whilst rewarding social responsibility and duty of care, resulting in safer communities. In the case of WG13, a key outcome was supporting staff to aim for their goals and dreams.”
The Best Bar None scheme’s vision is to have a scheme in every Local Authority Area in Scotland over the next three years. Currently it has a presence in 19 authorities.
• To enter the awards, click here
