Expertise - Stakeholder co-operation

Challenge

To develop and deliver a programme to reduce under-age access to alcohol and cigarettes by over 50% (in order to leverage additional government funding for other projects).

Client: Swindon Borough Council

Programme

Extensive research with stakeholders to understand the issue and its underlying causes, and identify potential levers.

Engagement with local youth, teachers, community leaders, social services, police, magistrates, council members, and retailers - from small community shops through to major supermarket chains.

Stakeholder workshops to explore the issues, identify appropriate interventions, and scope solutions.

Development and distribution of communication and training materials and practical tools.

Enrolment of stakeholders as partners to support initiatives, including more visible local policing, distribution of Proof of Age cards through local schools and retailers, and a Trading Standards drive on compliance.

Outcome

Underage sale dropped by 60%.

Youth crime and Anti-social behaviour dropped by 12%.

Swindon Borough Council hit its Government target.