School pupils in ID card scheme

Prove it! School pupils with their new ID cards

School pupils are being made to carry government ID cards in a pilot scheme to curb underage drinking and smoking.

Youngsters from Falinge Park High School were given the cards to ensure a ‘no excuse’ policy when being asked to prove their age in a local shop or supermarket.

Retailers in the area have been briefed about the scheme, planted by Trading Standards, which could also help pupils to prove their age when requesting a child bus fare or discounted cinema admission.

Mr Robin Lonsdale, Headteacher at Falinge Park High School, said the scheme sends out a “clear message” to those planning on buying alcohol, cigarettes or knives when they are underage.

He added: “Many of our students have in the past had trouble paying for child priced travel fares and gaining entry to age restricted films at the cinema, because some will look too old whereas others look younger than their age.

“Now it will be easier for them to prove their age and spare them unnecessary embarrassment.”

Andy Glover, Public Protection Manager at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “No ID means no sale – so by abiding by these rules, retailers are accepting their social responsibilities to protect the health and safety of children and young people, as well as helping to reduce anti-social behaviour in the community which is often associated with underage alcohol and knife sales.”

He added: “We are working hard to create a culture in the borough in which local retailers always request proof of age and only accept correct forms of ID to curb underage sales of alcohol, cigarettes and knives. Similarly, young people should expect to be asked for ID.”

The cards have been introduced as part of the council’s commitment to implement the Responsible Retailer Scheme, launched in Falinge back in March 2009.

Retailers that have signed up to the scheme have promised to ask for proof of age before selling any age-restricted products such as alcohol, knives and cigarettes to a customer they suspect is underage.

The school used the students’ annual class photographs to apply for the proof of age cards from ValidateUK.

Students were presented with their new ID cards by trading standards on Friday 3 July who also explained how important it is for young people to carry the cards at all times.

Councillor Ted Flynn, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Providing students with a genuinely recognised form of identification at an early age prepares and equips them for when they are asked to show ID, which is fast becoming standard in many retail establishments across the borough. It’s time to get used to it.”