Retailers unite to tackle underage sales

Shop owners and managers from across the borough have been receiving expert advice on preventing the sale of age-restricted products to young people.

The Responsible Retailers Scheme is run by Rochdale Council’s Public Protection Service as part of its drive to stop under-18s purchasing items such as alcohol, tobacco and knives.

Around 40 members of the scheme have attended a session at Rochdale Cricket, Lacrosse and Squash Club to receive expert guidance on the issue.Talks and workshops took place on a range of subjects including robbery reduction and licensing legislation. In addition, there was advice on the council's Challenge 25 policy which requires customers who appear to be under 25 to prove that they are 18 or over.

Among those present was Ian Malcolm, manager of Mount Green filling station on Halifax Road, who said that the scheme had brought major benefits to his business.

He said: “Since joining the Responsible Retailers Scheme we’ve seen a huge reduction in the number of young people trying to buy alcohol from us because they know that we are really vigilant and know exactly what we should be looking out for.

“I would urge more retailers to join the project because it offers so much free advice and support. I know I can just pick up the phone and receive guidance on how to handle any issues that we have.”

By providing advice on how to prevent the sale of age-restricted products to underage customers the scheme aims to protect retailers, young people and the wider community.

Councillor Martin Burke, Cabinet Member for Internal and Environmental Services, said: “The vast majority of traders in the borough show a great sense of responsibility in ensuring that youngsters don’t get access to items that could cause harm to themselves or others.

“I’m delighted that so many traders took the opportunity to attend the session - the knowledge they gained will allow us to continue the progress we have already made in recent years in combating the problem of underage sales.”