In many towns and cities the evening economy can be a major source of crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour. The effect of this, if not managed properly, is to deter ordinary people from enjoying the amenities and services in areas around the local 'club land'. For example, cinemas, theatres, restaurants or other amenities not linked to alcohol, can suffer as fear of crime may discourage people who are apprehensive about confrontation with younger people or violence. Business Crime Reduction Partnerships offer evening economy businesses a very real and practical support mechanism, which is designed to help partners tackle these real and potential problems. We urge all businesses, which are part of the evening economy, to be proactive and to join as soon as possible.

The evening economy has a major part to play in the safe, effective and responsible management of all types of licensed premises. The Safer Socialising Award has been introduced for partnerships who wish to adopt its principles, as a mechanism for the management of individual licensed membership.