Local Authority training courses

Licensing Act 2003 training and Gambling Act 2005 training

Our proficiency in providing Licensing Act and Gambling Act training courses to Local Licensing Committees is well known throughout the country. Our primary training supplier, Partner Peter Adkins, regularly receives positive feedback and comments following the local authority training courses, contact us today for more information and check availability.

Who needs training?

We would highly recommend these licensing courses to all Local Licensing Authorities who have new committee members following elections. They provide a solid grounding in the law and practical training based around an enjoyable presentations and interactive discussions and directed tests.

Where can the training take place?

Although we are based in Birmingham, our courses can be run at your own offices or a suitable local venue and include full documentation and support packs. Many involve interactive sessions and can be tailored to your specific requirements.

Both the Licensing Act and Gambling Act courses have been re-written for 2011 and include recent case law and developments and updates on the Police and Social Responsibility bill.

Peter's style of presentation is easy going and interactive, and ensures that those new to the area realise the importance of their role.

A very logical and lucid presentation of a complex subject. Speaker made a valid cogent and personable presentation.
Rugby Borough Council

About the training courses

The courses are designed to help both new and existing Licensing Committee members and all officers new to this area, establish a solid grounding in these two complex areas of law. Delegates receive a detailed introduction to the Acts, their implementation, day to day procedures, hearings and their operation in practice. Courses are accompanied by full materials and can involve role play and case studies.

Licensing Act training - full or half day course

A full day course covers background to the Act, terminology, the licensing regime, overview and licensing objectives, licensable activities, the role of the authority (including policy), conduct of hearings, premises licenses (applications, content, duration, objections, responsible authorities etc), conditions, Designated Premises Supervisor, personal licenses (applications, content, duration), Club Premises Certificates, variation/transfer of licenses, reviews/appeals. There would also be coverage of recent developments.

Gambling Act training - full or half day course

A full day course covers background to the Act, introduction, history/purpose/method, licensing objectives, the Gambling Commission, local authorities responsibilities (including policy), operating and personal licenses, premises licenses including application procedure and conditions, review procedure/appeals, provisional statements, variation/transfer/reinstatement, gaming machines, lotteries, pubs, clubs and bingo.

Licensing Act and Gambling Act - combined training

This popular course has been specifically designed as a one day introduction to new members of Licensing Committees and officers but also acts as an update and refresher training for existing committee members, officers and those involved in enforcement. It deals with the majority of the topics handled in the two courses above but with specific emphasis on a comparison between the two Acts, licensing objectives, procedures, objections, reviews and hearings.

Licensing Act / Gambling Act Hearings

Specialist training on the conduct of hearing, including mock hearings and case studies. This also covers procedure at meetings, declarations of interest, consequences of behaviour and decisions made. Appeals and costs to authority. How to ensure a fair hearing - rules of natural justice/human rights act considerations. Members code of conduct. Relevance of Licensing Policy. Members acting as advocates for residents. Relevance of planning representations. Police and Crime Act 2009 - legislation relating to Members of Licensing Authority making representations. Conditions - applying conditions that are relevant and enforceable. An understanding of the principles of good decision making.

For further information, take a look at Sydney Mitchell's Licensing and Gambling course brochure.

What our clients say.

"An excellent presentation - attendance should have been mandatory for all committee members."
Michael White, Licensing Manager - Test Valley Borough Council

"Very clear and informative."
Alison Wright, Senior Solicitor - Denbighshire County Council

"Excellent presentation - much appreciated by all attending."
Councillor Ravenhall - Rugby Borough Council

"Extremly informative, well presented and a good opportunity for discussions."
Councillor Forbes - Stroud District Council

If you are interested in any of the above courses contact us by filling out our online enquiry form. Peter will be happy to talk through your specific requirements and check availability.