Licensing Officer PC

Job title: Licensing Officer PC
Grade: Constable
Role code: PDV142
Status: Police
Home Office code: Operational
Limited Duties
Category:O

Main purpose of the role:

Provide bespoke, expert support to divisions on recognised licensing concerns, utilising specialised knowledge of Licensing powers and legislation, including legislation relating to sexual entertainment venues and street trading in order to support Force objectives when dealing with issues which are likely to affect the community, utilising intelligence, harm scoring, policing skills, licensing legislation and ASB working practices as part of a problem-orientated approach. This will include working closely with Neighbourhood Policing Teams and partner agencies in order to uphold the four licensing objectives and provide support for formal action against those failing in their requirements.

Main responsibilities:

• Work closely with Beat, NTF and CCPT officers providing support and shared knowledge to ensure a successful and sustainable resolution to licensing issues and concerns.
• Develop, maintain and foster productive working relationships with other agencies, including the Licensing Authority, CPS, breweries, legal representatives and community safety partnerships, in order to facilitate effective licensing processes for the Division.
• Take ownership and develop investigations into those failing to uphold the licensing objectives, utilising intelligence gained from local officers, licensing coordinators and bespoke operations where local resolutions have failed in order to resolve the identified issue through prosecution or use of another licencing power or order.
• Utilise the full range of ASB and Licensing powers to enforce licensing legislation, maintaining an overview of crime relating to licensed premises, providing advice, guidance and support for local neighbourhood officers, in order to deliver appropriate police interventions which, reduce crime and disorder associated with licensed premises and substance misuse.
• Case build, utilising the PMP Athena system to manage and maintain work streams on licensing premises where fallings have been recognised and likely to result in attending Licensing Committee hearings and Magistrates' Court as the police advocate, where appropriate, raising any objections and/or observations as necessary, in order to effectively present the police case on licence applications, breaches of legislation, reviews of licences or appeals.
• Develop and maintain high level knowledge of and expertise in specific legislation relevant to role, gain a nationally recognised qualification once officially released and finalised by the NPCC to ensure that the correct level of knowledge, skills and understanding is achieved.
• Undertake targeted activity, such as localised or County wide operations to combat ASB and disorder directly related to licencing work streams, utilising other specialist resources available as and when required. This will include undertaking primarily uniformed, planned and unplanned visits to licensed premises as part of the enquiry process and to promote the licensing objectives, investigating breaches of licensing legislation and examining the management of premises to support statutory and policing objectives.
• Attend relevant safety advisory group meetings, meetings of the local licensed trade, licensing hearings; attend premises and sites as necessary at evenings and weekends to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and check the satisfactory adherence to any conditions imposed upon an event.

February 2023

Vetting level:

Recruitment Vetting (RV)

Necessary experience:

Hours of work are dependent upon local need but are generally normal office hours. However, officers will be required to vary these times to include weekends and evenings (including after midnight) on occasions to undertake inspections, site visits and attend meetings held out of hours by partners and the licensed trade. Flexibility in working hours is therefore essential and the officer is expected to amend their duties to meet role requirements at reasonably short notice.

The role requires travel within the county to undertake visits, often at short notice, and attend meetings/training; and nationally to attend training. The Officer must therefore hold a valid driving licence and have access to a vehicle (vehicle usage yet to be decided). The post holder will be required to successfully obtain authorisation to drive their own vehicle, hire vehicles and police vehicles for police purposes.

Officers must have excellent written and verbal communication skills; the ability to communicate effectively at all levels and possess sound negotiating skills.

Officers must have an enquiring and logical mind and be able to gather evidence of a standard to present to licensing sub-committee hearings and magistrates courts.

Officers must have the ability to occasionally work alone with little supervision and be confident in their ability to deal with conflict, taking robust action where appropriate ensuring their officer safety training is current. Officers must be I.T. proficient with good keyboard skills, knowledge of Microsoft Word and PowerPoint and the ability to use STORM, ATHENA and PNC as well as the Bacchus licensing database, with appropriate training.

Officers may be required to cover absent colleagues or assist other licensing officers as necessary throughout the county.

Nominated stations are yet to be decided however it is preferred that officers will work in a team of three, assigned to a division for general ownership. Locations likely to consist of Maidstone, Medway and Canterbury. (Could be subject to change)

Behaviours:

Analyse critically (level 1)

I recognise the need to think critically about issues. I value the use of analysis and testing in policing. I take in information quickly and accurately. I am able to separate information and decide whether it is irrelevant or relevant and its importance. I solve problems proactively by understanding the reasons behind them, using learning from evidence and my experiences to take action. I refer to procedures and precedents as necessary before making decisions. I weigh up the pros and cons of possible actions, thinking about potential risks and using this thinking to inform our decisions. I recognise gaps and inconsistencies in information and think about the potential implications. I make decisions in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.

Collaborative (level 1)

I work cooperatively with others to get things done, willingly giving help and support to colleagues. I am approachable, and explain things well so that I generate a common understanding. I take the time to get to know others and their perspective in order to build rapport. I treat people with respect as individuals and address their specific needs and concerns. I am open and transparent in my relationships with others. I ensure I am clear and appropriate in my communications.

Deliver, support and inspire (level 1)

I take on challenging tasks to help to improve the service continuously and support my colleagues. I understand how my work contributes to the wider police service. I understand it is part of my collective responsibility to deliver efficient services. I take personal responsibility for making sure that I am working effectively to deliver the best service, both individually and with others. I am conscientious in my approach, working hard to provide the best service and to overcome any obstacles that could prevent or hinder delivery. I support the efficient use of resources to create the most value and to deliver the right impact. I keep up to date with changes in internal and external environments. I am a role model for the behaviours I expect to see in others and I act in the best interests of the public and the police service.

Emotionally aware (level 1)

I treat others with respect, tolerance and compassion. I acknowledge and respect a range of different perspectives, values and beliefs within the remit of the law. I remain calm and think about how to best manage the situation when faced with provocation. I understand my own emotions and I know which situations might affect my ability to deal with stress and pressure. I ask for help and support when I need it. I understand the value that diversity offers. I communicate in clear and simple language so that I can be easily understood by others. I seek to understand the thoughts and concerns of others even when they are unable to express themselves clearly.

Innovative and open-minded (level 1)

I demonstrate an openness to changing ideas, perceptions and ways of working. I share suggestions with colleagues, speaking up to help improve existing working methods and practices. I constantly reflect on my own way of working and periodically review processes and procedures for continuous improvements. I adapt to change and am flexible as the need arises while encouraging others to do the same. I learn from my experiences and do not let myself be unduly influenced by preconceptions.

Take ownership (level 1)

I actively identify and respond to problems. I approach tasks with enthusiasm, focusing on public service excellence. I regularly seek feedback to understand the quality of my work and the impact of my behaviour. I recognise where I can help others and willingly take on additional tasks to support them, where appropriate. I give feedback to others that I make sure is understandable and constructive. I take responsibility for my own actions, I fulfil my promises and do what I say I will. I will admit if I have made a mistake and take action to rectify this. I demonstrate pride in representing the police service. I understand my own strengths and areas for development and take responsibility for my own learning to address gaps.

Values:

Impartiality (accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public service (accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical skills:

Casefile Preparation (Level 3)

Identify and present case materials, working with the CPS to progress the case. Example: Distinguish between evidence and unused material, identifying material, which might undermine the prosecution or assist the defence. Record, retain and reveal all unused material, distinguishing between sensitive and non sensitive. Ensure quality and accuracy of file contents, presenting evidence logically and with integrity. Present honest and objective comments regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the case in a fair and justifiable manner to the CPS. Liaise with the Criminal Justice Unit and/or Crown Prosecution Service for advice, as required submit the correct and completed case file to the Criminal Justice Units in the required time scales. Respond promptly and positively to CJU/CPS requests in respect of further actions.

Community Partnerships (Level 5)

Manages partnership agreements which address local community and agency needs and contributes to the reduction of crime and disorder. Example: Develop a clear understanding of community issues and create a policing culture that emphasises a locally based problem solving approach. Identify, develop and sustain effective working relationships with the local community representatives and agency stakeholders. Have an awareness of the capability of each partner and the resources that they can contribute. Draft a broad strategy with partners to address local issues. Agree protocols and performance measurements. Allocate appropriate finance and resources to implement the strategy. Ensure all team activities are planned, organised and implemented in line with the objectives contained within the partnership agreement. Provide direction to officers to develop Force delivery that ensures a partnership approach to identifying and reducing problems at both strategic and tactical levels. Ensure that staff act in a fair
and non-discriminatory manner. Monitor and evaluate partnership related activity to ensure effectiveness. Take appropriate remedial action as necessary to maintain agreements. Document the result of the partnership agreement. Provide feedback to senior officers and partners regarding the effectiveness of the partnership agreement.

Crime Reduction/Prevention (Level 5)

Develop strategies to reduce local crime and disorder Set local crime and disorder strategy in consultation with partners, the local community and police personnel, which meets local needs and supports the Force crime and disorder strategy. Example: Evaluate crime and disorder statistics and identify local crime and disorder risk/problems. Identify corporate and cross agency issues which impact on the delivery of policing objectives. Review current investigation activities to determine effectiveness. Consult with partners, local community and police personnel, as appropriate. Determine crime and disorder objectives and priorities. Write strategy based on all available information. Agree the finance, management and quality control systems required to achieve the local crime and disorder strategy in accordance with the crime policy, Business Excellence Model and best value principles. Communicate strategy to all partners and stakeholders, securing their support and commitment to delivery of strategy. Gather information regarding the impact and effectiveness of local crime and disorder strategy. Review and revise strategy as necessary to achieve policing and local objectives.

Drugs (Level 3)

Has a basic understanding of the various types of drugs and paraphernalia used to administer and manufacture illegal substances. Has a good understanding of drugs related offences, relevant legislation, the evidence required to support further investigation and an awareness of the support and assistance that other investigative officers and agencies can offer.

Health & Safety (Level 3)

Has a basic understanding of Health and Safety issues affecting the current role and working environment. Takes responsibility for personal safety and the safety of others. Aware of hazards and reports problems identified to line manager. Understands and minimises the physical risk of injury through the use of proper manual handling procedures.

Intelligence Gathering & Analysis (Level 4)

Able to analyse basic intelligence submitted and/or make decisions about whether it should be followed up or not. If further research is necessary, be able to carry out that task or delegate to another officer. If required, be able to put together basic information packages for others based on the intelligence gained.

Knowledge of Legislation and Policy (Level 4)

Has a thorough understanding of all legislation, policy and procedure relevant to the current role. Able to apply this and offer advice to colleagues as necessary.

Licence & Regulations - Liquor, Entertainment etc (Level 6)

Sets or seeks to influence local enforcement policy in line with declared business objectives. Aware of all licensing regulations and their impact on the local community. Ensures that a direct approach is taken to the authorities in order to put the full business case when licensing matters are under consideration.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 4)

Full compliance with Level 3. Has successfully completed all standard relevant Information Management and Security training package(s). Accurate use of Government Security Classification (GSC). Ensures physical and digital records are stored with appropriate security relevant to the sensitivity of the documents and has working understanding of appropriate National Retention Schedules. Is able to quality assure own records management processes as well as those of any staff for whom they have supervisory responsibility. Is aware of where to seek further support in relation to Records management within force when necessary. If nominated as an Information Asset Assistant is familiar with the NPCC Information Asset Owners Handbook.

Project Management (Level 4)

Capable of demonstrating a practical knowledge of project management principles and techniques. Able to define, plan and manage projects within a Department or Division. Recommends and agrees project objectives, timescales and budget with the appropriate senior officer. Leads a small team from within the Department or Division. Able to identify resources required and their appropriate role and skills. Monitors costs and milestones and proactively reports exceptions to next tier management. Has some knowledge of risk management Able to deliver small projects on time and within budget. Understands the principles of benefits management.

Risk Management (Level 3)

Demonstrates an awareness of personal risk management issues, challenges or difficulties likely to affect the post holder in the execution of their duties. Able to anticipate risks likely to affect their work and knows how to communicate the likelihood and possible impacts of such events to line managers or supervisors.

Staff Safety (Level 4)

Has been trained in the skills and demonstrates the ability to apply elements of the staff safety programme. These are: Communication Skills, Handcuffing Skills, Unarmed Skills, Incapacitant Skills, Baton Skills and Edged Weapons Awareness. Currently authorised to use these techniques, having received initial or refresher training within the last 12 months. Able to apply these . techniques in practical situations minimising the risk of injury to themselves and ensuring their own safety and the safety of colleagues and members of the public.

Test Purchase & Decoy Operations (Level 5)

Detailed knowledge of court presentation techniques and legislation relevant to disclosure, public interest immunity hearings and all stated cases relevant to deployment. Involved in the development of test purchase and decoy operatives training. Determines operational objectives and priorities. Gives due regard to available resources and the need to demonstrate value for money and effective use of resources.

National Occupational Standards:

AA1 (Level Accredited)

Promote equality and value diversity.