Pubwatch schemes have been in existence nationally for over 20 years.

Their aim is to bring together the licensees within a particular geographical area, such as a town centre, to provide mutual aid and assistance to combat crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour. Also to exploit opportunities arising from events and activities taking place in that area.

Better Bankside has been instrumental in setting up and running Pubwatch SE1 which has been in existence since May 2007 and which spans both the Better Bankside and the Team London Bridge BIDs.

Pubwatch SE1 currently has 30 members drawn mainly from the licensed trade. It is run by its members and meets every 2 months with the police and the licensing authority to receive reports on local crime, ASB and other local activities that may affect their trade.

The meetings act as a forum at which members can also hear about local events and receive advice and training on things such as dealing with drugs, football hooliganism and the threat from terrorism.