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Arena Magazine 2007 Issue 4 Winter Arena |
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Festive stings
Your question answered.
During the run up to Christmas and the New Year we get a lot of young people wanting to buy alcohol in our shop, when I ask them for proof of ID, I get a mouthful of abuse. I've also read about trading standards conducting 'sting' operations. Where do I stand legally?
There are laws covering the sale of age-restricted products with alcohol providing by far the biggest problem. If you are caught selling to an underage person you may end up at court and if found guilty you could face a hefty fine. You are also likely to be disciplined by your employer.
To avoid any possibility of breaking the law always ask the purchaser for proof of identity to verify their age. Most employers insist that staff ask the age of anyone who looks under 21. Follow this 'Ask 21' policy and you cannot be prosecuted.
Don't be fooled by fake or other ID which does not belong to the purchaser. And if you still have any doubts refuse the sale. If the customer becomes abusive call the manager. You should also report any attempt by underage people to buy age-restricted goods to the manager.
Trading standards and the police do operate 'sting' operations. They use underage youths to 'test' local shops. Follow the guidance above and you won't go far wrong. Ask for valid ID, think 21 not 18 and again, if in any doubt, refuse the sale.
Your employer has a duty to train you on the current laws. If you haven't had any, insist on it.
Download a copy of Usdaw's leaflet (351) on underage sales.
Preventing under-age sales (pdf)
While this advice is accurate it is not a definitive guide to the law or your contract.
If you have any concerns you should contact your local rep/official or ring the helpline 0845 6060640.
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