Lots of clubs and bars in the UK are now asking for photo ID upon entry. This is not a way to invade your privacy; it is actually to keep you safe. The venues that require ID have to do so because of the provisions on their alcohol and entertainment licences – The chances are if it’s a late night venue this requirement will be in effect. Simply put – it’s the law.
ID is scanned and kept on a secure server which is only accessed in the event of a criminal incident and then it is only accesed by the police themselves. The data is automatically erased after each event, no copies are kept and the data is NOT sent anywhere else.
If you are a regular clubber you may already have come across the ‘Safer Clubbing’ Scheme and if you have ever visited the USA you will be aware that it’s the law to show your ID at any venue that serves alcohol – it’s strange at first but in time you get used to making sure you have your ID when you go out….start making it a habit for UK events then you will never get caught out! If you don’t like carrying your passport or driving licence around the apply for a citizen card – it’s easy to apply for, easy to carry and there is no data stored on the card.
After you have entered the club there are secure cloakrooms where you can safely store your coat and ID so you dont have to carry it round the club with you. The following items are valid forms of photo ID:
- Driving Licence – A full or provisional driving licence is acceptable ID.
- Passport – A passport is acceptable ID.
- Citizen Card – For more information visit www.citizencard.com