Staff Roles & Responsibilities Under the Licensing Act 2003

The Licensing Act 2003 places clear responsibilities on everyone working in licensed premises, not just licence holders and managers. Many enforcement actions and licence reviews arise because staff do not understand how their day‑to‑day actions impact licence compliance. This short CPD course explains the key staff roles under the Licensing Act 2003, including the responsibilities of authorised staff, the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS), and the premises licence holder. It focuses on how staff decisions are assessed during inspections and reviews, and why individual actions such as alcohol sales, refusals, escalation and record‑keeping matter. The course is practical, clear and designed for staff working at all levels within licensed premises.

By completing this course, learners will gain practical knowledge on: What the Licensing Act 2003 regulates The four licensing objectives and why they matter Key roles within licensed premises The responsibilities of the premises licence holder The role and accountability of the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) The responsibilities of staff authorised to sell or supply alcohol When and how staff should escalate concerns Why records, procedures and due diligence protect the licence

Staff actions can directly trigger enforcement or licence reviews Licensing authorities assess management based on staff behaviour Confusion over responsibility increases risk Clear role awareness improves compliance and confidence Demonstrates responsible management and due diligence Supports licensing inspections and audits This course helps ensure everyone understands their role in protecting the premises licence.

This course is suitable for: Bar and front‑of‑house staff Floor staff and supervisors Door staff and security teams Managers and duty managers Premises licence holders and DPSs No prior licensing knowledge is required.

On successful completion of this course, learners are awarded a CPD‑recognised certificate. The certificate provides formal evidence of continuing professional development and can be retained for individual CPD records, staff training files, or inspection purposes. This activity equates to 0.25 CPD hours. Certificates are available to download immediately after achieving the required pass mark in the end‑of‑course assessment.