Bracknell

A new electronic proof of age system is being introduced as part of the Bracknell Council’s e+ smart card programme. Shops, pubs and clubs are now able to check young people’s ages more easily thanks to the Council’s new e+ proof of age card readers.

Equally beneficial is that young looking Bracknell young people will now be able to easily demonstrate their entitlement to goods and service.

The small readers allow licensees and bar staff to check the age of the person they are serving by inserting their e+ Bracknell Forest smartcard.

The readers have been sent to all business in the borough that sell age restricted items. It is part of the Council’s campaign to tackle underage sales of alcohol, cigarettes and knives.

Young people can also use their e+ cards to easily prove their age and the card may entitle them to discounts - such as child price cinema tickets and cheaper bus fares. The Odeon in Bracknell accepts the e+ card as proof of age.

In October, the legal age for cigarette sales went up from 16 to 18.

The Bracknell Council's trading standards team are currently carrying out regular age checks at retailers to test for underage sales of cigarettes, alcohol and knives, so it will be even more vital for retailers and licensees to ensure that they check ages before they sell these items.

The readers work with the e+ cards that contain the PASS hologram. e+ PASS accredited cards show the name and date of birth printed beneath a clear photograph of the holder.

This means that the e+ card is a valid, reliable and nationally recognised proof of age card.

Best of all, the e+ card is free, unlike other widely accepted proof of age cards and can be used to access services such as libraries and leisure centres.

So far, more than 8,000 PASS accredited e+ cards have been issued to under 21s in Bracknell Forest.

Anyone aged10-21 years can apply for a free e+ PASS card at any Bracknell Forest library or Bracknell Leisure Centre, Edgbarrow and Sandhusrt Sports Centres or Downshire Golf Complex.

Some schools in Bracknell Forest are also ordering e+ PASS cards for their students.

Those applying aged 12 or older need to provide photographic proof of their date of birth (such as a passport or driving licence) or a referee must complete a form on their behalf. Under 16’s need a parent or guardian to complete their e+ PASS card application. For more information, young people should visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/smartcard

Vincent Paliczka, Director of Environment and Leisure, said: “We have had a very positive response about the e+ card readers.

“They help retailers to quickly and easily ascertain the age of their customer so that they know they are within the law when selling goods.

“I urge all licensees to use the readers that we have sent them and I recommend all young people under 21 apply for an e+ card."

Cllr Paul Bettison, Leader of Bracknell Forest, said: “Young people have asked for this card and we’re pleased to be able to offer it to them.

“As well as helping businesses stay above the law, we are pleased that young people can use the cards to their advantage and get discounts that they are entitled to.”

For more information about the readers, call the e+ team on 01344 352000 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/smartcard

Bracknell Forest Borough Council