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Broadstairs Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) has been recognised for its work in reducing underage drinking and tackling alcohol-related anti-social behaviour. The CAP was named CAP+ of the Year at a ceremony in Central London.
CAPs are community-led partnerships which bring together local police, councils, schools, retailers, and community groups. Their primary goal is to reduce underage alcohol consumption and the resulting harms, improving health and well-being, and enhancing the wider community.
Broadstairs has been part of the CAP network since 2017, but during the past 12 months partners have successfully reinvigorated the partnership through stronger multi-agency engagement and a renewed commitment to protecting young people and supporting the community. The results have been significant, particularly during a challenging summer period when the town experienced increased anti-social behaviour linked to alcohol consumption among visiting young people.
In response, local partners, including Kent Trading Standards, Kent Police, Thanet District Council, schools and community organisations worked together to engage directly with young people, schools and retailers while also reviewing alcohol supply routes within the town. As a result anti-social behaviour incidents in the town and beach areas reduced significantly, demonstrating the impact of coordinated enforcement and prevention work.
Alongside enforcement action, partners delivered a wide programme of engagement and education initiatives. A schools roadshow reached at least 400 students, providing advice and support around alcohol harm and safer decision-making. Additional outreach events in parks and community spaces, alongside a popular Pickleball tournament, engaged hundreds more young people in positive activities, offering alternatives to alcohol-related risk-taking.
Kent Trading Standards Operations Manager Jim Whiddett said: "It's fantastic the Broadstairs Community Alcohol Partnership, including the contribution of Trading Standards officers, has been nationally recognised and honoured in this way. Working together, we've been able to significantly reduce under-age alcohol sales which fuel anti-social behaviour.
"As well as helping to keep young people and the local community safe, the partnership's coordinated enforcement and prevention efforts supports legitimate businesses. It also protects Broadstairs' much-valued tourism trade and ensures the town remains the perfect place for a seaside holiday."
Commenting on the award, CAP Director Kate Winstanley said: “Broadstairs CAP shows how strong partnership working and decisive action can quickly improve community safety and protect young people from alcohol-related harm. By combining education, engagement and responsible retail action, partners have made a real difference in a very challenging situation. Their commitment to collaboration and practical solutions makes Broadstairs a deserving recipient of the CAP+ award.”
The CAP team will receive their award at a ceremony held in the House of Commons on 2nd March 2026.
