Proof of age scheme
Proof of age for schools
It is commonly reported by members of the public that certain retailers are selling age-restricted products such as cigarettes, alcohol, fireworks and solvents, to young people under the age of 18, contrary to current legislation.
A significant amount of these young people then go on to create anti-social behaviour involving vandalism and robbery, or may be injured or hospitalised whilst under the influence of alcohol or solvents. Some may eventually move onto hard drugs such as Ecstasy and Cocaine. In response to these concerns, Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, Trading Standards and Rowley Regis and Tipton Primary Care Trust have developed the Sandwell Proof of Age scheme.
As part of this initiative, the post of Age-restricted Products Officer (ARPO) has been created within Trading Standards to focus exclusively on this area. This officer visits retailers within the Sandwell borough to ensure that they are complying with the law to prevent under-age sales by asking young people for ID cards if they are unsure of their age. These cards are issued free to Year 11 students (but only in Sandwell schools) and show a colour photograph, the dates the student is 16 and 18 and are to be produced by the students on request from retailers.
Another aspect of the work is promoting the Proof of Age scheme within local communities and schools. A specially arranged interactive 1 hour session on the work of Trading Standards is delivered to Year 10 or 11 pupils, who take part in a quiz on age-restricted products and are able to view seized goods to find out if they can spot a fake!
If you would like more information on the Scheme or would like to book a talk at your school, please contact Maureen Thompson (ARPO) at Sandwell Trading Standards by any of the following methods
Tel: 0121 569 6577
Fax: 0121 569 6599
Email: maureen_thompson@sandwell.gov.uk
Other Resources for Schools
Talking Shop To many young people, the expressions "consumer education" and "consumer rights" can sound formal and pompous. What has to be communicated to young people is that Trading Standards and consumer education is all about money - their money! Now "talkingshop" brings the whole subject to life, through real-time role play via the internet. It's interactive, up-to-date, and fun.
You will find materials, advice and suggestions designed to engage children's interest in healthy food choices, keeping active and increasing fruit and veg consumption. Plus there is information on how these materials fit with the school curriculum. There are also links to our informative and challenging games and quizzes, plus advice on healthy eating for children and young people.
- Food Standards Agency - Eat well, be well - eatwell
- BBC - Watchdog Consumer advice
- National Curriculum The national curriculum site for England
- Sandwell LEA Education and Learning
- need2know - advice on student life, relationships, travel and more!
- Money Make Sense - Financial Literacy for students, young people, teachers
Interested in a career in Trading Standards?
More information about a career is available on these sites.