Alcohol education charity Drinkaware has launched a pilot initiative in a Truro nightclub aimed at helping to keep young people safe on their night out.

The charity joined forces with Devon and Cornwall Police, Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Hogg and Truro Safe, to launch a six month pilot of Drinkaware Club Hosts at The Office nightclub last weekend.

Drinkaware Club Hosts are specially trained staff who work in bars and clubs to reduce drunken anti-social behaviour and help keep people safe.

Working in pairs, the club hosts will have a presence in the venue throughout the night, talking to customers at the start of the evening when a queue is forming, supporting customers who are vulnerable due to alcohol and ensuring guests leave safely after the venue has closed.

Drinkaware is testing the scheme with plans to use the findings ahead of a roll-out of the programme in other parts of the country.

Elaine Hindal, chief executive of Drinkaware, said: “Following a successful pilot in Nottinghamshire last year we are delighted to be launching Drinkaware Club Hosts in the South West of England in collaboration with police and community partnerships across the region.

“We are encouraged by the findings from our initial pilot, that indicated that this initiative can help to reduce the number of young adults experiencing drunken sexual harassment and other negative experiences on a night out. If behaviour isn’t acceptable sober, it isn’t acceptable drunk.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Hogg said: “Tackling alcohol related harm and crime is one of my top priorities in my police and crime plan. This is an important new pilot to help people made vulnerable through alcohol and safeguard them within venues. It will complement and work alongside existing support structures in the night time economy and help keep people safe on their night out.

“I am delighted at the level of engagement and support we have had from local partners. We have been working closely with local authorities, street pastors and the venues to put this pilot together.”

Councillor Geoff Brown, portfolio holder for Communities, said: “We are really pleased to have the opportunity to trial Club Hosts in Truro. They will be working alongside the other support groups coordinated by Truro Safe, and help to ensure that visitors to the clubs and bars have an enjoyable and safe night. It’s particularly good to know that individuals who find themselves separated from their group of friends will have the hosts there to help look after them.”