Proof of Age - Young Scot in South Ayrshire

What Is It?

Young Scot has been available for many years, providing excellent advice and information to young people on matters such as legal rights, health and work issues. Now however, through backing by the Scottish Executive and the British Retail Consortium, a new 'smartened' Young Scot card with a secure 'proof of age' function is being introduced in all 32 Councils in Scotland. Young Scot can now be considered as a 'national' proof of age scheme. Cards issued in South Ayrshire can be used in Glasgow, Edinburgh, or anywhere else in Scotland, and vice versa. Further information about the Young Scot Card and Scheme....

How Will The Card Look?

The card is based on the previous Young Scot card but with significant improvements. It will contain 'smart card' technology which will allow the young person to use the card for library access, leisure facility access, school meals ("cashless" catering") as well as the traditional discounts and features which carrying the card has always provided. For verification purposes the card will also have the young person's photograph and date of birth. However, the significant change to the Young Scot Card from a licensee's point of view is the addition of the proof of age 'PASS' logo.

What Is The 'PASS' Logo?

'PASS' stands for 'proof of age standards scheme' and the PASS hologram logo means that licensees can be confident they are looking at a genuine proof of age card. South Ayrshire Young Scot cards issued from the summer of 2004 onwards have the PASS logo. The PASS scheme has been introduced by the British Retail Consortium and has the support of the Scottish Executive, Scottish Retail Consortium, Trading Standards and Cosla. It is the quality mark for proof of age schemes. More about PASS from the British Retail Consortium.

Who Gets The Card?

The card is free and is issued through South Ayrshire schools to young people between the ages of 12 and 18. All new secondary school pupils will have cards issued to them annually thereafter. The picture on the card will be updated in the fourth year to ensure a realistic likeness. There will also be a facility for young people outwith the school system to receive a card.

Why Is It Necessary?

It is acknowledged that it is very difficult for front-line staff to correctly assess the age of young people who are attempting to buy age restricted products. Traders can face prosecution if they get it wrong and a business may be at risk if lose the licence to sell certain products. A proof of age scheme is a necessary tool to help traders and licensees remain within the law. As part of the scheme, Trading Standards can provide advice and a free pack of materials designed to assist traders in training their staff and to establish a system to help them comply with the laws on age related sales.

Further information : If you require further information on the Young Scot card; if you are a trader who wishes advice, training, or an age related sales pack; or if you wish any further advice on proof of age please telephone (01292) 616262 or contact us via the web site.

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AGE RESTRICTED GOODS & SERVICES