Proof of Age Card Scheme

Rotherham Community Safety & Advice Centre operates a locally recognised Proof of Age Card Scheme, enabling young people an alternative to using valuable documents as identification.

The scheme aims to benefit local communities by reducing the opportunities for underage drinking and the crime & disorder that result from this.

Young People

Why do I need a Proof of Age Card?

Age restrictions apply to many local leisure activities. For example, it is illegal for under 18s to buy alcohol and for licensed retailers to sell alcohol to under 18s. Age restrictions also apply to other activities like watching a film or hiring a video.

It is becoming more common for pubs, clubs and off- licenses, supermarkets, cinemas and video shops to ask for proof of age where a young person looks under 21. The idea is that a 16 or 17 year old would find it more difficult to pass for 21 than they would to pass for 18. Therfore, even if you are 19, 20 or 21 (or even older if you are lucky enough to look loads younger than you are!) you may be asked to prove your age.

Whats the problem with taking out my Passport and Driving License for ID?

Identity Fraud is major problem it can take years to realise you have been a victim of this crime and whilst you have been unaware someone has been living with your identity maybe opening bank accounts, taking expensive holidays, committing other crimes and buying items on credit. In order to prove their age many young people take valuable documents out and about with them, such as passports, driving licenses and birth certificates. If these documents are lost or stolen, there is a risk that your documents could be used fraudulently by others. Not to mention the expense to you to replace a lost passport or Driving License.

How do I get a Proof of Age Card?

RCSAC Proof of Age Cards are only issued on premises this means that you will need to personally come to the Centre on Howard Street to have the card issued. You will need to bring with you an existing form of identification for example a passport or a driving license for us to issue you with a card. If you do not have a passprt or driving license there are alternative forms of identification we will except. Use the link below to download the POA application form and guidence notes for more information on this. If you need any additional information you can call into the Centre on Howard Street or telephone us with your enquiry.