In today’s world, personal safety is a top priority for many, particularly when socialising or enjoying a night out. The Ask for Angela scheme, which has been adopted by various cities across the UK, provides a discreet and effective way for individuals to seek help in potentially dangerous or uncomfortable situations. This initiative has been in place within Gloucester for a several years, empowering people to feel safe and supported when they need it most. Gloucester Licensed Victuallers Association (LVA), was instrumental in adopting and initiating the scheme in Gloucester and still is a leading ambassador of the campaign.
What is the Ask for Angela Scheme?
The Ask for Angela scheme is a simple yet powerful concept designed to help individuals, particularly those on a night out, who may find themselves in unsafe or uncomfortable situations. Whether you’re out at a bar, restaurant, or nightclub, if you’re feeling threatened or need assistance, you can approach a staff member and simply ask to speak to “Angela.”
When you ask for “Angela,” staff are trained to recognise that you may be in distress and need help. The staff will then discreetly offer you support, whether that’s arranging a safe way home, contacting a friend or relative, or even calling the authorities if necessary. The beauty of the scheme is its simplicity—it allows people to ask for help without needing to directly explain their situation, making it particularly useful in situations where a person feels vulnerable or threatened.
How Does it Work in Gloucester?
In Gloucester, the Ask for Angela scheme has been adopted at many participating venues, including bars, clubs, restaurants, and other social spots. These establishments have committed to providing a safe environment for customers, especially during busy nights out.
Staff members at these venues are trained to recognize the “Ask for Angela” code and respond appropriately. When you ask for Angela, they will offer discreet support, ensuring that you can leave safely, get the help you need, or contact a trusted person. In addition to offering physical assistance, staff may also assist in situations of harassment, domestic abuse, or other concerns by providing a calm, non-judgmental space for individuals to talk.
The Importance of Ask for Angela in Gloucester
The Ask for Angela scheme is vital in creating a safer environment for everyone, particularly in Gloucester’s bustling social scene. As with many cities, Gloucester has a vibrant nightlife, and while most people enjoy their nights out safely, incidents of harassment, unwanted attention, or even physical harm can still occur. The Ask for Angela scheme addresses these issues by providing a simple, safe way for people to access help in a discreet and non-confrontational way.
This initiative also empowers individuals to take control of their own safety. Whether you’re with friends or on your own, knowing that you have a trusted and accessible support system if needed can significantly reduce anxiety and increase confidence when going out. It allows people to enjoy their time in Gloucester’s nightlife without fear, knowing that help is readily available should they need it.
It is one of the many schemes that are part of the city’s Purple Flag accreditation.
Who Can Use the Ask for Angela Scheme?
The Ask for Angela scheme is available to everyone, regardless of gender, age, or background. While it is particularly aimed at individuals who may feel vulnerable it is open to anyone who might feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or threatened in any situation.
The scheme is also helpful for those who may be experiencing harassment or witnessing inappropriate behaviour and are unsure how to address it. Asking for Angela allows individuals to seek help for themselves or others without drawing attention or escalating the situation.
Raising Awareness and Supporting the Scheme
In Gloucester, the success of the Ask for Angela scheme depends on widespread awareness and participation. Local venues, including bars, pubs, clubs, and other establishments, are encouraged to sign up, refresh and adopt in the initiative. The more venues that are involved, the safer Gloucester becomes for everyone.
The local community and organisations can also support the initiative by spreading the word. Awareness campaigns, social media posts, and educational programs can all help ensure that people know about the scheme and how it works. Encouraging local businesses to take part and ensuring their staff is properly trained to handle situations where “Ask for Angela” is used is key to making this scheme a success.
What Are the Benefits of the Scheme?
1. Increased Safety: The primary benefit of the Ask for Angela scheme is enhanced personal safety. It offers a discreet way for individuals to ask for help when they feel threatened or uncomfortable, making it easier for people to enjoy their time out without fear of harm.
2. Confidence and Empowerment: By providing an easy, non-confrontational way to seek help, the scheme empowers individuals to take control of their own safety and well-being. It offers a sense of confidence, knowing that there is support available if needed.
3. Prevention of Harassment and Abuse: The scheme can help reduce incidents of harassment, unwanted attention, or potential abuse. It provides a tool for addressing problematic situations before they escalate, allowing individuals to seek help before things get worse.
4. Community Support: The Ask for Angela scheme fosters a sense of community and mutual support. It encourages businesses and individuals to look out for one another, helping to build safer and more connected communities.
The Ask for Angela scheme is an essential initiative in Gloucester, providing a vital safety net for individuals enjoying a night out in the city. Its discreet and simple approach to safety empowers people to seek help when they need it most, reducing the risk of harassment, abuse, and other dangerous situations. By supporting the scheme, venues, businesses, and the community at large can help make Gloucester a safer place for everyone.
Whether you’re out with friends, on a date, or simply enjoying a night on the town, remember—if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, all you need to do is Ask for Angela.
Businesses can download an Ask for Angela poster here:
A4 Venue Poster and A3 Back Office Poster
