Anyone who feels uncomfortable when out and about can get help quickly if they feel unsafe.
Over the years, a number of campaigns have been launched to allow people to discreetly mention a code word to a member of staff to alert them of their situation.
Anyone who feels uncomfortable, vulnerable or threatened can approach a member of staff wherever they are, using the special code word, which indicates that they require help or support.
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Whether you are on a date that's not going to plan, are feeling threatened or harassed, or are in an abusive situation, there is help out there.
The code word is dependant on where you are and your situation. For example, the Ask for Angela campaign aims to prevent and reduce sexual violence and vulnerability in the hospitality industry.
The Ask for ANI scheme is to allow victims of domestic abuse access support from their local pharmacy.
Both schemes have already picked up in Liverpool, with many people accessing help and support in this way.
Ask for Angela
Bars, restaurant, taxi companies and security staff right across the Liverpool City Region are taking part in this initiative.
The Ask for Angela code-phrase will alert trained staff that the person is in need of support and assistance. This might be in the form of calling them a taxi, reuniting them with a friend or calling security and/or the police.
Simply go up to a member of bar staff or security and ask for Angela.
This scheme has recently launched in Knowsley and Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, said: "Ensuring the safety of our residents is a major priority for us and something we are continually working towards. Sadly, we know that women and girls in particular can feel vulnerable and at risk of harm.
"Often that is even more so the case at night when they may be out and about socialising in our town centres and communities."
Ask for ANI
Asking for ANI works in a very similar way to Ask for Angela, the only difference is this code word is for pharmacies.
The Ask for ANI (Action Needed Immediately) codeword scheme has been developed to allow victims of domestic abuse to access support from the safety of their local pharmacy.
By asking staff for ANI, this alerts staff that the victim needs an emergency police response or needs help to contact a domestic abuse specialist support service.
When a victim uses the codeword or asks for help, the member of staff will ask them to accompany them to another room where they will check if there is an immediate danger.
If emergency help is not needed, staff will assist them to contact a local support service.
This scheme is voluntary and all participating pharmacies, including all Boots stores, will display posters to show victims they can assist.
Merseyside’s Police Commissioner Jane Kennedy previously said: “This is a very welcome and simple idea which has the ability to make a huge difference for people who can be at great risk.
“I want those suffering from domestic abuse to know they are not alone and that help and support is available. I will be working with my community safety partners to raise awareness of the ‘Ask for ANI’ scheme to ensure victims know they can use the codeword to access emergency support."
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