Just 'Ask for Angela': How This Codeword Seeks To Safeguard Women

The "Ask for Angela" initiative is a globally recognised safety scheme designed to support individuals feeling unsafe or vulnerable in social settings such as bars, clubs, or dates. Launched as a discreet way to seek help, this scheme has garnered widespread attention for its impact on public safety. However, its implementation and effectiveness have faced scrutiny, highlighting the need for improvements to ensure its success.

Origins and Purpose

Ask for Angela was created by Hayley Crawford, a District Commander for Bassetlaw and a former Sexual Violence Prevention Lead in Lincolnshire, UK. Named after Angela Crompton, who tragically lost her life to domestic violence, the initiative empowers individuals to seek help discreetly by using the code phrase "Ask for Angela." Staff trained in vulnerability management respond by offering assistance, such as calling security, providing a safe space, or facilitating an unnoticed exit.

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The scheme aims to combat alarming statistics:

• 97% of women aged 18–24 and 80% of all women report experiencing sexual harassment in public spaces (UN Women UK).

• 53% of women have faced sexual harassment in pubs, clubs, or bars (YouGov).

• One in five LGBTQ+ individuals report hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (Stonewall).

Impact on Public Safety

"Ask for Angela" enhances safety in participating venues by fostering a secure environment, thereby improving perceptions of the nightlife economy. A YouGov survey revealed: 49% of people and 63% of women are more likely to frequent venues with safety measures like this initiative.

This non-profit scheme reinvests all funds from donations and brand partnerships into enhancing safety measures and developing new initiatives. Its success has inspired global adoption, with Toronto, Canada, being the latest city to implement it.

Recognition and Challenges

Hayley Crawford’s efforts earned her a National Pubwatch Award at the House of Lords in 2022. Despite its noble intent, "Ask for Angela" has faced challenges. 

The scheme’s publicity, including online posters, undermines its confidentiality. This broad awareness could alert potential predators, jeopardising its effectiveness. Reports indicate that many staff members are unaware of or untrained in the scheme, leading to instances where individuals seeking help were ignored, mocked, or misunderstood. Investigations, such as BBC’s undercover research, revealed that staff in more than half of London venues, including major chains like Greene King and JD Wetherspoon, failed to recognise the code phrase.

Enhancing Effectiveness

To address these gaps, several measures are necessary. The process of seeking help should be redesigned to maintain secrecy, reducing the risk of drawing attention from potential perpetrators. Regular, mandatory training for all staff in participating venues can ensure consistent understanding and implementation of the scheme. Establishing oversight mechanisms for participating venues will ensure adherence to the scheme’s guidelines.

A Step Forward, But Not Enough

While "Ask for Angela" is a commendable initiative, its current implementation falls short for those most at risk. For vulnerable individuals, the courage to seek help often comes amidst overwhelming fear and anxiety. Effective training, confidentiality, and venue accountability are critical for the scheme to fulfill its promise as a lifeline for safety.

"Ask for Angela" has laid the groundwork for creating safer public spaces, especially for women and LGBTQ+ individuals. However, its long-term success depends on addressing its shortcomings and ensuring consistent, confidential, and empathetic support for those in need. With continued efforts, this initiative can evolve into a robust tool for fostering safety and trust in nightlife environments worldwide.