Venues in Stone were among 26 tested by Staffordshire Police this summer to see whether staff knew how to respond when someone asked for “Angela”.
Officers carried out test visits during June and July in Stone, Stafford, Cannock, Rugeley, Tamworth and Burton upon Trent as part of the national Ask for Angela safeguarding campaign.
Across all six areas, 24 of the 26 venues responded appropriately, with staff recognising the phrase and taking action to support and safeguard the person asking for help.
The other two venues were given advice and guidance by officers to improve their understanding of the scheme.
Staffordshire Police has not provided a breakdown showing how many of the venues tested were in Stone, or where the two venues which did not respond appropriately were located.
Ask for Angela provides a discreet way for someone who feels unsafe or vulnerable to seek help from staff at a participating venue. Asking for “Angela” signals that support is needed without the person having to explain their situation publicly.
Depending on the circumstances, trained staff may help someone leave a venue, support them while they remain there, contact security or escalate the situation if necessary.
The initiative is available to anyone who needs support, although Staffordshire Police said its safeguarding work has a particular focus on women and girls.
Detective Inspector Cat Holland, from Staffordshire Police’s public protection unit, took part in the testing alongside DC Kara Evans and DC Lily Rowley.
DI Holland said
“These results demonstrate the strong commitment shown by the vast majority of venues in helping to create safer environments for customers.
“Following the tests, officers will work closely with the venues identified as non-compliant, providing additional support, guidance and awareness training to ensure they are fully informed about the scheme and equipped to respond effectively to any future safeguarding concerns.”
Staffordshire Police has previously supported Ask for Angela through local and national campaign materials and vulnerability training for venues.
More information about how Ask for Angela works, including information for venues, is available through the national campaign. Ask for Angela website
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