The Secret Words Keeping Birmingham Safe
Following several violent incidents against women in recent weeks, many Birmingham residents feel increasingly anxious about their safety during nights out. However, a discreet safety initiative operating across city centre venues provides crucial protection for those feeling vulnerable or threatened.
What Is 'Ask for Angela'?
'Ask for Angela' represents a secret code developed by a non-profit charity that supports venues in maintaining customer safety. When someone asks staff for 'Angela,' employees immediately understand the person requires assistance and may be in a distressing situation.
The scheme operates subtly through posters displayed on toilet doors within participating establishments. Patrons can identify supporting venues through these discreet signs and approach any staff member, from bartenders to security personnel.
You can mention Angela in whatever way feels most natural, whether saying 'I need to speak with Angela' or 'Has Angela been working tonight?' The important aspect is using the name 'Angela' to trigger the trained response from staff.
Birmingham's Successful Implementation
Reassuringly for Birmingham residents, all city centre bars implementing the Ask for Angela scheme achieved 100% success rates during recent mystery customer testing. The tested venues included Albert Schloss, The Dragon Inn Wetherspoons, Slug and Lettuce at Brindley Place, and Mama Roux's in Digbeth.
While participation remains voluntary, numerous major pub companies have embraced the initiative. The UK's largest pub operator, Stonegate Group - which owns popular chains including Slug and Lettuce, Walkabout, and Be at One - along with Wetherspoons, have trained their staff to respond appropriately.
The charity behind the scheme has developed comprehensive workbooks for hospitality staff, containing detailed guidance on protecting individuals who use the secret code.
What Happens When You Ask for Angela
When someone requests Angela, staff receive training to immediately escort the person to a secure location and notify management. They then present various options to help the individual feel safe again, which may include:
- Asking the person causing distress to leave the premises
- Arranging a taxi or safe transport home
- Contacting friends or family members
- Providing a quiet space until the person feels comfortable
West Midlands Police fully endorse the Ask for Angela initiative and encourage members of the public to use it when feeling 'uneasy' during nights out. The police force has additionally deployed extra officers to patrol busy nightlife areas during peak times to enhance public safety.
The scheme originated in 2016 through Hayley Crawford, Substance Misuse and Sexual Violence Prevention Strategic Coordinator for Lincolnshire County Council. It was created in memory of Angela Phillips, a woman tragically killed by her husband in 2012.
Although initially developed in response to violence against women, the scheme assists anyone feeling unsafe or threatened in licensed venues. In these troubling times of increased safety concerns, Ask for Angela provides a vital lifeline for vulnerable patrons.
Regarding drink spiking awareness, West Midlands Police emphasise that spiking constitutes a serious criminal offense with severe consequences. The charity Victim Support stands ready to assist anyone struggling to cope after being spiked, offering 24/7 support on 0808 1689 111.
